Page 181 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2024 (Part 1)

10/1/24, 2:42 PM Minister of State for Foreign Trade leads UAE Business delegation to New Zealand, Australia to expand trade relations
levels in 2019. The first half of 2024 continued this positive trend, with trade

volume reaching US$460.3 million, 11.5 percent more than the same period last

year. The expanding bilateral trade relationship is expected to create new

opportunities across a range of sectors.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi stated: "The UAE and New Zealand share a strong commitment to

building an innovative and resilient trade relationship. Our growing ties create new

avenues for businesses to collaborate, particularly in sectors such as the green

economy, supply chain management, food security and advanced technology. We

are greatly encouraged by the positive response to our visit, not least the conclusion

of terms on our proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which

will elevate our relationship on all fronts."

Hon. Todd McClay, New Zealand's Trade Minister, commented: "We welcome this

new phase in our relationship with the UAE. The deepening trade ties between our

nations provide a robust framework for fostering growth and prosperity for both

countries."

Dr Thani also visited Australia, where he held talks with Hon. Don Farrell,

Australia's Minister for Trade and Tourism. The ministers discussed the timelines

for signing and implementing the CEPA between their two nations, the negotiations

for which concluded in earlier in September, and to begin the process of aligning

their respective customs departments.

Dr Thani also addressed a business roundtable in Melbourne, where private-sector

representatives reviewed sectors of maximum opportunity, including food security,

renewable energy, mining, logistics and tourism.

Strengthening relations with the broader Oceania region will support regional

supply chain resilience and promote sustainable development. The CEPAs with

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