UAE and India Explore Expansion of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement

UAE and India Economic Partnership Agreement

UAE and India Explore Expansion of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement

The United Arab Emirates and India are taking bold steps to expand the scope of their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into effect in May 2022. During an official visit to Mumbai, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, met with India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, as well as senior business leaders and industry representatives.

The discussions focused on unlocking untapped opportunities within CEPA, ensuring broader benefits across sectors such as logistics, agriculture, healthcare, and technology. A series of roundtable sessions, hosted by leading Indian business federations, further emphasized the importance of aligning priorities and boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi reaffirmed the strength of UAE-India relations, highlighting the tangible outcomes of CEPA: in the first half of 2025, non-oil bilateral trade reached USD 37.6 billion, marking a 33.9% year-on-year increase. This progress reflects both nations’ shared vision of building stronger, future-focused partnerships.

The visit also included a presentation on the “Bharat Mart” project in Jafza, Dubai, managed by DP World, which will provide Indian exporters with a strategic gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

By deepening cooperation in pharmaceuticals, food exports, and emerging industries, the UAE and India are solidifying their positions as global trade hubs, committed to long-term economic growth and innovation.