Agricultural workers across Wales could receive higher minimum wages from April under proposals being considered by the Welsh Government.

The independent Agricultural Advisory Panel for Wales has launched a consultation on new pay rates and employment conditions for farm workers, including changes to sick pay and bereavement leave.

Under the proposals, the minimum hourly rate for agricultural workers aged 21 and over in Grade B would rise from £12.71 to £13.62, an increase of 91p.

Advanced workers would receive at least £14.03 an hour, up from £13.48, while senior agricultural workers would see their minimum rate increase from £14.79 to £15.39.

For agricultural managers, the proposed minimum would rise from £16.23 to £16.89 an hour.

Minimum rates for workers aged 16 and 17 would rise from £8 to £8.31, with those aged 18 to 20 moving from £10.85 to £11.27.

It also proposes increases in allowances for night work, working dogs and accommodation, alongside a birth and adoption grant.

The panel, which includes representatives of farming unions, Unite and independent members, reviews agricultural pay and conditions annually before making recommendations to Welsh ministers.

It says rising living costs, pressures on farm businesses and difficulties recruiting seasonal and skilled workers are among the factors considered when setting rates.

Separate proposals would allow eligible agricultural workers to receive agricultural sick pay from their first day of absence, removing an existing three-day waiting period for shorter illnesses.

The consultation also examines changes to bereavement leave provisions to bring them into line with wider employment legislation.

If approved, the new rates would take effect on 1 April 2027, but they remain proposals rather than confirmed increases.

The panel is asking farmers, employees and other interested parties to comment on how the changes could affect wages, recruitment and the viability of agricultural businesses across Wales.