The state of bilateral relations in the agricultural sector

Deputy Minister Ryszard Bartosik drew attention to the need for joint action to ensure food security and stability of supply chains in the context of the problematic situation in agricultural markets. He expressed interest in developing trade in agri-food products with Australia, among others, by expanding the range of Polish products sent to the Australian market.

The Polish side hopes, in particular, that Australia will recognise regionalisation concerning ASF and allow the possibility of exporting cooked and cured pork meat products from Poland to Australia. We also look forward to the completion of arrangements for a health certificate for collagen casings and casein and caseinates for feed purposes.

Ambassador Lloyd Brodrick appreciated Poland's support provided to Ukraine. He declared Australia's readiness to cooperate in increasing mutual trade turnover and dialogue on the access of Polish products to the Australian market.

Polish exports to Australia

In 2021, Polish agri-food exports to Australia reached EUR 104.5 million. Tea, bakery, confectionery products, chocolate, and fish were the most significant interest to Australian importers. In January-August 2022, the value of exports amounted to EUR 75 million. This represents an increase of 14.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2021.

EU-Australia free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations

The interlocutors exchanged views on the status and prospects for the conclusion of the negotiations.

Secretary of State Ryszard Bartosik expressed the hope that the negotiations would lead to a balanced agreement that would contribute to the growth of mutual trade, taking into account the sensitivity of the agricultural sector.

Ambassador Lloyd Brodrick reported that the latest round of negotiations, held last week in Brussels, had made progress in the talks. Many negotiated topics still require further work, including issues relating to the exchange of market access tariff concessions between the EU and Australia. Nevertheless, the Australian side hopes to reach an agreement next year that Poland may also support.

The FTA negotiations started in 2018. The European Commission is engaged in talks with Australia on behalf of the Member States. The scope of the agreement is expected to cover many important areas of economic cooperation. The arrangements include rules for trade in goods (including agricultural goods), liberalisation of trade tariffs, and collaboration on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) matter. So far, 13 negotiating rounds have taken place.