Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing business relations between Abu Dhabi and Japan. This agreement was formalized during the Abu Dhabi-Japan Business Connect Forum held in Tokyo, which was attended by key public and private sector leaders, including the UAE Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Shihab Al Faheem.

During the forum, His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADCCI, highlighted that Japan has significantly influenced the UAE’s development across various sectors. He pointed out that UAE’s trade with Japan has experienced a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9% over the last five years, and during the same period, UAE investments in Japan more than doubled. Moreover, Japan attracted more than 80% of all Japanese investments in the Middle East.

H.E. Al Zaabi also noted the importance of a robust infrastructure and a business-friendly environment in attracting global talent and investors. He revealed that non-oil trade in Abu Dhabi increased by 9% in 2024, while non-oil exports surged by 86.4% over the past five years. He stressed that regulatory reforms and digital integration are essential for fostering economic growth and collaboration with Japan.

The MOU was signed by H.E. Shamis Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of ADCCI, and Nobuyuki Nakajima, Managing Director of JETRO MENA, in the presence of H.E. Shihab Al Faheem. This agreement marks a new chapter in fostering sustainable growth and innovation between the two regions.

H.E. Shamis stated that the MOU represents a crucial step in strengthening economic ties, providing a platform for investment and collaboration in key industries. He emphasized that by aligning their values of growth, sustainability, and technological progress, both nations can unlock new business opportunities and contribute to a more prosperous global economy.

Mr. Nakajima also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that this agreement represents a significant milestone in enhancing the economic relationship between Japan and the UAE. He underscored that Japan is devoted to expanding its collaboration with the UAE, which presents invaluable opportunities for exploring new investment paths and fostering beneficial business relationships.