Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, stated that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the Central African Republic reflects the UAE leadership’s commitment to expanding global trade and investment ties. He said the agreement aligns with the country’s economic diversification and sustainable development goals, supporting its long-term economic strategy.
Al Zeyoudi noted that CEPA would create new growth opportunities for businesses in both countries. He added that bilateral trade is expected to exceed AED 3.67 billion within five to seven years, benefiting both economies.
He highlighted the continuous rise in non-oil trade between the two nations, which reached over AED 925 million in 2024, reflecting the rapid expansion of economic exchanges.
Al Zeyoudi explained that the agreement introduces a high level of trade liberalisation, with the UAE removing tariffs on 98 percent of goods from the Central African Republic, while the latter eliminates tariffs on 99.5 percent of UAE exports. This move provides significant opportunities for Emirati exporters to expand into African markets.
He stated that CEPA will also drive investment across key service sectors such as telecommunications, hospitality, logistics, and financial technology. Additionally, it will strengthen trade cooperation in industries including aluminium, ceramics, petrochemicals, iron, silver, gold, food products, and textiles.
The agreement, he said, will also promote collaboration in emerging economic sectors, particularly the digital economy and advanced technology. It aims to create opportunities for small and medium enterprises in both countries and facilitate integrated investment projects.
Al Zeyoudi concluded that the UAE-Central African Republic CEPA would enhance trade and investment ties, support economic growth in key sectors, create jobs, improve supply chains, and expand the UAE’s access to new global markets.
