Home / Business and Economy / EU-Australia Trade Talks Reach Final Stretch
EU-Australia Trade Talks Reach Final Stretch
24 Mar
Summary
- EU and Australia are in the final stages of trade pact negotiations.
- Key sticking points include agricultural access and luxury car taxes.
- The trade deal aims to boost EU exports and secure critical raw materials.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has arrived in Australia for crucial trade discussions, signaling that a long-negotiated trade pact is entering its "last mile." The visit, including meetings with Governor-General Sam Mostyn and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, underscores the mutual interest in establishing a new trade framework.
Negotiations are intensely focused on resolving final details, with agricultural access for Australian lamb and beef and the EU's concerns regarding Australia's luxury car tax representing significant hurdles. The European Union seeks greater access to Australia's critical raw materials, while Australia aims to boost exports and secure new trade partnerships.
This potential trade accord comes as both the EU and Australia navigate global energy vulnerabilities, heightened by the conflict in the Middle East. A deal could significantly increase EU exports to Australia and is expected to add billions to Australia's trade volume, potentially making the EU its second-largest trading partner.




