The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Republic of Angola have concluded a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that is projected to elevate non-oil bilateral trade to more than USD 10 billion annually by 2033, according to Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade. Announcing the agreement, Dr Al Zeyoudi said the CEPA builds on strong economic relations between the two countries, which were established in 1997. He highlighted that non-oil trade reached USD 2.17 billion in 2024, reflecting a 2.6 percent increase compared to 2023.
UAE non-oil exports to Angola totaled USD 135.6 million last year, while bilateral non-oil trade during the first half of 2025 reached approximately USD 1.4 billion, marking a 29.7 percent year-on-year rise. Dr Al Zeyoudi said the UAE views Angola as an important partner in Sub-Saharan and West Africa, citing its young population, abundant natural resources, and sustained economic growth, with Angola’s GDP expanding by 4.4 percent in 2024. He added that the CEPA is designed to support mutual trade and investment in high-potential sectors.
Angola’s exports to the UAE in 2024 were dominated by diamonds, gold, copper bars, rods, alloys, and grains, which collectively accounted for 99.8 percent of the UAE’s total imports from Angola. Meanwhile, UAE exports to Angola included light petroleum distillates, iron and steel, taps and valves, metal structures, cigarettes, and perfumes, representing around half of the UAE’s overall exports to Angola. Re-exports to Angola primarily consisted of large and medium-sized vehicles, diesel trucks, spare parts, and mechanical components, which made up 50 percent of total re-exported items.
CEPA to increase non-oil trade between UAE and Angola
According to Dr Al Zeyoudi, the CEPA is expected to contribute about USD 1 billion to the GDP of both countries and create nearly 30,000 new jobs. The agreement aims to reduce or eliminate tariffs, remove unnecessary trade barriers, enhance access to services, establish mechanisms for digital trade, and improve dispute resolution frameworks. The agreement also expands opportunities for Angola to increase exports to the UAE by up to USD 993.6 million in products such as glass, fish, fruits, and optical goods.
Similarly, the UAE is positioned to increase its exports to Angola by up to USD 235 million, particularly in machinery, electrical equipment, plastics, rubber, ferrous metals, chemicals, and mineral products. Services form a significant part of the CEPA framework. The agreement promotes collaboration in sectors including logistics, construction, engineering, healthcare, education, environmental services, finance, telecommunications, tourism, and travel. Services contribute nearly 40 percent of Angola’s GDP, making them a vital component of bilateral economic expansion.
New opportunities in machinery, chemicals, and energy sectors
Dr Al Zeyoudi also highlighted the involvement of major UAE companies already investing in Angola. Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) is developing a 150-megawatt solar power project to provide renewable energy to approximately 90,000 homes. Dubai Investments is constructing the “Dubai Investments Park Angola” over an area of 2,000 hectares, and AD Ports Group recently began operating a multipurpose terminal at the Port of Luanda.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to benefit from the agreement through streamlined trade procedures and expanded access to new markets. A dedicated committee will be established to foster collaboration among support centers, incubators, accelerators, export hubs, and businesses led by youth, women, and startups. The CEPA will take effect once ratification procedures are completed by both governments. Upon implementation, the agreement will provide immediate advantages, including simplified customs processes, reduced tariffs, and greater market access for companies in both countries. – By Content Syndication Services.