In a recent development concerning the Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement (A-EU FTA), representatives from the Australia-EU Red Meat Market Access Task Force joined Trade Minister Don Farrell in Osaka, Japan, in October 2023. This meeting, aimed at finalising the FTA, unfortunately, did not yield the desired progress, as stated by Minister Farrell.
Despite this setback, negotiations are set to continue, with hopes of eventually reaching an agreement beneficial to both parties.
The red meat industry, a key sector in these negotiations, remains committed to the FTA. The industry’s goal is to secure substantial increases in market access for Australian beef and sheepmeat into the EU.
Andrew McDonald, Chair of the Taskforce, emphasised the compelling nature of Australia’s case for significant trade reform. He highlighted the EU’s status as one of the world’s largest meat consumers, which necessitates ongoing imports to meet demand.
McDonald pointed out that the current trading relationship between Australia and the EU, grounded in shared values, focuses on supplying high-quality red meat products to meet EU consumer demand.
However, he noted that Australia’s ability to service this market is significantly hindered by the EU’s maintenance of outdated, inequitable quotas, and high tariffs. These restrictions, largely unchanged for nearly 50 years, have been further eroded during the FTA negotiations, with competitors gaining improved market access.
The Australian red meat industry, a staunch advocate for trade reform, is actively working with the Australian and EU negotiating teams. The industry sees the FTA negotiations as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance market access and is determined to ensure its position is communicated and understood in these discussions.
