Page 363 - MOET PR REPORT- SEPTEMBER 2025

9/26/25, 4:34 PM Global Digital Trade Expo opens in China with UAE participation
He added that the digital economy currently accounts for about 12 percent of the UAE's non-oil GDP, with plans
to double that share to 20 percent by 2031 as the country strengthens its role as a global hub for advanced
technologies and digital investment. The UAE was also the first country to appoint a minister of artificial
intelligence in 2017.

According to UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2025, the UAE ranked 10th globally for inbound foreign direct
investment (FDI) in 2024, achieving an unprecedented US$45.6 billion in FDI inflows.

Al Saleh highlighted that Chinese investment in the UAE totals about $9 billion, while more than 16,500
Chinese companies operate in the country, many in digital trade and advanced technologies.

He also invited Chinese firms in digital trade and emerging technologies to view the UAE as a strategic
launchpad into Middle Eastern, African and Asian markets.

The UAE pavilion at the expo features ten government and private exhibitors showcasing national initiatives in
digital transformation, AI, FinTech, and smart government services.

The event runs until 29th September at the Hangzhou Grand Convention and Exhibition Centre, covering
155,000 square metres - the largest edition since the expo's launch in 2022. More than 1,700 companies are
taking part, including 360 international exhibitors, with over 40,000 professional visitors expected, 10,000 of
them from abroad.

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