Address to the USDA Agribusiness Plenary

[Acknowledgments omitted]

Agriculture is incredibly important to Australia and my home state of Tasmania, and I understand its importance as a way of life in your respective states. 

It’s also terrific to see so many delegates from across the US agriculture industry. 

Events like this reflect the longstanding and mutually beneficial trading relationship between our two nations.  

Our alliance is bound by a history of cooperation that runs from business to trade, from defence to diplomacy, and from arts to innovation.  

Two-way trade in agricultural products continues to grow under our free trade agreement which is 21 years old.  

We also recognise the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America, and the enduring ideals that have shaped both our democracies. 

Australia and the United States have always had so much in common, including in our agricultural sectors.  

As two major producers and exporters, we have many shared interests and ambitions for our farming and rancher communities. 

In many cases, this makes our agricultural sectors complementary, rather than competitors. 

Differences across our topography, weather, and production systems means that our agricultural export profiles also differ.  

So, our bilateral trade in many agricultural goods is complementary and counter-seasonal.  

An example is our fresh produce trade, where we supply at opposite times of the year and export to each other in our respective off-season.  

On your visit you may well find fresh cherries and grapes from the United States on our shelves throughout Australia.  

Our trade and investment relationship with the US benefits both countries and has continued to go from strength to strength over recent decades.  

As a mark of respect for the alliance we share, Australia will always speak honestly. 

That is why Australia is disappointed by the imposition of tariffs on Australian goods. We believe these tariffs are unjustified and inconsistent with our free trade agreement. 

I am equally disappointed in the recent decision to initiate a global safeguard investigation into lamb imports.  

Australia has long been a dependable supplier to the US, helping to support evolving consumer preferences. 

Given that, events like this matter. 

They help to build and strengthen the relationships across government, industry and business that are essential to delivering on the many trade opportunities between our two nations.  

There are many examples of partnering across our industries to share innovation and strengthen supply chains, as well as supporting each other in international fora to protect our mutual interests.  

Today's Plenary Session is a great way for government and business alike to connect and set the tone for the days ahead, and I look forward to hearing about the opportunities, innovations and solutions that emerge from today’s discussions. 

I wish you all the very best for your engagement with the Australian agriculture and food industry in coming days, and hope that you have a great time in our beautiful country. 

Thank you.