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3/26/25, 2:48 PM UAE, Tunisia launch CEPA negotiations - Eye of Riyadh

UAE, Tunisia launch CEPA negotiations

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export
Development of Tunisia, have announced the start of negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
(CEPA) aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties between the two nations.

In a virtual meeting held between the two ministers and officials from their respective ministries, both sides expressed their
commitment to further expand and deepen bilateral relations. The discussions emphasised the mutual benefits of a CEPA,
which will aim to enhance trade and investment flows by reducing tariffs and trade barriers, improving market access, and
establishing investment pathways across various sectors.

Al Zeyoudi stated, “Tunisia is a valued partner that presents a diverse range of trade and investment opportunities that will
enhance our mutual economic growth and prosperity. The start of negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreement represents a pivotal opportunity for both the UAE and Tunisia to deepen our economic ties and unlock
new avenues for trade and investment.”

Al Zeyoudi added that the UAE stands as Tunisia's leading trade partner in the GCC region. In 2024, non-oil trade between the
UAE and Tunisia reached approximately US$350 million, a growth rate of 7.7% compared to 2023. The CEPA is expected to

serve as a strategic framework for further collaboration and economic integration, increasing bilateral trade, investment
opportunities, and collaboration between both countries public and private sectors.

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