CANBERRA, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Australian farm industry groups on Monday called on the government to not sign a trade deal with the European Union unless it offered much greater market access for Australian agricultural products.
Australia, one of the world's biggest exporters of farm goods from wheat and beef to wool and wine, has been negotiating a trade deal with the EU since 2018.
"The message from Australian farmers is clear and united: if it's a dud deal, keep the signing pen in your pocket."
Farrell said in a statement that he had made it clear that Australia wants a trade agreement with the EU, but not at any cost.
While Australia wants access to EU markets for its farm output, much of which is now subject to tariffs and quotas, the EU is likely to gain simplified investment access to Australia's critical minerals industry.
Persons:
Don Farrell, Farrell, Fiona Simson, Peter Hobson, Jamie Freed
Organizations:
CANBERRA, European Union, Trade, EU, National Farmers ' Federation, Livestock Australia, Australia, Reuters, Thomson
Locations:
Australia, Canberra, Osaka