On 24 March 2026, EU and Australia concluded negotiations for a new-generation free trade agreement.
President Ursula von der Leyen said: “The EU and Australia may be geographically far apart but we couldn’t be closer in terms of how we see the world. With these dynamic new partnerships on security and defence, as well as trade, we are moving even closer together. These agreements put in place lasting, trust-based structures to support peace and security through strength; driving prosperity through rules-based trade, and working together to uphold global institutions. We are committed to building a cleaner, more digital future for our citizens, workers and businesses. And we are sending a strong signal to the rest of the world that friendship and cooperation is what matters most in times of turbulence.” (See Press Release EU and Australia strengthen relations with Security and Defence Partnership and Trade Agreement, 24 March 2026)
Text of the agreement in principle (the text will be final upon signature)
