UAE’s CEPA Prgm boosts global economic ties with 26 agreements

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) programme, initiated in September 2021, has resulted in 26 agreements with strategically significant countries and international blocs by the end of the first quarter of 2025, enhancing its global economic position.

New agreements in 2025

In 2025 alone, the UAE signed five new CEPAs with Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya, Ukraine, and the Central African Republic. These agreements significantly expand the country’s global trade network and create new opportunities for the UAE’s private sector across dynamic economies.

Agreements in progress

Six of these agreements have officially entered into force. Fourteen others are in technical and ratification stages, with negotiations on six more nearing completion. The UAE continues to broaden its trade and investment partnerships through this ongoing programme.

Negotiations with major economies

The UAE is also in the final stages of CEPA negotiations with major economies, notably Japan. Talks are expected to conclude by the end of 2025, reflecting both nations' commitment to deepening economic collaboration.

Positive trade results

Four key agreements already in effect have led to significant trade growth. Non-oil trade with India grew by 20.5%, with UAE exports to India jumping 75% by the end of 2024. Trade with Turkiye increased by over 11%, Indonesia saw growth of 15%, and Georgia recorded a 56% increase.

Support for UAE’s Vision 2031

The CEPA programme has accelerated the UAE’s foreign trade growth, supporting the “We the UAE 2031” vision, which aims to increase non-oil foreign trade to AED4 trillion and non-oil exports to AED800 billion by 2031.

Key beneficiaries of the CEPA agreements

The positive impact of the agreements is particularly evident in sectors such as logistics, clean energy, advanced technology, financial services, green industries, advanced materials, agriculture, and sustainable food systems.