The UAE and China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region are advancing bilateral economic ties, with a renewed focus on tourism, entrepreneurship, air transport, and logistics. This development came during a meeting held on Monday between Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, and Lan Tianli, Governor of Guangxi.
Meeting Highlights Opportunities for Strategic Sectoral Growth
During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding cooperation in several vital sectors. These included the new economy, smart manufacturing, renewable energy, e-commerce, digital trade, and advanced technologies. There was a clear emphasis on fostering stronger public-private partnerships, particularly in areas aligned with both sides’ innovation-driven growth strategies.
Talks also covered potential collaboration in food security, sustainable agriculture, free zones, and smart cities. Al Marri highlighted the UAE’s commitment to enhancing ties with Guangxi across high-impact sectors. He noted that the economic relationship between the UAE and China serves as a model of strategic cooperation grounded in innovation and diversity.
He further stressed the importance of identifying new investment avenues that support the long-term economic development of both regions.
UAE Positioned as Gateway for Guangxi’s Global Expansion
Al Marri underlined the UAE’s strategic role as a gateway to the Middle East and African markets. He noted that the country’s robust economic ecosystem empowers partners like Guangxi to expand exports and overseas investments through the Emirates’ logistics and trade infrastructure.
The Chinese delegation expressed a strong interest in deepening collaboration, particularly in logistics, port services, and technology. Both sides agreed on the need for ongoing delegation visits and active participation in trade exhibitions and economic forums. These platforms, they noted, are essential for boosting commercial relationships and discovering new opportunities for investment.
Trade Momentum and Business Presence Continue to Grow
China remains the UAE’s largest global trading partner, accounting for a substantial portion of the country’s non-oil trade. Currently, over 15,000 Chinese companies operate in the UAE, spanning various sectors—a testament to growing confidence in the country’s business-friendly environment.
In 2024, trade between the UAE and Guangxi reached $969 million, supported by expanding cooperation between free zones. Both sides expect this momentum to continue as economic ties deepen through strategic sectoral collaboration and joint initiatives.
