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6/10/25, 11:46 AM UAE-Serbia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Officially Comes Into Force - UrduPoint
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade,

expressed his enthusiasm regarding the CEPA’s implementation, stating, “The

activation of the UAE-Serbia CEPA heralds a new chapter in our economic
relations, creating new avenues for collaboration, investment and trade that will

benefit both our nations. Through this agreement we are committed to unlocking

significant opportunities that will create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and

facilitate a thriving environment for businesses in both countries.”

The UAE-Serbia CEPA aims to boost bilateral non-oil trade, which reached

approximately US$121.4 million in 2024, double the level of trade when compared

to 2021, with projections indicating a substantial increase in bilateral trade that will

contribute US$351 million to UAE GDP by 2031. This growth is anticipated through
the elimination and reduction of custom duties for over 96% of tariff lines, thereby

enhancing market access and fostering a more conducive environment for private

sector collaboration.

Serbia is an important partner for the UAE, with its diverse economy and strategic

location providing a vital gateway into Eastern Europe and the Balkans. The CEPA

is expected to not only enhance trade but also increase private sector

collaboration and promote investments in priority sectors such as renewable

energy, agriculture, logistics, and technology.

The UAE is Serbia’s leading trading partner in the GCC, accounting for

approximately 55% of its total trade with the region in 2023. The bilateral

relationship has been further strengthened by increasing flows of FDI, which has

been directed towards high-growth sectors, enhancing shared economic interests.
With the CEPA now ratified and officially in force, both nations can leverage

the agreement to foster economic growth and create opportunities that will benefit

their citizens.

The CEPA programme is a cornerstone of the UAE's strategic growth objectives,
aiming to increase total non-oil trade to US$1.1 trillion by 2031 and doubling the

size of the economy to US$800 billion by 2031.

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