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which hit US$65 million in 2023, was a key topic of discussion. Both parties explored avenues for
expanding trade and investment in sectors of mutual interest such as renewable energy, tourism,
food security, ICT, and manufacturing.
Meetings with Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade; Franz Tattenbach, Minister of Environment
and Energy; and Efraim Zeledon Leiva, Deputy Minister Ministry of Public Works and Transport of
Costa Rica highlighted the diverse opportunities for enhancing trade and investment ties.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized Costa Rica's potential as a vibrant economy in Central America and its
alignment with the UAE's focus on innovation-driven sustainable development. The CEPA is
expected to provide substantial market access for the UAE, making 98 percent of tariff lines duty-
free or subject to reduced tariffs across various sectors.

A high-level roundtable discussion also took place, bringing together corporate leaders from both
countries to discuss potential partnerships and investment opportunities. Dr. Al Zeyoudi
highlighted the UAE's position as a global trade hub and its attractive business environment.
The UAE delegation included prominent figures such as Rawdha Mohamed Alotaiba, UAE
Ambassador to Costa Rica; Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi from ADDED; Juma Mohammed Al Kait
from the Ministry of Economy; Mohammed Juma Al Mashrekh from Invest in Sharjah; Ahmed Khalifa
Al Qubaisi from the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Sultan Al Hindasi from
Fujairah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This visit not only solidifies the economic
partnership between the UAE and Costa Rica but also opens doors for future collaborations across
key sectors.

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