Ministers and officials in the UAE have expressed strong support for the recently signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with New Zealand. They view this agreement as a strategic move to enhance bilateral economic relations and improve cooperation in key sectors such as advanced technology, clean energy, agriculture, and financial services. The CEPA is set to support the UAE’s economic diversification objectives and attract high-value investments, bolstering the UAE’s status as a global trade and innovation hub.

The agreement aligns with the vision of UAE leadership to deepen economic integration with global markets. It reflects the nation’s commitment to developing strategic partnerships that serve mutual interests. The CEPA provides a comprehensive framework to facilitate trade and investment, stimulate growth and innovation, enhance national economic competitiveness, and promote sustainable development for both countries.

Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, emphasized the significance of the UAE-New Zealand CEPA in strengthening bilateral economic relations and increasing investment flows. He noted that the agreement consolidates the UAE’s position as a global centre for trade and foreign direct investment. Meanwhile, Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, pointed out New Zealand’s reputation as a leader in clean energy transitions and stated that the CEPA would enable collaborative efforts on impactful projects.

Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, added that the CEPA is in line with the UAE leadership’s vision of enhancing international cooperation and building valuable partnerships. He highlighted the unique opportunity it presents to expand industrial collaboration, particularly in technology, advanced manufacturing, and sustainability. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to fostering sustainable economic and trade relations, particularly with New Zealand, which is an important economy in the South Pacific region.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment, remarked that New Zealand’s strong economy, which focuses on future-oriented sectors, makes it an excellent partner for the UAE’s investment community. He indicated that the CEPA would promote investment flows into key areas such as clean energy, infrastructure, logistics, tourism, and sustainable food production. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, mentioned that the CEPA provides a strategic platform to tackle global challenges like food security and climate change, commending New Zealand’s leadership in sustainable agricultural practices.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, highlighted the agreement’s potential to give UAE exporters better access to a significant market while creating new investment opportunities in priority sectors, including agriculture and renewable energy. He noted that non-oil trade between the UAE and New Zealand reached US$642 million during the first nine months of 2024, reflecting an 8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023. The agreement is expected to secure a crucial supply chain in the Pacific region, supporting the UAE’s goal of achieving AED4 trillion in non-oil foreign trade by 2031.

Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State, stated that the CEPA exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships, showcasing its international vision and dedication to alliances based on mutual interests. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), remarked that the CEPA would unlock new opportunities for businesses in both countries to explore investment possibilities in various sectors, including financial services, while enhancing financial and banking cooperation.

Furthermore, Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahej, Director-General of Customs and Ports Security at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, pointed out that the CEPA is a crucial step in advancing the UAE’s external trade network by simplifying customs procedures and improving trade efficiency. Abdullah Al Basti, Secretary-General of Dubai Executive Council, described the CEPA as transformative for strengthening the UAE’s strategic position as a global hub for innovation and economic connectivity, emphasizing its importance in reinforcing the UAE and Dubai’s status as an international gateway to the vital Asia-Pacific region.