The outgoing Trade Minister is adamant that the country's new FTA with the EU is necessary.

The agreement has been passed by the European Parliament and is expected to come into force early next year.

However, meat and dairy farmers have criticised the limited gains we've secured, which saw Australia pull out of a deal last month.

But Damien O'Connor told Mike Hosking the reality is that we can't just shut up shop to free trade.

He says if we don't have it it'll cost us all a lot more money, make us less efficient, and lead to poor use of our resources.

LISTEN ABOVE

The outgoing Trade Minister is adamant that the country's new FTA with the EU is necessary. 
The agreement has been passed by the European Parliament and is expected to come into force early next year. 
However, meat and dairy farmers have criticised the limited gains we've secured, which saw Australia pull out of a deal last month. 
But Damien O'Connor told Mike Hosking the reality is that we can't just shut up shop to free trade. 
He says if we don't have it it'll cost us all a lot more money, make us less efficient, and lead to poor use of our resources. 
LISTEN ABOVE

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Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show. Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda. The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion, delivers the best talent, and always leaves you wanting more. The Mike Hosking Breakfast always cuts through and delivers the best daily on Newstalk ZB.

Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show.Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda.The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion,...