Australia-Hong Kong Free Trade Agreement

The Turnbull Government is taking the first steps toward a free trade agreement (FTA) with Hong Kong. Today I announce we are calling for public submissions to the prospective FTA.

An FTA with Hong Kong would complement our FTA with China and further integrate the Australian economy with Asia.

Concluding an FTA with Hong Kong would strengthen our relationship with one of our most significant trading partners.

Hong Kong is Australia's leading business base in East Asia. More than 600 Australian businesses have a major presence there.

Hong Kong was Australia's eighth largest export market, worth $11 billion last financial year. Overall Hong Kong was Australia's 12th largest trading partner, with total two-way trade in goods and services worth $15.3 billion.

The Turnbull Government is pursuing an ambitious trade agenda and more trade agreements to create more export opportunities for Australian businesses. More exports will create more Australian jobs.

I invite stakeholders to provide their views on the potential opportunities and impacts of an FTA with Hong Kong. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide written submissions, particularly focusing on specific impediments to trade and investment that an Australia-Hong Kong FTA could address. Further information on how to make a submission is available at www.dfat.gov.au/a-hkfta