The United Arab Emirates and China are strengthening their economic alliance, expanding a $100 billion trade partnership that continues to drive growth across vital sectors. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Group CEO, recently concluded a high-level working visit to China, reinforcing ties in energy, renewables, and industrial development.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion in 2024
China remains the UAE’s largest global trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $100 billion in 2024—a 7% rise compared to the previous year. This growth was largely driven by an 18% increase in imports. The momentum continued into Q1 2025, where non-oil trade surged 18% year-on-year, supported by:
- 32.5% growth in exports
- 20.2% increase in re-exports
- 12.7% rise in imports
Strategic Engagements with Chinese Leaders
During his visit, Dr. Al Jaber held key meetings with senior Chinese officials, including:
- Lan Fo’an, Minister of Finance
- Liu Jianchao, Head of the CPC International Department
- Zou Jiayi, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
These discussions focused on expanding the UAE–China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through new initiatives supporting sustainable economic growth and advanced industrial cooperation.
Private Sector and Energy Sector Collaboration
Dr. Al Jaber also engaged with the heads of several major Chinese corporations to explore new investment opportunities and deepen bilateral cooperation. These included:
- China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)
- ZhenHua Oil
- China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC)
- China Investment Corporation (CIC)
- Wanhua (Chemicals)
- Envision (Smart Energy and Renewables)
- China Energy Engineering Corporation (CEEC)
- POWERCHINA International
The meetings covered a broad range of collaboration areas, such as oil and gas, LNG, refining, petrochemicals, renewables, infrastructure development, and localisation of industrial investments.
Focus on Sustainable Partnerships
Dr. Al Jaber reiterated the UAE’s commitment to empowering national companies and advancing public-private partnerships. He emphasised the mutual benefits of fostering strategic cooperation that supports clean energy transitions, technology localisation, and long-term industrial resilience.
