World · 14 February 2026
Australia and EU close in on long‑awaited free trade agreement after Brussels talks
Australia and the European Union have reported constructive progress in negotiations toward a free trade agreement that had stalled since 2023, according to officials following ministerial discussions in Brussels. Key sticking points such as market access for Australian beef and lamb and geographic name protections for products like prosecco and parmesan have seen narrowing differences, bringing the pact closer to finalisation. Leaders from both sides are expected to review the latest offer before signing.
Reported by The Guardian · How we write briefs