CEPA signed to strengthen UAE-Japan trade

The UAE and Japan have finalised a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to strengthen trade and economic ties. In 2025, non-oil trade between the two countries reached $20.3 billion, up 16.7% from 2024. The agreement is expected to make trade flows smoother and support logistics and supply chain operations between the two nations.

The CEPA covers areas including advanced technology, smart mobility, healthcare, energy, and digital transformation. It allows businesses to work together more easily and facilitates the movement of goods and services across borders. The agreement also encourages collaboration on research, development, and innovation that can help both countries maintain more resilient supply chains.

"The CEPA will help make trade and logistics between the UAE and Japan more efficient, supporting steady movement of goods and stronger economic connections," said Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology.

The UAE is Japan’s largest trading partner in the Middle East and Africa, accounting for 39% of Japan’s trade with the region. The agreement builds on the UAE’s broader CEPA programme, which has connected the country with over 35 high-growth economies since 2021, expanding access to international markets.

The agreement promised to improve economic coordination and help businesses plan and manage trade more efficiently. It also provides a framework for smoother logistics and supply chain management, supporting ongoing trade and investment between the UAE and Japan.