South Australian exporters and service providers are set to gain improved access to one of the world’s most valuable markets following the conclusion of negotiations on the Australia – European Union Free Trade Agreement.
Announced on 24 March 2026, the agreement will connect Australia more closely to a market of around 450 million consumers and open new avenues across trade, investment, and services. In a global environment marked by uncertainty, greater access to a large, stable and high‑value market represents a significant advantage for Australian businesses.
South Australia is well positioned to benefit. The state’s export strengths — premium food and wine, agribusiness, seafood, advanced manufacturing, energy, mining and critical minerals — align strongly with European demand. Lower tariffs and streamlined market access will help local businesses compete on the basis of quality, innovation, traceability and clean production.
The Australian Government has confirmed that 98 per cent of the current value of Australia’s exports to the EU will enter duty‑free once the agreement comes into force. For agriculture in particular, the wins are notable. European Union tariffs will be eliminated on wine, nuts, fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, most dairy products, wheat, barley and seafood. Australian wine exporters alone are expected to gain around $37 million a year from tariff removal.
Seafood exporters, including those producing kingfish, prawns and abalone, will also benefit from the elimination of EU tariffs, improving the competitiveness of high‑quality South Australian products in a premium global market.
Beyond agriculture, the agreement delivers broader economic opportunities. Tariffs will be removed on almost all manufactured goods, mineral resources and critical minerals, supporting South Australia’s growing industries in advanced manufacturing, clean energy and resources. Local companies will also gain improved access to bid for EU government procurement markets worth an estimated $845 billion annually.
The services sector stands to benefit as well. Education, tourism, communications, financial services and other providers will enjoy expanded access, while streamlined recognition of Australian qualifications will make it easier for professionals to work in Europe.
Given South Australia’s emerging capabilities in defence supply chains, clean energy and critical minerals, stronger commercial links with Europe could open new pathways for both metropolitan and regional businesses. The agreement reinforces Australia’s commitment to diversified trade relationships: critical at a time when global trade patterns are shifting.
The agreement is not yet in force. It will commence once both Australia and the EU complete their domestic ratification processes. This typically takes up to two years.
Businesses looking to explore opportunities in Europe can also seek assistance through the Chamber’s International Services team, including support with trade certification and translation services to help prepare for export and market entry.
Reach out to our team to learn more about our full range of international services to support your business at trade@sabusinesschamber.com.au or 08 8300 0000
| Australia and the EU intend to publish the full FTA text at 5.00pm AEST. |
| DFAT plans to hold an industry Town Hall at 10.00am to brief stakeholders. |
| Business groups and exporters will be able to review the final text and assess the detailed commercial outcomes. |
| The agreement will only commence once Australia and the EU complete their domestic procedures. |
