Page 37 - ECI PR REPORT - MARCH 2025

3/20/25, 8:32 AM AI isn’t just a passing trend — it’s a game-changer for trade, finance, and economic strategy
cutting-edge technology, she ensures businesses can trade faster, more
intelligently, and with less risk.

Economic diversification and trade expansion

Under Al Mazrouei’s leadership, ECI has focused on providing financial security
for UAE exporters, particularly in the wake of the Comprehensive Economic
Partnership Agreements (Cepas) led by the Ministry of Foreign Trade. These
agreements aim to strengthen trade relationships and enhance market access for
UAE businesses looking to export, as well as for foreign business looking to enter
the UAE market. “One of the biggest challenges exporters face is non-payment
from foreign buyers,” Al Mazrouei says. “By offering trade credit insurance, we
help businesses mitigate risks and expand internationally.”

The push for economic diversification gained momentum following comments
31 Dec, 2023
made by President Sheikh Mohamed, who was then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Festival fireworks
and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, during the 2015
World Government Summit, where he said “in fifty years’ time we will celebrate
the last barrel of oil”. Sheikh Mohammed went on to stress the importance of
building a knowledge-based economy that relies on innovation, words that

resonated deeply with Al Mazrouei.

“If you look at global markets today, technology companies have overtaken
traditional industries in market capitalization. AI adoption in trade finance is no
longer optional—it’s necessary,” says Al Mazrouei.

While AI is expected to bring efficiencies and enable volume operations,
regulatory frameworks and operational challenges remain key concerns for
businesses in the UAE. “The appointment of AI officers across government
entities shows the commitment to integrating AI into all sectors,” she notes.

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/ai-isnt-replacing-us-its-empowering-us-eci-ceo 3/6