The European Union and Australia have reached a landmark trade agreement — one of the most comprehensive deals in EU history. Key outcomes of the EU-Australia Trade Deal:
🔹 100% tariff elimination on both sides — zero export restrictions, taxes or monopolies 🔹 Access to Australia’s critical minerals, including the world’s largest lithium supply
🔹 No limits on European investment in Australia
🔹 Strengthened security cooperation: joint military exercises, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism
The agreement is projected to add nearly €4 billion to European GDP by 2030.
"It’s time to build new alliances with trusted partners. To withstand shocks and stay competitive." – Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Australia from 23-25 March to strengthen EU ties with a trusted, like-minded partner in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region.
In her keynote speech at a business event hosted by the European Australian Business Council, President von der Leyen highlighted the connections between Australia and Europe. The President spoke on the historical and economic ties that bind Australia and Europe, stressing the importance of shared values and mutual trust. She announced the conclusion of a new Free Trade Agreement aimed at liberalising investment flows and removing trade tariffs, positioning Australia as a central partner in Europe’s Indo-Pacific strategy. She also introduced a new Security and Defence Partnership to enhance military cooperation and support the defence industries in both regions. Her speech underscored the trusted relationship between Europe and Australia in an increasingly volatile global environment.
For the full transcript of her speech, see here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/speech_26_705
Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/media/video/I-286717
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After nearly 10 years of negotiations, the EU and Australia have reached a major free trade agreement.
Tariffs are cut, trade is set to grow, and cooperation expands on security, supply chains, and innovation.
"We have concluded the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement. And it is such a win for both sides." – Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visits Australia from March 23-25 to strengthen EU ties with a trusted, like-minded partner in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region.
In her statement at a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on 24 March, President Ursula von der Leyen announced the conclusion of the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement, praising its mutual benefits such as tariff-free exports for Australian goods and increased service opportunities.
For the EU, this expands Europe’s trade network, promises growth in exports, and saves significant tariffs. She emphasised the importance of collaborative resilience, particularly in trade, security, and critical raw materials.
President von der Leyen also welcomed negotiations for Australia to join the Horizon Europe programme, enhancing research cooperation. The partnership reflects shared values in democracy, climate goals, and protecting future generations.
For the full transcript of the President’s statement, see here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_26_693
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We are natural partners! The EU and Australia are strengthening ties to tackle today’s geopolitical and economic challenges.
Stronger together, across continents!
18 March 2026 — The European Commission presented EU Inc. (the 28th Regime): a new, optional framework for startups to scale seamlessly across the Union.
• FULLY ONLINE registration
• Ready in 48 HOURS
• One single rulebook for all of Europe
We are making it simple for the next generation of innovators to scale across Europe.
The situation in the Middle East is increasingly serious.
The EU calls for restraint, protection of civilians, and is stepping up support with €450M in humanitarian aid.
Energy prices are rising but the EU is taking action.
From state aid to tax cuts and infrastructure improvements, measures aim to minimise the impact on citizens and businesses.
Despite delays, EU support for Ukraine remains firm.
The €90 billion loan is facing obstacles but the EU is clear: support will come, one way or another.
On 20 March 2026, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participated in the joint press conference with President Costa following the meeting of the European Council of March 2026.
In her speech, President Ursula von der Leyen articulated several urgent topics, starting with the circumstances unfolding in the Middle East. She underscored the need for de-escalation, civilian protection, and regional support, including the European Union’s recent announcement of over EUR 450 million in humanitarian assistance.
Concerning energy, President von der Leyen detailed strategic approaches to manage price volatility and secure supply, including both immediate relief measures and necessary structural alterations.
Additionally, she elaborated on efforts to simplify EU governance and invigorate the Single Market, proposing initiatives to ease cross-border business operations and adapt competition policies amidst evolving global dynamics.
On Ukraine, President von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support through a EUR 90 billion loan, despite political impediments that have blocked its disbursement. She assured that the EU is committed to exploring alternative avenues to deliver this critical financial assistance.
For the full transcript of the speech, see here:
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_26_663
Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/media/video/I-286931
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