We strongly support the negotiation of a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) which will further enhance Australia's vital trade and investment interests, Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said today.
"As a bloc, Europe is already Australia's second largest trading partner and securing this deal will further enhance access to the EU market of half a billion consumers.
"Securing the Australia-European Union FTA will provide Australian businesses and farmers with new opportunities to export Australia's high value products and services.
"This agreement will improve access for Australian suppliers to the EU's government procurement markets.
"Trade helps sustain one in five Australian jobs and gives consumers greater choice and Australian businesses access to global markets.
"We support the government's announcement and will work constructively with Trade Minister Simon Birmingham during the consultation. Today's announcement is a necessary step in the process and will allow the government to move ahead on crucial market access negotiations with the EU."
