European Union delegation visits region for the first time to explore new trade opportunities
Last week a delegation of Trade Commissioners from the European Union (EU) along with representatives from Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) visited our region to explore new trade opportunities and strengthen bilateral relations between the EU and Australia.
For all of the Ambassadors, from Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Netherlands, Slovenia, Czechia and Spain, this was their first time visiting Queensland, let alone our region, as they are all new Ambassador postings to Australia. The opportunity to showcase the biggest strengths of Toowoomba and the Western Downs was invaluable, and the visit has put the region on the radar of the EU for potential future visits and trade opportunities.
The opportunity to host the Spanish Ambassador was especially valuable, as it offered a chance to showcase the completed infrastructure and renewable energy projects, including the wind farms in the Western Downs region. These wind farms were constructed by three of Australia's largest contract providers, all of which originated from Spain, and were of particular interest to the Ambassador.
The EU delegation was also impressed by the innovation in space, earth-friendly concrete, thriving agriculture, and renewable energy commitment of the region. Our region produces 50% of Queensland's renewable energy, and there are plans for five times growth in the next three years, including six wind farms, solar farms, green hydrogen, and pumped hydro all in varying stages of development.
The visit was timely ahead of the finalisation of the AUS - EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which has the potential to open a market for Australian goods and services to almost 450 million people, removing quotas and tariffs. Agriculture will be a key pillar of the FTA, and the visit highlighted the sustainability efforts of Australian farmers, who are known as supply chain "carbon heroes." Despite Australia's global reputation for being clean and green, there is a risk of further sustainability restrictions being placed given misconceptions about Australia's commitment to sustainable agriculture. The EU delegation also had the opportunity to appreciate the subtleties of farming outside Europe and in an arid country, where farmers have and will continue to innovate to deliver improvements and solutions.
The visit to Toowoomba by the EU delegation highlights the importance of strengthening bilateral trade relations and exploring new opportunities for trade and investment. The TSBE team looks forward to continuing to work with the EU and Australian partners to strengthen these relationships and drive growth in the region.
