Australia-United Arab Emirates Trade Agreement

The Albanese Government will commence negotiations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on a trade agreement (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement), in the new year.

The Government is committed to securing a trade agreement with the UAE to drive Australian exports, economic growth and create more well-paying jobs across the country.

The UAE is a gateway to the region and beyond, with two-way goods and services trade valued at $9.26 billion in 2022. The UAE is already a key market for Australian goods and services exports including alumina, meat, oil seeds, and education, with three Australian universities having campuses in-country.

A trade agreement with the UAE would create new commercially meaningful opportunities for Australian goods and services exporters seeking to diversify trade. It will also offer the opportunity to deepen our cooperation in our shared ambition to transition to net-zero, through greater investment.

The Australian Government is committed to consultation and broad engagement with stakeholders, and the community to inform the negotiations. We encourage all interested parties to provide written submissions, particularly focusing on specific impediments to trade and investment that an Australia-UAE trade agreement could address.

Further information on how to make a written submission is available at: Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell:

“The Albanese Government is committed to supporting Australian businesses diversify overseas markets.

“A trade deal with the UAE will strengthen our relationship with one of our most important trading and investment partners in the Middle East.

“More trade means more export opportunities for Australian businesses, more national income, and more well-paying local jobs.”