New Australian Ambassador to prioritize increasing bilateral trade with Peru

00:30 | Lima, Feb. 14.

Australia's new Ambassador to Peru, James Yeomans, announced a key priority of his tenure will be to increase the bilateral trade balance and strengthen the free trade agreement, signed in 2018 and brought into force two years later, which removes tariffs on nearly 100% of goods.

"One of my priorities, and that of the Embassy, is to increase our level of bilateral trade. Fortunately, we have two high-level, high-quality agreements to achieve this," said the diplomat, who assumes the post for a second time.

Ambassador Yeomans noted that both countries are members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which has been in force for Peru since September 19, 2021.

The remarks were made during a welcome ceremony hosted by the Australia–Peru Chamber of Commerce (APCCI) and the official launch of the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC 2026), scheduled to take place from October 25 to 29 in Sydney.

In turn, APCCI's Board Chairman Carlos Castro Silvestre underscored his institution's commitment to boosting stronger trade growth that reinforces the bilateral relationship.

Likewise, Castro Silvestre recalled the track record of Yeomans, who was among the proponents of the FTA also known as Peru–Australia Free Trade Agreement (PAFTA).

The executive emphasized the importance of the participation of the fifth Peruvian delegation at IMARC 2026.

He said it will help strengthen links between Peruvian companies and Australia's METS sector (Mining Equipment, Technology and Services), deemed as a global leader in technology, innovation, and solutions for modern and sustainable mining.

Castro Silvestre recalled that last year the official delegation was led by Central Reserve Bank (BCR) Governor Julio Velarde, representing Peru, while Julia Torreblanca headed the mining business sector.

In that regard, the executive expressed optimism for 2026, noting that as a result of its steady growth, the Peruvian delegation is regarded as one of the most significant in terms of both size and the level of participants at this major global summit.

IMARC attracts attendees from more than 120 countries, with 50 nations represented at the governmental or ministerial level.

In addition to the main event, a wide range of side events are held, organized by national and international organizations, including networking sessions and industry meetings.

In turn, Ambassador Yeomans reaffirmed that mining investments will play a central role during his tenure at the Australian Embassy, "as well as other sectors such as education and infrastructure," he said in his remarks.

The diplomat also pledged to promote increased investment from his country into Peru, in line with international standards of quality and technology.

“We will invest in the local workforce to improve the quality of life of Peruvian communities," he indicated.

(END) NDP/CNA

Publicado: 14/2/2026