The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has said sustained, long-term investment in Trading Standards services is essential to protect communities, support legitimate businesses and maintain confidence in the Welsh marketplace.
The statement follows the publication of Trading Standards Wales’ Manifesto 2026, which sets out priorities for the next Senedd term and highlights the growing demands facing local authority Trading Standards services in an increasingly complex and digital economy.
Published alongside the Manifesto, the Impacts & Outcomes Report 2024-25 sets out the difference Trading Standards teams have made across Wales over the past year, from tackling illegal and unsafe trading practices to protecting people in their homes and communities.
The WLGA said the report underlines the vital role councils play in delivering consumer protection, product safety, animal health and welfare and enforcement, often in challenging circumstances and with rising expectations placed on local authority services.
The WLGA said the outcomes highlighted in the report demonstrate why maintaining skills, capacity and expertise within Trading Standards services matters, particularly as councils continue to face significant financial pressures and workforce challenges.
The Association will continue to work with Trading Standards services across Wales and Welsh Government to ensure the priorities set out in the Manifesto help inform future policy discussions and funding decisions ahead of the 2026 Senedd elections.
Councillor Steve Thomas, WLGA Spokesperson for Regulatory and Frontline Services, said:
“Trading Standards services sit at the frontline of community protection in Wales. Every day, council officers are safeguarding consumers, supporting fair businesses, and enforcing vital legislation that underpins public confidence and economic resilience.
“The Trading Standards Wales Manifesto 2026 provides a timely and authoritative statement of what is needed to sustain this small, yet essential local government service. The WLGA fully supports its call for sustainable investment, workforce development, and stronger national and regional partnerships to ensure Trading Standards can continue to meet both current and future challenges.”