MEP urges EU to resume trade talks with Australia

Seán Kelly MEP
Source: European Parliament
Seán Kelly MEP Source: European Parliament

MEP for Ireland South Seán Kelly has called on the European Commission to relaunch negotiations with Australia on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The MEP is chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with Australia and New Zealand, and has written to Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič on the trade agreement.

The EU-Australia FTA negotiations stalled in late 2023 due to disputes over agricultural market access and geographical indications.

Kelly has urged the European Commission to return to the table with a renewed commitment to finding solutions. He said that the deal is "in both sides’ strategic and economic interests".

“Both sides share common values, and this agreement would strengthen our partnership at a crucial time for global trade. Walking away from negotiations is not an option—we need to find a way forward," the MEP said.

“With growing geopolitical uncertainty, a strong and stable economic partnership with Australia would reinforce the EU’s presence in the Indo-Pacific and provide much-needed trade diversification.

"Strengthening ties with Australia is also a direct investment in economic resilience, reducing reliance on any single market and ensuring the EU remains a global leader in trade," Kelly added.

Kelly also highlighted the "importance" of the agreement in securing access to raw materials, building on the EU-Australia Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024.

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“Australia is a key player in the supply of sustainable critical and strategic minerals. An FTA would provide the framework for a reliable, ethical, and transparent trade partnership—essential for Europe’s green and digital transitions,” he said.

The MEP also pointed to broader economic benefits, arguing that businesses on both sides would gain access to new opportunities in sectors ranging from agriculture to technology and clean energy.

“It would open up new markets, create jobs, and strengthen Europe’s position as a reliable global trading partner. We need compromise, leadership, and ambition to get this over the line,” Kelly said.

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