The EU-Australia FTA: Partnership, Trade and Resilience

Event Description

Hosted by MEP Barry Cowen and featuring Dr Jared Greenville, First Assistant Secretary at Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, this European Food Forum event explores opportunities for stronger cooperation between Europe and Australia. Bringing together policymakers, industry and civil society, discussions will examine resilient and sustainable agriculture, trade diversification and food security. Participants will explore how trusted partnerships can support farmers’ profitability, encourage agricultural innovation and strengthen economic resilience while delivering affordable food and greater choice for consumers across both regions.

Draft Agenda

Moderator: MEP Barry Cowen

14.00-14.10 | Opening remarks by MEP Barry Cowen & H.E. Angus Campbell AO

14.10-14.50 | Panel 1 :The EU–Australia: Bringing Two Continents Closer Together

In an increasingly uncertain global environment, resilience is built through trusted partnerships. Farmers and food producers in both Europe and Australia face common challenges, including climate volatility, rising production costs, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainty. Against this backdrop, the EU and Australia have a unique opportunity to deepen cooperation across trade, agriculture, sustainability, research, innovation and strategic security. This panel will explore how stronger ties between two like-minded partners can support sustainable farming, economic growth and greater resilience for both regions.

• Peter CREASER, Minister Counsellor Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry Australian Mission to the EU

• Catherine COMBETTE, HoU Asia and Australasia, DG AGRI (TBC)

• Dirk JACOBS, Director General, FoodDrinkEurope (TBC)

• Name TBA, European Federation  of Origin Wines (EFOW)

14.50-15.30 | Panel 2: The Importance of Trade Diversification

As global supply chains become more complex, trade diversification is increasingly important for food security, economic resilience and consumers. Well-functioning international markets help match supply with demand, provide access to essential raw materials, and support stable and affordable food prices. Achieving these outcomes requires governments and industry to work together to reduce barriers, uphold science-based standards and create predictable trading environments. This panel will examine how diversified trade relationships benefit farmers, businesses and consumers alike.

• Jared GREENVILLE, First Assistant Secretary at Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

• Christophe KIERNER, DG TRADE negotiator (TBC)

• Name TBA, Compassion in World Farming

• Iliana AXIOTIADES, Secretary General, COCERAL (TBC)

15.30-15.50 | Tete a Tete with Barry and Jared (3 questions each)

15.50-16.00 | Closing remarks by MEP Barry Cowen