Submission on the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (A-UAE CEPA)

Under the banner of the Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC), we provided a submission to the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties in response to the tabling of the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (A-UAE CEPA) in November 2024.

This submission, developed in partnership with Dairy Australia, highlights the significance of this agreement for the Australian dairy industry – a sector integral to the nation’s agricultural economy, with a farmgate value of $6.2 billion and a direct workforce of nearly 31,300 across dairy farms and processors.

As one of the world’s largest dairy exporters, with 32 per cent of production valued at $3.6 billion exported in 2023/24, securing improved global market access is vital for sustaining the industry’s growth and competitiveness.

The A-UAE CEPA represents a key milestone, particularly with the removal of the five per cent tariffs on Australian dairy exports to the UAE, a market valued at more than $27 million in 2023/24.

These tariff eliminations enhance cost competitiveness and create opportunities for Australian dairy exporters in this high-potential market.

Beyond market access, we commend the agreement’s innovative inclusion of a standalone chapter on sustainable agriculture, which aligns with the Australian Dairy Sustainability Framework. This commitment to science-based, trade-friendly sustainability measures reflects the values of our industry and supports long-term environmental goals.

However, as we celebrate this progress, we emphasise the importance of ongoing advocacy and future Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, particularly with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Expanding access to the broader GCC region, a dynamic market valued at more than $148 million (or 26,610 tonnes) in dairy exports in 2023/24, is essential for maintaining Australia’s competitive edge against other major dairy-producing nations.

ADPF looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the Australian Government to unlock further opportunities, strengthen global competitiveness, and ensure a prosperous future for the Australian dairy industry.

Read the submission in full.