UAE–Panama trade reached US$ 186 mn in 2025

UAE–Panama trade reached $186 million in 2025, up nearly 50%, as both countries look to expand logistics, supply chain and investment flows between their markets. The focus is on improving cargo movement, trade connectivity and access to key global shipping routes through closer economic cooperation.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, UAE, said, accelerating investment in critical infrastructure, including ports, airports, transport networks and logistics services, alongside aligning regulatory frameworks, harmonising standards and streamlining customs procedures, are essential to strengthening global economic integration and ensuring the efficient movement of trade.

Both sides are working on expanding trade corridors that link the Gulf with Latin America, using Panama’s role as a global shipping and canal hub and the UAE’s position as a logistics and re-export centre. The aim is to make cross-border movement of goods faster and more efficient for businesses.

Priority sectors include logistics, transport, ports, digital trade systems, food supply chains, energy and manufacturing-linked services. Better coordination on customs processes and regulations is also seen as key to reducing delays and improving trade efficiency.

Infrastructure linked to ports, airports and logistics zones is expected to play a central role in supporting higher cargo volumes and smoother supply chains between the two regions.

The growing trade link reflects a wider push to build more diversified global supply chains, where goods can move through multiple regional hubs to reach markets in Asia, the Americas and the Middle East more efficiently.