Page 281 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (Part 2)

4/15/25, 2:22 PM UAE first Arab trade partner of Republic of Congo: Thani Al Zeyoudi | Business | emirates7
Al Zeyoudi noted that since diplomatic relations were established, the partnership has
seen substantial growth. Non-oil trade between the two nations reached $3.1 billion in

2024, reflecting a 4.2 percent increase from 2023. The UAE’s non-oil exports alone

amounted to $86 million.

Discussing the economic impact of the CEPA, he said it provides Emirati products with
greater access to the Congolese market by eliminating tariffs on 99.5 percent of customs

lines. This preferential treatment is set to boost the competitiveness of several UAE
sectors, including aluminium, polyethylene, petrochemicals, heavy machinery, ceramics,

glass, iron, steel, and copper.

He further described the CEPA as a strategic move to deepen collaboration between

public and private sectors, unlocking opportunities across vital service industries. He
underscored the services sector as a major area of potential growth, being the second-

largest contributor to the Congolese GDP at around 33 percent. The Congolese
government, he noted, is actively focused on expanding this sector as part of its broader

economic diversification efforts.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi also stressed that the agreement paves the way for stronger engagement

with Sub-Saharan Africa, a fast-developing region seeking investment to drive
sustainable growth. He identified the Republic of the Congo as one of the region’s most

promising economies.

Finally, he pointed out that the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub will be

instrumental in helping Congolese exporters reach wider international markets.

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