The Minns Labor Government has welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the European Union, a landmark deal that with the potential to unlock new opportunities for NSW exporters and strengthen the state's ability to attract European investment and businesses.
The agreement opens the door to one of the world's largest and most sophisticated economies, helping local businesses grow, create jobs and stay competitive in a changing global economy.
From farmers and food producers, to manufacturers, tech start-ups and clean energy firms, the deal creates new opportunities for NSW businesses to reach millions of new customers overseas, while reducing the red tape that make exporting harder.
The European Union accounts for almost 16% of global trade, making it a powerful economic partner for NSW. For regional NSW farmers and food producers, this agreement means new pathways to reach European consumers who value quality and sustainability - areas where NSW excels. Many food and beverage producers will have better access than ever.
The agreement also strengthens ties in fast-growing industries like critical minerals for clean energy, digital technology and advanced manufacturing, helping NSW businesses plug into global supply chains and attract new investment.
Importantly, the deal is expected to strengthen NSW's attractiveness as a destination for European investment, supporting job creation, innovation and long-term economic growth.
The Minns Labor Government will continue to support businesses to take advantage of new trade opportunities and attract strategic investment in line with the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy 2035, the state's 10‑year plan to grow and diversify exports and attract global investment.
NSW Minister for Industry and Trade, Anoulack Chanthivong said:
"This agreement is about backing NSW businesses and the people behind them, from the factory floor to the farm gate. It strengthens our partnership with the European Union, one of NSW's most important economic partners.
"The deal provides greater certainty and new opportunities for NSW exporters looking to expand overseas, with particular benefits for our food and beverage producers. From sheep and sugar to beef and barley, it opens the door for high‑quality NSW produce across Europe.
"It also enhances NSW's appeal as a destination for European investment, especially in future‑focused industries such as critical minerals for clean energy, advanced manufacturing and technology.
"Alongside our NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, this agreement supports a more productive, resilient and diversified economy, and I congratulate Senator Don Farrell for his tireless work in delivering it."
European Australian Business Council CEO Jason Collins said:
"This agreement unlocks meaningful, long-term opportunities for NSW exporters and investors by strengthening access to one of the world's largest and most diversified markets.
"By lowering trade barriers, improving regulatory cooperation and boosting confidence for cross border investment, the Australia-EU FTA will help to diversify trade, drive innovation, boost investment and lift productivity across the NSW economy.
"Importantly, these benefits will extend beyond major centres, supporting supply chains, regional businesses and the creation of high quality, skilled jobs across the state, while strengthening NSW's long term economic resilience."
