The EU market represents a sizeable opportunity for Australian exporters and investors. Australia’s robust economic conditions also provide a business environment for expanded trade and investment with the EU.

Australia’s two-way trade with the EU was valued at some $83 billion in 2008.

Merchandise exports grew a modest five percent, in a trying economic climate, to $29 billion in 2008.

In 2008, goods and services exports to the EU represented 41.6% of Australia's Gross Domestic Product.

Major Australian exports in 2008 were coal, gold, alcoholic beverages and Nickel ores and concentrates.  Combined, these represented $13 billion.  Australia's major imports were medicaments (including veterinary), passenger motor vehicles, gold and goods vehicles.  These valued $13 billion in 2008.

Major Services exports from Australia to the EU were valued at some $5.6 billion in 2008.   Major exports are personal travel (excluiding educations) and transportation.  Australia’s major exports to the EU have grown strongly over the last five years (with the exception of wool).

While the UK remains the most prominent EU destination for our exports, the newer EU member countries are emerging rapidly, though from a low base. For more detailed information, please refer to the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, trade pulications.