UAE expands trade links with 37 CEPAs

The UAE has concluded 37 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), with 18 already in force, as it expands trade links and develops transport networks to support cargo movement and supply chain connectivity. The country is also negotiating trade agreements with around 20 additional countries.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, UAE said the UAE is combining trade agreements with investments in logistics infrastructure and trade corridors to improve the movement of goods and strengthen supply chain resilience.

He said the integration of airports, seaports and road networks has helped the UAE handle increased container traffic and maintain smooth cargo flows during recent global disruptions. Improved procedures have also supported faster truck movement across the country.

The UAE is expanding logistics capacity through projects such as DP World’s connectivity initiatives with east coast ports and AD Ports Group’s transport corridor linking Basra with Türkiye and Syria.

The country is also progressing with port expansion, road network upgrades and the Etihad Rail project, which will improve freight connectivity between industrial areas, ports and economic zones, supporting more efficient cargo movement across regional and international trade routes.