In a significant development for Greece-Australia trade, the HACCI National Federation (HNF) convened its first national meeting of 2026 in Sydney on January 30. This gathering brought together key representatives from various HACCI state chapters to engage with Greece’s incoming Trade Commissioner, Christina Stefanidou.
The session focused on enhancing bilateral economic ties, sectoral opportunities, and collaborative strategies between the two nations. Such initiatives underscore the growing momentum in Greece-Australia trade relations amid global economic uncertainties.
Meeting Participants and Structure
The meeting marked the inaugural engagement under the rotating HNF Chair, now held by Angela Tomazos of HACCI Northern Territory. Previously, the role was led by Fotini Kypraios of HACCI Victoria and Dr. Elena Limnios of HACCI Western Australia. Attendees included chairs from HACCI Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. Additionally, HACCI NSW Board Member Alexander Rodakis participated.
Christina Stefanidou, who recently assumed her position in Sydney following her tenure as Counsellor for Economic and Trade Affairs at the Greek Embassy in South Africa, was the central figure. She shared her objectives for bolstering Greece-Australia trade and investment. Moreover, the Federation’s Patron, Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO, joined virtually from Washington, offering insights from his experience as Australia’s former Ambassador to the United States.
As Chair, Tomazos emphasized the importance of coordinated national efforts to advance female empowerment and equality. Therefore, the diverse representation ensured comprehensive discussions on state-specific priorities.
Key Discussions and Objectives
During the session, HNF members briefed Stefanidou on ongoing activities, priorities, and initiatives across HACCI states. In turn, she outlined her goals for strengthening economic, business, and trade relations. Discussions highlighted shared opportunities in key sectors, such as pathways for company introductions and coordinated communication between the Greek Trade Office and HACCI network.
For example, participants explored alignment in traditional and emerging industries. Consequently, the meeting reinforced commitments to foster meaningful partnerships with Greek diplomatic authorities. Sinodinos noted the potential for trade and investment in both established and new sectors, stressing the value of such links in an uncertain world.
Additionally, the focus on bilateral collaboration aligns with broader efforts by HACCI to connect Greek-Australian businesses nationally and internationally. Thus, this engagement sets a positive tone for 2026’s trade advancements.
Trade Statistics and Economic Context
Recent data illustrates the evolving Greece Australia trade landscape. In 2024, two-way goods and services trade reached AUD 2,206 million, with imports from Greece accounting for the majority. Principal Greek exports included transport services, medicaments, and preserved vegetables. Meanwhile, Australia’s exports featured oil-seeds, professional services, and education-related travel.
Furthermore, Australian investment in Greece stood at AUD 684 million in 2024. Greece’s exports to Australia totaled US$235.71 million that year. In November 2025, Australia exported AUD 4 million to Greece, a 100% increase from the previous month. However, Greece’s overall trade deficit narrowed to EUR 33.5 billion in 2025.
These figures demonstrate steady growth in economic ties. Therefore, meetings like this HACCI event are crucial for capitalizing on emerging opportunities in bilateral trade.
Quotes from Key Figures
Angela Tomazos stated:
This engagement with Ms Stefanidou highlighted the significant sectoral opportunities emerging across Australia and Greece. As Chair of the National Federation, I look forward to leading a coordinated national approach that supports trade, investment, and meaningful partnerships with the Greek Trade Office and our diplomatic partners.
Christina Stefanidou expressed gratitude:
I would like to thank HACCI’s Presidents and Patron for their warm welcome, for sharing information on current issues, and for their commitment to working together with all Greek Diplomatic Authorities in Australia toward our shared goal of improving bilateral economic, business, and trade relations. We are very grateful for your support.
Arthur Sinodinos added:
It was a pleasure to join HACCI’s chairs in meeting Greece’s incoming Trade Commissioner to Australia, Ms Christina Stefanidou. The meeting highlighted the great potential for trade and investment between Australia and Greece in both traditional and new sectors. In today’s uncertain world, mutually beneficial economic links between trusted partners like Australia and Greece is more important than ever.
Future Prospects for Greece Australia Trade
The meeting signals a proactive start to enhancing Greece Australia trade relations. With HACCI’s network facilitating connections, future collaborations could expand in sectors like technology, agriculture, and services. Moreover, ongoing dialogues with diplomatic entities will likely yield concrete partnerships.
For instance, prior HACCI initiatives, such as the 2025 virtual summit on bilateral trade, reported growth to over €1 billion in 2024. Thus, sustained efforts may further boost investment and trade volumes.