Free trade agreements contribute to greater economic activity and job creation in Australia, and deliver opportunities for big and small Australian businesses to benefit from greater trade and investment.

Free trade agreements don't just reduce and eliminate tariffs, they also help address behind-the-border barriers that would otherwise impede the flow of goods and services; encourage investment; and improve the rules affecting such issues as intellectual property, e-commerce and government procurement.

Free trade agreements give Australian businesses and consumers improved access to a wider range of competitively priced goods and services, new technologies, and innovative practices.

Free trade agreements help Australia obtain more benefits from foreign investment.

Free trade agreements promote regional economic integration and build shared approaches to trade and investment between Australia and our trading partners.

Free trade agreements can deliver enhanced trade and investment opportunities that contribute to the economic growth of less-developed economies.

Free trade agreements support stronger people-to-people and business-to-business links that enhance Australia's overall bilateral relationships with FTA partners.

Free trade agreements can continue to provide additional benefits to Australia and trading partners over time, including via in-built agendas that encourage ongoing domestic reform and trade liberalisation.