Currently, the EU and Australia are negotiating a free trade agreement that has been stalled due to agricultural issues, particularly regarding quotas for beef and lamb. These negotiations, initiated in 2018, were revitalized in 2026, with both parties aiming for a compromise. The EU views this agreement as a means to ensure reliable access to strategic raw materials, while Australia sees it as an opportunity to expand its exports to the European market.

Analysts point out that the cases of both Vietnam and Australia illustrate a broader trend, where the EU is increasingly seeking new partners in a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and trade wars. As the EU shifts its focus toward diversifying its trade relationships, the implications for all member states, including Lithuania, remain uncertain. Questions arise about whether such agreements yield tangible benefits for every nation and who ultimately profits more—the exporters or the consumers.

Historically, Europe has been a proponent of global trade, leveraging its extensive range of exportable products. The region has derived significant success from global markets, which has shaped its supply chains and value-adding structures. As the EU navigates its future trade agreements, the outcomes will significantly influence its member countries’ economic landscapes and their positions in the global market.