Australian Alliance for Animals Media Release

The Australian Alliance for Animals has welcomed news that animal welfare will be included in the Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), struck by Australia’s Trade Minister Don Farrell yesterday.

While the text of the final agreement has not yet been published, a statement on the DFAT website confirms: “CEPA includes a firm commitment that both countries will continue to improve their level of animal welfare protection” and “provides for cooperation on this important topic.”

Australian Alliance for Animals Policy Director Dr Jed Goodfellow said the deal marked a global precedent as the first time a Middle Eastern nation had recognised animal welfare in an international trade agreement.

“This is something the Australian Government can be really proud of – it provides a great example of the way Australia can have a positive influence on global standards of animal welfare.

“It is very pleasing to see animal welfare recognised at this level and we hope to see the Australian Government continue this trailblazing role for animal welfare in the negotiation of future trade agreements,” Dr Goodfellow said.

The UAE was once a major destination for Australia’s live sheep trade but is now a major importer of chilled and frozen lamb and mutton, with exports valued at $266 million in 2023.

“The successful conclusion of the agreement reinforces the increasingly redundant role of the live sheep export trade, with the UAE agreeing to the elimination of tariffs on frozen Australian sheep meat.

“This will further incentivise the shift away from cruel live exports towards more value-adding opportunities in local Australian supply chains.

“We would like to acknowledge the efforts of DFAT negotiators, Trade Minister Don Farrell, and the Albanese Government in prioritising animal welfare on the global stage and securing this historic outcome.”