Australia expected to ratify Hong Kong and Indonesian FTAs

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New free trade deals between Australia, Indonesia and Hong Kong could be ratified as early as Christmas.


The government of Australia is expected to ratify free trade agreements (FTAs) with Hong Kong and Indonesia before Christmas following recommendations from a parliamentary committee.

Coalition MPs said they believe both deals should go ahead as soon as possible - together with a separate one with Peru - in a bid to strengthen trade ties and boost the economy.

It is now expected the Labour government will use legislation to ratify the agreements when parliament resumes next week.

Trade minister Simon Birmingham has welcomed the committee's support, commenting: "The ratification of these agreements will enhance export opportunities and deliver significant benefits for Australian farmers and businesses."

He also pointed out the deals should defend the rules-based trading system, ensure deeper ties with Indonesia and diversify export markets.

Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Dave Sharma added he thinks the ratification is especially important given growing global economic uncertainty and trade tensions.

The businesses set to benefit include producers of grains, dairy and horticultural products, with many other goods also in line to receive lower tariffs and better access to markets in Indonesia.