EU and Australia FTA includes provisions for cross-border data flows
24/03/2026 | European Commission
After eight years of negotiations, the EU and Australia have concluded a free trade agreement (FTA). The FTA includes safeguards for cross-border data flows, providing legal certainty for businesses and a secure environment for digital consumers. By removing barriers and preventing discrimination between online and offline activities, the FTA seeks to modernise trade relations.
Key provisions include a prohibition on unjustified data localisation requirements that would impede data flows, while maintaining high standards for the protection of personal data and privacy. In addition, the agreement prohibits customs duties on electronic transmissions and includes articles regarding the protection of source code in the use of electronic contracts and paperless trading.
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