AGRICULTURE needs to be at the heart of any Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) says National Farmers Federation president Brent Finlay.
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“It is critically important that as these trade talks progress over the next week, the benefits that the Australian farm and agribusiness sector might derive are foremost in the mind of Australia’s negotiators,” Mr Finlay said.
“Australian farmers are of the view that this agreement can deliver significant outcomes across the sector and across the economy,” he said.
Mr Finlay said agriculture had always been a strong supporter of trade and the benefits it brings to the broader commnuity.
“The NFF has been very clear that improved commercial market access from the date of implementation on an agreement remains the highest priority for Australian farmers,” he said.
“We recognise that there are challenges in reaching agreement with twelve countries. However, the success of the TPP, and all trade agreements for that matter, will ultimately be measured against the commercial value back to the farmer.
“A successfully negotiated TPP would establish a new free trade agenda across the Asia-Pacific, where approximately 30 per cent of Australia's total trade is focussed,” he said.