Latest news with #MinistryofForeignTrade
Arabian Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE Hosts Key Africa Debate Conference in Dubai
The Africa Debate conference, a pivotal event focusing on trade and investment across the African continent, is set to take place on 30 September 2025 in Dubai. Organised by Invest Africa in partnership with the UAE government, this flagship conference aims to address critical issues surrounding economic growth, investment opportunities, and regional collaboration in Africa. Held in cooperation with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade, the conference will bring together top-level representatives, business leaders, and policymakers from both Africa and the UAE. The event is expected to provide a platform for high-level discussions on strategies for fostering sustainable economic development, deepening commercial ties, and enhancing trade links between the two regions. Key topics of discussion will include boosting intra-Africa trade, attracting foreign direct investment into African markets, and fostering public-private partnerships to address infrastructure challenges. The conference will also focus on sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, technology, and healthcare, areas that have seen significant growth and investment potential in Africa in recent years. ADVERTISEMENT One of the standout features of the event is the presence of African leaders, corporate executives, and development agencies who will share their insights into the current landscape and future outlook for the continent's economic prospects. UAE-based businesses and investors, well-known for their robust presence in global markets, are expected to engage in direct dialogues with African counterparts to explore opportunities for collaboration. Dubai's role as a business hub and a gateway between Africa, Asia, and Europe has further enhanced the city's appeal as the host venue for such an important gathering. The city's infrastructure, combined with its strategic location, makes it an ideal setting for bridging the economic divide and fostering discussions on cross-continental trade agreements. Furthermore, the UAE has positioned itself as a key player in strengthening relations with African nations, supporting development initiatives, and promoting its own businesses' expansion into African markets. As part of the event, several panel discussions and networking sessions will allow attendees to examine trends in African markets and identify innovative solutions to address the continent's challenges. These include exploring new financing models, overcoming trade barriers, and accelerating Africa's digital transformation. The ongoing rise of Africa's middle class and the growing demand for consumer goods, healthcare, and technological solutions present significant opportunities for businesses operating within the continent. The UAE's increasing focus on fostering economic diversification aligns with its broader strategic goals, such as its Vision 2021 and Vision 2030 agendas. By investing in industries like technology, sustainability, and infrastructure, the UAE is strengthening its own position as a leader in both the regional and global markets. The Africa Debate conference aligns with these goals, offering a unique opportunity for the UAE to collaborate with Africa's emerging markets while simultaneously furthering its international economic footprint. The event's timing is particularly significant given Africa's robust economic growth trajectory, despite facing several challenges such as political instability and infrastructure gaps. Trade agreements such as the African Continental Free Trade Area are expected to play a central role in the dialogue, with participants examining how the deal can be leveraged to boost intra-Africa trade and reduce reliance on external markets.
Mid East Info
23-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
HE Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi Meets EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič in Brussels to Strengthen Bilateral Relations
UAE-EU bilateral non-oil trade in 2024 reached US$67 billion, which represents a growth of 2.4% compared to 2023. The EU is the second-largest trade partner of the UAE, accounting for 8.3% of total UAE non-oil trade in 2024. HE Al Zeyoudi: ' Our continued dialogue with the EU is essential in navigating the evolving global trade landscape. The European Union is a highly valued trade and investment partner for the UAE, with ties that continue to deepen across a range of sectors .' Brussels, Belgium – July, 2025: His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, met with His Excellency Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade, to discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations between the UAE and the European Union. The meeting in Brussels was also an opportunity to review progress on the negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), following the first round of discussions held in June and early July. As UAE-EU bilateral relations continue to strengthen, the UAE-EU CEPA is anticipated to play a vital role in enhancing trade ties, fostering investment opportunities, and driving economic growth between the two parties. Both parties expressed optimism about the progress and potential benefits of the agreement. In 2024, non-oil trade between the UAE and the EU reached US$67 billion, reflecting a 2.4% growth over the previous year. The EU continues to be a significant trade partner for the UAE, accounting for 8.3% of its total non-oil trade. HE Al Zeyoudi remarked, 'Our continued dialogue with the EU is essential in navigating the evolving global trade landscape. The European Union is a highly valued trade and investment partner for the UAE, with ties that continue to deepen across a range of sectors. This growth in trade is aligned with our mutual interests and highlights the importance of collaboration in areas such as energy transition, advanced technology, and food security.' The meeting served as a platform for both parties to discuss strategies for increasing investments in high-growth sectors, including renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. The UAE has already established significant partnerships with EU nations, reinforced by ongoing projects in solar energy and innovative technologies. The UAE delegation to Brussels included His Excellency Mohamed Al Sahlawi, UAE Ambassador to Belgium, the European Union and Luxembourg, and His Excellency Juma Al Kait, Assistant Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade. As the UAE continues to diversify its economy, the CEPA program represents a strategic pillar of its foreign trade agenda. By solidifying trade relationships with key partners like the EU, the UAE aims to enhance access to global markets and stimulate sustainable economic development.
Hi Dubai
14-07-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Highlights CEPA Benefits in Boosting Services Exports
Dubai Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with the Ministry of Foreign Trade to host a workshop aimed at showcasing how the UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) are driving growth in the local services export sector. The session brought together Business Groups from service-based industries to explore how CEPAs are opening new commercial and investment opportunities, enhancing global market access, and supporting the international expansion of UAE-based service providers. Attendees examined the direct benefits of CEPAs, such as reduced customs duties, simplified procedures, and improved regulatory transparency. The agreements span a wide range of sectors including finance, education, healthcare, tourism, engineering, and environmental services. Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, reaffirmed the chamber's commitment to supporting the private sector. She noted that the initiative reflects ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Trade to help businesses capitalise on CEPA-driven opportunities. The session also emphasised the role of CEPAs in positioning the UAE as a strategic global trade hub. By strengthening ties between government and industry, the Dubai Chamber's Business Groups continue to play a critical role in shaping a more competitive and resilient business environment. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Gulf Today
13-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Workshop highlights the role of CEPAs in boosting service exports
Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has successfully organised a workshop in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Trade to explore the role of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) signed by the UAE in driving the growth of the local services export sector. The session was attended by representatives of Business Groups operating under the chamber that specialise in the service industries. The workshop focused on how CEPAs are creating promising commercial and investment opportunities for the private sector, expanding the global reach of the local services industry, and increasing the potential for the export of services. Participants learned more about how various sectors can benefit from CEPAs and how these agreements support the growth and international expansion of local companies engaged in the delivery of services. This includes business services; communications; engineering and construction; distribution; environmental services; education; financial and insurance services; healthcare and social services; and travel and tourism; as well as recreational, cultural, sports, and transport services. The session also explored the provisions of the agreements and their role in strengthening the UAE's position as a key gateway for the export of goods and services. The workshop highlighted the advantages of CEPAs, including improved access to international markets, reduction or elimination of customs duties, streamlined customs procedures, and the establishment of clear and transparent regulations. In addition, the agreements are designed to promote fair competition and trade-based growth. During her opening remarks, Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, commented, 'We are committed to supporting the private sector and raising awareness around key aspects of the business environment to help enhance global competitiveness. CEPAs offer tangible benefits for the business community, and today's session is an important part of our ongoing cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Trade to ensure the private sector can capitalise on the diverse opportunities these agreements present.' The Business Groups operating under Dubai Chamber of Commerce are instrumental in advancing a competitive and enabling business environment. They advocate for the interests of key industries, contribute to the development of policies and legislation that enhance sectoral competitiveness, and support various sectors in realising their strategic objectives. By fostering constructive engagement between the private sector and government stakeholders, these groups help shape a more agile and resilient business landscape, reinforcing the private sector's vital contribution to Dubai's economic development. Last month, Dubai Chamber of Commerce organised a workshop in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy to familiarise members of the Business Councils operating under the chamber with the provisions and benefits of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) signed by the UAE. The workshop, which brought together leaders and members of Business Councils, highlighted the strategic role of CEPA agreements in unlocking new trade and investment opportunities for Dubai's private sector. Discussions explored how these agreements open up broader avenues for the exchange of goods and services, while also enhancing export and re-export prospects. Participants gained valuable insights into the practical benefits of CEPAs for companies across a range of sectors, and how these agreements can support long-term business growth and international expansion. The workshop reviewed key provisions of the agreements and their role in reinforcing the UAE's position as a leading gateway for global trade and logistics. It also introduced participants to the benefits of CEPAs, including improved access to international markets, reduction or elimination of customs duties, streamlined customs procedures, and the establishment of clear and transparent regulations. In addition, the agreements are designed to promote fair competition and trade-based growth. Maha Al Gergawi said, 'We are committed to supporting and empowering the members of Business Councils to benefit from promising investment opportunities that enhance the private sector's ability to grow and expand both locally and globally. This initiative forms part of our ongoing efforts to raise awareness among the business community on the importance and strategic value of CEPA agreements, which serve as a key driver for increasing the competitiveness of the national economy and advancing cross-border trade and investments.' The country-specific Business Councils operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chamber of Commerce work in close collaboration with the chamber to stimulate bilateral trade and investment. They facilitate stronger connections between Dubai-based companies and businesses from the markets represented, with the goal of strengthening strategic economic partnerships. WAM
Mid East Info
12-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Ministry of Foreign Trade highlight role of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements in boosting service exports
Dubai, UAE – Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has successfully organised a workshop in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Trade to explore the role of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) signed by the UAE in driving the growth of the local services export sector. The session was attended by representatives of Business Groups operating under the chamber that specialise in the service industries. The workshop focused on how CEPAs are creating promising commercial and investment opportunities for the private sector, expanding the global reach of the local services industry, and increasing the potential for the export of services. Participants learned more about how various sectors can benefit from CEPAs and how these agreements support the growth and international expansion of local companies engaged in the delivery of services. This includes business services; communications; engineering and construction; distribution; environmental services; education; financial and insurance services; healthcare and social services; and travel and tourism; as well as recreational, cultural, sports, and transport services. The session also explored the provisions of the agreements and their role in strengthening the UAE's position as a key gateway for the export of goods and services. The workshop highlighted the advantages of CEPAs, including improved access to international markets, reduction or elimination of customs duties, streamlined customs procedures, and the establishment of clear and transparent regulations. In addition, the agreements are designed to promote fair competition and trade-based growth. During her opening remarks, Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, commented: 'We are committed to supporting the private sector and raising awareness around key aspects of the business environment to help enhance global competitiveness. CEPAs offer tangible benefits for the business community, and today's session is an important part of our ongoing cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Trade to ensure the private sector can capitalise on the diverse opportunities these agreements present.' The Business Groups operating under Dubai Chamber of Commerce are instrumental in advancing a competitive and enabling business environment. They advocate for the interests of key industries, contribute to the development of policies and legislation that enhance sectoral competitiveness, and support various sectors in realising their strategic objectives. By fostering constructive engagement between the private sector and government stakeholders, these groups help shape a more agile and resilient business landscape, reinforcing the private sector's vital contribution to Dubai's economic development.
