Statement on AU-EU Free Trade Agreement

I came to Osaka with the intention to finalise a free trade agreement with the European Union.

Since I became Trade Minister, I have been to Europe three times to progress a deal that benefits Australia’s national interest.

My job as Australia’s Trade Minister is to get the best deal that we can for our producers, our businesses, our workers, and our consumers.

Unfortunately we have not been able to make progress.

Negotiations will continue, and I am hopeful that one day we will sign a deal that benefits both Australia and our European friends.

I would like to thank my European counterparts, including Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis for their work, and especially Australia’s talented negotiating team lead by Alison Burrows.