Written question WQ86111

The Programme for Government sets out a commitment to consider new ways to grow our tax base and explore the levers and conditions that will make more people and businesses feel confident about planning their future in Wales, supporting job creation and more dynamic local economies.

We set out our vision of what makes Wales an attractive place to live, work, study and invest at the economic summit last year.

Among the programmes that are helping achieve this, is the Sêr Cymru programme. Sêr Cymru aims to facilitate growth in the capability, quality and impact of scientific research within Universities in Wales, thus attracting senior academics and their industry partners, to base themselves in Wales. By 2022, Sêr Cymru had appointed 12 research chairs and 125 fellows.

Through the International Strategy, the Welsh Government is committed to growing the Welsh Economy by engaging with international businesses and championing Wales as an investment location. Through our Export Action Plan, we also support Welsh companies who want to grow their business through international trade. All of this supports our commitment to develop a diverse, high-tech, high-value modern economy in Wales with a highly paid and skilled workforce.

Recognising the risks posed to the Welsh tax base by the current economic environment and the long-term demographic challenges, we continue to take wide-ranging actions to strengthen our tax base and make Wales an attractive place to live, study, work and invest.