Australia and EU Finalise Landmark Trade Deal on Critical Minerals
Australia and the European Union have reached a landmark trade agreement that will strengthen cooperation on critical minerals and expand market access for both economies. Announced in Canberra by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the deal is the result of negotiations that began in 2018 and reflects growing global demand for secure and reliable supply chains.
A central feature of the agreement is improved access to critical minerals such as aluminium, lithium and manganese, supporting Europe’s clean energy transition and advanced manufacturing needs. For Australia, the deal delivers more seamless access to the European Union’s market of more than 450 million consumers, reinforcing its position as a trusted supplier of critical resources.
The agreement comes amid increasing trade uncertainty globally, as countries seek to diversify partners and reduce exposure to geopolitical risk. Leaders from both sides emphasised the importance of open, rules based trade and resilient supply chains in a changing global environment.
The trade deal is expected to deliver billions of dollars in economic benefits over time and deepen long term economic ties between Australia and Europe. Alongside the trade agreement, Australia and the EU also signed a Security and Defence Partnership, signalling broader cooperation across economic, strategic and security priorities.