The tech sector in Wales is creating new jobs at a rate higher than anywhere else in the UK.
The sector, where there are particular strengths in fintech and cyber security, has seen a 83% rise in employment since 2010, according to the Office for National Statistics.
The rise in Wales was the greatest of any UK nation or region of the UK, with the south west of England second with a rise of 41% since 2010.
Overall the number of jobs in the UK tech sector has risen by 38% since 2010.
On average, 400 more tech sector jobs have been created each month in Wales over the last five years.
The tech sector in Wales now employs 53,000 .
The statistics also follow recent recognition of Wales – by the UK entrepreneur network Tech Nation – as a future hotspot for digital and financial technologies companies, with significant investment and a variety of start-ups arriving in the country over the last 5 years.
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and Minister for Women and Equalities, Amber Rudd said: "It is fantastic to see that Wales’ booming tech sector is able to provide young people with so many opportunities in such an important, future-facing industry.
“People pursuing a career in Wales’ tech sector have never been better placed and these figures are evidence of the Government’s dedication to making sure people have the necessary skills to pursue their career of choice and, ultimately, the ability to safeguard their future.”
Secretary of State for Wales, Alun Cairns said: “Wales makes a significant contribution to the unique makeup of the UK’s tech industry particularly in fintech, artificial intelligence and cyber security in which Welsh companies such as Amplyfi are leading the way.
“These impressive statistics demonstrate that the growing Welsh tech sector is creating more highly paid, skilled employment opportunities for people across Wales.
"With this exceptionally high employment rate and a UK Government that is committed to supporting the sector, I am sure that Wales will continue to attract world class talent, enabling the tech sector here to become a world leader.”
The sector includes:
- Publishing activities, including software publishing
- Motion picture and sound recording activities
- Radio and TV broadcasting and programming activities
- Telecommunication activities
- Information technology activities
- Other information service activities
