UAE’s Economic Partnerships Advance with Japan and EU
Progress in Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the Minister of Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates, has announced that discussions surrounding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with Japan and the European Union are nearing completion. These negotiations are pivotal for enhancing trade and investment relations, ultimately aiming to foster economic growth and development partnerships within the UAE and beyond.
Strategic Importance of CEPA Negotiations
In remarks made to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized the significance of ongoing CEPA negotiations with major global economies. The progress made with both Japan and the EU is notable, with a second round of discussions scheduled for December. This step is seen as crucial to expanding the UAE’s trade footprint and solidifying its position as a key player in international economics.
Expanding Global Economic Ties
Negotiations are not limited to Japan and the EU. Dr. Al Zeyoudi pointed out that similar discussions with Nigeria and the “Mercosur” bloc, which includes several Latin American countries, have also reached advanced stages. He expressed optimism about concluding these agreements shortly, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to diversifying its economic partnerships.
Record Growth in Non-Oil Trade
Highlighting the success of the UAE’s non-oil trade sector, Dr. Al Zeyoudi reported record-breaking growth, with total non-oil trade exceeding AED 2.67 trillion in the first nine months of 2025. This marks a significant 24.6% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, the third quarter of this year witnessed non-oil trade figures reaching nearly AED 1 trillion for the first time, underscoring the robustness of the UAE’s trade economy.
Diverse Export Contributions
The Minister also highlighted that non-oil exports surged by more than 42% in the initial nine months of this year, driven by key commodities such as gold, diamonds, precious metals, aluminum, copper, and perfumes. The increase in imports, by 23%, along with a 15% rise in re-exports, showcases the diversification and resilience of the UAE’s foreign trade structure.
Positive Outcomes from Existing Agreements
Dr. Al Zeyoudi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to forming comprehensive economic partnerships that yield mutual benefits. He pointed out that trade growth with countries engaged in existing agreements has been promising, with increases of 19.4% with India, 16.6% with Türkiye, 5.2% with Indonesia, 45% with Cambodia, and more than 100% with Costa Rica in just the first nine months of 2025.
Global Trade Growth Outlook
Citing recent projections from the World Trade Organization, Dr. Al Zeyoudi noted that global trade is expected to grow by 2.4% by the end of the year. In stark contrast, the UAE’s trade growth has remarkably surpassed this global average, reflecting the effectiveness of its economic and trade policies. These strategies have positioned the UAE as a vital global hub for exports, re-exports, industry, and investment.
Conclusion
As the UAE forges ahead with its negotiation endeavors and celebrates unprecedented growth in its non-oil trade sector, it underscores its commitment to becoming an even more integral part of the global economic landscape. Through effective partnership agreements and a focus on diversification, the UAE is poised to sustain its trajectory of prosperity and influence in international trade.
