The United Arab Emirates is advancing its ambitious Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) program, solidifying its position as a global trade hub. By the first quarter of 2025, the UAE had signed 26 agreements with key international partners, marking a major milestone in its efforts to strengthen regional and global economic ties.

Launched in September 2021, the CEPA initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to economic diversification and trade expansion. In 2025 alone, the country secured five new CEPAs with Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya, Ukraine, and the Central African Republic. These agreements are expected to create new opportunities for the private sector across diverse and fast-growing markets, further broadening the UAE’s trade network, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

As of early 2025, six of the UAE’s 26 signed CEPA agreements have officially come into effect, while 14 are undergoing technical reviews and ratification. Negotiations for six additional agreements have been finalized, with signings expected soon.

The UAE’s expansion of its CEPA program is already delivering tangible results. Trade with India has surged, with non-oil trade rising by 20.5% and UAE exports to India soaring by 75% by the end of 2024. Meanwhile, trade with Turkey grew by over 11%, Indonesia saw a 15% increase in bilateral trade, and economic ties with Georgia experienced a remarkable 56% boost, underscoring the program’s success in strengthening global partnerships.

In addition to these achievements, the UAE is currently in the final stages of negotiations for a CEPA with Japan, one of the world’s largest economies. Talks are expected to conclude before the end of 2025, signaling further expansion of the UAE’s international trade network.

The CEPA program aligns with the UAE’s broader economic vision, particularly the ‘We the UAE 2031’ agenda. This agenda aims to boost non-oil foreign trade in goods to approximately $1.09 trillion (Dhs4 trillion) and non-oil exports to approximately $218 billion (Dhs800 billion) by 2031. This initiative underscores the country’s commitment to economic diversification and global competitiveness.

The agreements are set to drive growth across key sectors, including logistics, clean energy, advanced technology, financial services, green industries, agriculture, and sustainable food systems. By forging trade partnerships across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Pacific, the UAE is strengthening its role in global supply chains while advancing innovation and sustainability.