The port industry gathered in Pembrokeshire recently, as Milford Haven Port Authority became the first Welsh host of the annual British Ports Association conference.

Andrew Davies, Minister for Finance and Public Service Delivery at the Welsh Assembly Government, opened the event, acknowledging the vital role of British ports in contributing to the national economy.

It was highlighted that £60 million worth of trade comes through Welsh ports and that a staggering 95 per cent of the UK's imports and exports are handled by the industry.

Chief executive of Milford Haven Port Authority, Ted Sangster is delighted that industry colleagues have been given the opportunity to visit Pembrokeshire, saying: "As a port that impacts not only on the local area, but on the whole UK's economy, we are delighted to have hosted this conference.

"As well as debating a wide range of issues, delegates have seen first-hand how large scale port operations can operate comfortably alongside some of the most scenic and environmentally valued countryside in Wales," he said.

Held at Pembrokeshire's new tourism destination Bluestone, the event attracted delegates from across the UK and Europe.

A well-rounded agenda allowed for collective debate on some of the industry's most important challenges, including impending legislation and the current economic climate. Topics included the Marine Bill, port safety and security issues, the coastal environment and new planning guidance for British ports.

Presentations were given by key industry players such as the Marine Accident Investigation Board, the Chamber of Shipping, the Yacht Harbour Association and Trinity House.

During the week-long event, additional forums and seminars were also staged, including a highly acclaimed meeting of Cruise delegates, who discussed the continued growth of the niche market in the UK.

Closing the conference, the First Minister for Wales Rhodri Morgan, told delegates that ports were already a key part of the UK supply chain and would be even more important in the future. Whereas growth in the UK economy has been led by the financial services industry for the past 10 years, this would not be the case over the next 10 years. The energy sector and the production sector would have to lead the way. That would make UK ports more important, with Welsh ports being particularly important due to the switch of energy sources from the North Sea towards deep-water import terminals such as Milford.

Appreciative of the Welsh Assembly's support, Ted echoed the First Minister's comments adding that "being a critical part of the whole supply chain, our industry depends on the effectiveness of a political framework that supports the market approach, acknowledges the operational requirements and places these alongside other social and environmental demands.

"The endorsement of this by both the Minister for Finance and the First Minister, indicates that such a balance already exists in Wales, and indeed was evidenced by a number of discussions at the conference as also being in place across the rest of the UK."