UAE Seals 26 Global Trade Deals, Fast-Tracks Toward $1.1 Trillion Target

Since the UAE launched its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) initiative back in September 2021, the country has wasted no time in bolstering its global trade credentials. Fast forward to early 2025, and they've already secured an impressive 26 agreements with significant nations and major international trading blocs, clearly illustrating the UAE's ambition on the global economic stage as it moves closer to its ambitious $1.1 trillion trade target.

2025 itself has been a busy year so far, with new CEPA deals inked alongside Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya, Ukraine, and the Central African Republic. These fresh agreements are expected to expand trade networks and open brand-new avenues for Dubai and Abu Dhabi-based businesses, alongside enterprises across the entire Emirates. Notably, six agreements have already come into force, with another 14 awaiting ratification from respective governments; further afield, negotiations for six additional deals are also done and dusted, and should be formally signed very soon. Meanwhile, talks with influential economic giants like Japan are reportedly in their last stages—something Arageek readers will certainly want to keep an eye on.

Looking at the impacts of existing CEPAs, the numbers are hardly shabby. Non-oil trade with India has risen sharply by 20.5 percent—with exports jumping by an impressive 75 percent. Trade with Türkiye, meanwhile, has grown by 11 percent, Indonesia is up 15 percent, and rather impressively, trade with Georgia has surged 56 percent.

These strategic trade deals are central to the UAE's economic sustainability plans as laid out in their “We the UAE 2031” vision, aiming at AED 4 trillion ($1.1 trillion) in total trade and AED 800 billion ($218 billion) in exports by the end of the decade. Key sectors expected to fare particularly well include logistics, clean energy solutions, innovative tech services, financial industries, and sustainable food systems—all crucial to the Emirates' vision of an economically diversified and resilient future.

Speaking to a few friends who've seen their businesses boom on the back of these CEPA deals, it's clear these aren't just numbers on paper—they're really changing people's livlihoods across the UAE. It's exciting times for local entrepreneurs, who are well-placed to grab hold of these emerging international opportunities.

All eyes now remain firmly set on what's next, as the UAE continues to expand its global trade footprint, aiming to cement its position as an international commercial powerhouse.

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