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5/13/24, 5:07 PM UAE, New Zealand to launch comprehensive economic partnership talks – The Gulf Time Newspaper
McClay said, “Today’s launch of negotiations is an exciting step towards cementing a significant trade and
economic relationship. This follows the conclusion of successful exploratory discussions, as well as public

consultation, which demonstrated the importance of pursuing a high-quality agreement to boost our
economy and unlock greater export opportunities.”
He added that an agreement with the UAE will provide new opportunities to New Zealand exporters who

“are integral to revitalising our economy, which is why the Government has set the ambitious target of
doubling exports by value within 10 years. New opportunities in the UAE will open further commercial

opportunities that will help lift domestic incomes and reduce the cost of living.”
“The UAE is a key export destination and hub in the Gulf region, and there are significant opportunities to
enhance cooperation across a range of areas, including agriculture and sustainable energy,” he said.

Foreign trade remains the cornerstone of the UAE’s economic agenda. In 2023, the UAE’s non-oil trade in
goods reached an all-time high of $701 billion, a 12.6 percent increase on 2022 – and 34.7 percent more
than 2021. A CEPA with New Zealand will be a significant addition to the UAE foreign trade network, which

is helping to propel non-oil foreign trade towards its target of AED4 trillion (US$1.1 trillion) by 2031.

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