In Osaka (Japan), efforts are underway to address the concerns of Australian farmers. They feel that they cannot sell enough of their products completely free of tariffs and quotas on the EU market.
The current EU offer would put Australian farmers at a significant disadvantage compared to farmers from countries like Canada, New Zealand, or South America. They see it as a step backward rather than a step forward. There are – according to them – also no signs that the EU is willing to present “an economically sensible agreement.”
Australian farmers fear that the trade agreement will bring severe restrictions in their own country, including limiting the rights for products such as feta and prosecco. There is also concern that the EU wants to impose “impractical agricultural requirements.”
Australian agriculture is quite sustainable, but many production systems differ from those in the EU. Australian farmers are wary of European environmental standards. “We do not want European systems imposed on us that make no sense for the Australian environment. We want a trade agreement with the EU, but not at any cost,” stresses the Australian Farmers’ Federation (NFF).
The Australian agricultural sector has repeatedly emphasized that this is a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to conclude a meaningful free trade agreement with the European Union. They see it as a chance to expand their export opportunities and tap new markets. However, farmers stress they will not settle for an empty shell.
European and Australian negotiators face the challenge of finding a balance between the interests of both parties. The European Union has its own priorities and interests in the trade talks, and it is important to reach a compromise acceptable to both sides. It is a complex process involving numerous economic and political factors.
It is clear that the talks between the European Union and Australia are of great importance for the future trade relationship between both parties. The outcome of these negotiations will have major consequences for the agricultural and livestock sectors in Australia and the European market.