EU and Australia move closer to major trade deal
EU and Australia Near €49bn Trade Deal with Beef Access Breakthrough
The European Union and Australia are reportedly close to finalising a major trade agreement worth around €49 billion after six years of negotiations.
According to reporting by EU Perspectives, a key breakthrough has been reached on agricultural access, with the EU prepared to allow up to 30,000 tonnes of Australian beef under preferential terms.
Beef market access has been one of the most sensitive issues in the negotiations, with European producers historically cautious about increased imports.
The deal is expected to cover a wide range of sectors, including critical minerals such as lithium, alongside agri-food trade.
Industry observers say the agreement could reshape global beef trade flows, with potential implications for UK and EU markets if Australian imports increase.
Source: EU Perspectives | 17 March 2026
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