The UAE President, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Faustin-Archange Touadéra, President of the Central African Republic, witnessed today the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries.
The agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities, particularly in key sectors.
The agreement was signed during a ceremony at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi by:
- Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade
- Patrick Acolloza, Minister of Trade and Industry of the Central African Republic
75% Growth in Non-Oil Trade
The non-oil trade volume between the UAE and the Central African Republic reached approximately $252 million in 2024.
This volume reflects a 75% growth compared to the previous year.
UAE’s non-oil exports to the Central African Republic include essential consumer goods such as:
- Food products
- Textiles
- Electronics
- Machinery and pharmaceuticals
Meanwhile, the Central African Republic exports agricultural products like coffee, cotton, and cassava to the UAE.
As well as valuable mineral resources such as gold and diamonds.
The UAE and the Central African Republic Are Expanding Bilateral Trade
The agreement is expected to expand market access for locally produced goods in both countries, by the below:
- Eliminating or reducing customs duties
- Removing non-tariff trade barriers
- Fostering investment in agriculture, infrastructure, and technology
This agreement underscores the UAE’s commitment to strengthening strategic economic relations with African nations.
Due to the growing importance of Africa in the global economy.
Through the agreement, both countries aim to eliminate or reduce tariffs, facilitate trade, and pave the way for enhanced cooperation across various sectors.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may God protect him, and His Excellency Faustin Archange Touadera, President of the Central African Republic, today witnessed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the two… pic.twitter.com/Fvq0v4cNcS
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) March 7, 2025
$1.1 Trillion Non-oil Trade
The UAE’s CEPA program is a fundamental pillar of the country’s goal to raise total non-oil trade to $1.1 trillion by 2031.
This program has played a crucial role in improving access to fast-growing markets.
It also has significantly contributed to the UAE’s record-high total trade volume of $816 billion in 2024, marking a 14.6% increase from 2023.
During the ceremony, His Highness the President of the UAE and the President of the Central African Republic also witnessed the announcement of several agreements and memorandums of understanding between the two nations.
The agreements and memorandums of understanding covered areas such as:
- Investment protection and promotion
- Avoidance of double taxation
- Infrastructure
- Mineral resources
- Education
