UAE And Argentina Collaborate To Explore New Investment Opportunities At Economic Seminar

The Ministry of Economy, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, organised a significant economic seminar between the UAE and Argentina in Abu Dhabi. The event aimed to explore new trade and investment opportunities, gathering senior government officials and business leaders from both countries.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, attended the seminar alongside Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and Chairman of the UAE Chambers. The Argentinian delegation was led by Gerardo Werthein, Argentina’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship.

The seminar coincided with an official visit by Argentina’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. It focused on Argentina’s new investment framework, the Incentive Regime for Large Investments (RIGI), highlighting its benefits for international investors. This initiative aims to attract large-scale investments by offering incentives across key sectors like mining, energy, infrastructure, and technology.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the UAE's dedication to enhancing economic ties with Argentina. He stated that "Argentina is an important economic partner for the UAE," emphasising opportunities to boost trade and investment flows in sectors crucial for both nations' futures.

Al Zeyoudi also promoted the UAE's pro-business regulatory environment. He noted that its global connectivity, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location make it an ideal platform for Argentinian businesses seeking international expansion.

Werthein underscored the importance of strengthening economic cooperation with the UAE. He remarked that launching RIGI is a pivotal step towards creating a more competitive environment for investors.

Expanding Global Trade Relations

The RIGI programme offers regulatory stability, tax incentives, and long-term predictability for foreign investors in Argentina. This ensures businesses can expand confidently while accessing high-growth opportunities in sectors such as mining and energy.

Al Zeyoudi highlighted the UAE's expanding global trade relations through its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This makes it an attractive gateway for South American companies aiming to access high-growth markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

Commitment to Future Collaboration

The seminar concluded with a commitment from both nations to strengthen economic collaboration further. They aim to explore joint investment projects and new areas of cooperation in future years.

This builds on growing non-oil trade between the two countries, which reached US$537.1 million in 2024—a 68% increase from 2019. Major Argentinian exports include corn, iron pipes, and soybean products.

Bilateral Investment Treaty

The UAE exports high-value machinery and tools supporting Argentina's manufacturing and technology sectors. In 2018, both nations signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to deepen investment ties further.

This treaty reinforces their shared commitment to fostering a transparent investment environment for businesses in both countries. Additionally, the UAE continues exploring closer engagement with South American countries through discussions with Mercosur to enhance market access across the region.

With inputs from WAM