Talks, which began in 2018, have gained new momentum amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing global trade uncertainty. During European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Canberra, both sides are expected to move closer to finalising the agreement.
Negotiations effectively broke down in 2023 due to disagreements over agricultural market access, particularly EU meat import quotas and protections for European farmers. Australia is pushing for larger quotas for its meat exports, while the EU seeks lower tariffs on industrial goods, especially cars, as well as access to Australia’s critical raw materials.
Despite the complexity of the negotiations, both sides have shown willingness to compromise. Australia expects the agreement to support economic growth and job creation, while the EU views it as a tool to strengthen its global trade position.
In 2025, total goods trade between the EU and Australia reached €47.2 billion, with a €26.5 billion surplus in favour of the EU. Trade in services is also significant and similarly shows an EU surplus.
Analysts note that further progress will largely depend on reaching a compromise on agricultural market access, particularly in the meat sector.
PigUA.info based on materials from thepigsite.com