UAE CEPA Programme Enhances Global Economic Ties Through 26 Strategic Agreements

The UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) programme, launched in September 2021, has significantly enhanced its economic ties globally. By the first quarter of 2025, the UAE had established 26 agreements with key countries and international blocs. This initiative strengthens the UAE's regional and global economic standing.

In 2025, the UAE signed five new CEPAs with Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya, Ukraine, and the Central African Republic. These agreements broaden the UAE’s trade network and open new avenues for its private sector in some of the world's most dynamic economies.

Four key agreements that have already taken effect show promising results. Non-oil trade between the UAE and India grew by 20.5%, with UAE exports to India increasing by 75% by the end of 2024. Trade with Turkiye rose by over 11%, Indonesia saw growth exceeding 15%, and Georgia recorded a remarkable 56% increase.

The CEPA programme has positively influenced the UAE’s foreign trade performance, which continues to grow steadily. This aligns with the "We the UAE 2031" vision that aims to boost non-oil foreign trade in goods to AED4 trillion and increase non-oil exports to AED800 billion by 2031.

Six of these agreements are now active, while fourteen are undergoing technical and ratification processes before implementation. Negotiations for six more agreements have concluded, with signings anticipated soon. The CEPA programme continues to expand the UAE’s trade partnerships throughout 2025.

The UAE is nearing completion of CEPA negotiations with several major economies, notably Japan. Talks are expected to wrap up before the end of 2025, reflecting both nations' dedication to enhancing economic cooperation and unlocking new growth opportunities for their business communities.

Sectors Benefiting from CEPAs

The positive impact of these agreements extends across various sectors in the UAE's economy. Key beneficiaries include logistics, clean energy, advanced technology applications, financial services, green industries, advanced materials, agriculture, and sustainable food systems.

These sectors have experienced growth due to improved trade relations facilitated by CEPAs. The agreements support progress toward national goals outlined in strategic plans like "We the UAE 2031," fostering a robust economic environment.

The real-world impact of CEPAs is evident as they typically take five years or more to manifest significant effects. However, early results indicate a strong upward trajectory for the UAE's foreign trade performance.

With inputs from WAM