On 24th March, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, welcomed the announcement that the European Union and Australia have concluded negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Marking 80 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Australia, the Minister highlighted that the agreement would reduce tariffs across multiple sectors, open the Australian services market to the EU, and provide significant opportunities for Irish exporters.
Minister McEntee emphasised the importance of diversifying markets amid global economic uncertainty, noting that EU exports to Australia are expected to rise by 33% over the next decade, with Irish firms at the forefront of this. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will continue to work closely with the European Commission to ensure Irish interests, including agriculture, are protected as the FTA is finalised.
Dublin Chamber welcomes the agreement and supports its potential to strengthen Ireland’s trade relationships and market diversification. The Chamber sees improved access to a stable market such as Australia as an important opportunity for Dublin-based businesses to grow, invest, and establish long-term partnerships. Clear and predictable trade rules, reduced administrative burdens, and closer regulatory cooperation will help exporters maximise the benefits of this agreement and enhance the competitiveness and resilience of Irish businesses in the global marketplace.
For more on the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement, see here.