How UAE and Australia's CEPA is unlocking major new trade opportunities.
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
The UAE and Australia held their second Joint Economic Committee meeting to accelerate trade and investment under the CEPA, focusing on high-growth sectors like logistics and transport.
Key Takeaways
- •Second Joint Economic Committee met in Dubai to accelerate the UAE-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- •Non-oil trade reached US$4.3 billion in the first nine months of 2025, demonstrating 32.4% year-on-year growth.
- •Emirates Airline and Etihad Rail officials participated, highlighting the CEPA's focus on boosting transport, logistics, and air cargo volumes.
- •CEPA eliminates over 99% of tariffs on Australian goods, strengthening the UAE's role as a key Middle East trade gateway.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia recently held their second Joint Economic Committee (JEC) meeting in Dubai. The goal was to boost mutual trade and investment. These efforts are driven by the nations’ Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
The CEPA was signed in November 2024 and officially came into force in October 2025. This trade agreement is central to deepening the UAE Australia trade agreement ties. The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, and Don Farrell, Australia's Minister of Trade and Tourism.
Boosting Trade and Investment
Both nations are actively encouraging their private sectors. They want companies to fully utilize the benefits of the CEPA. Minister Al Zeyoudi stressed the many avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation.
The JEC meeting explored new UAE Australia investment opportunities. It also discussed ways to remove obstacles to trade. The UAE highlighted its pro-business environment and advanced infrastructure. This includes strategic opportunities in high-growth sectors. These sectors include AI, renewable energy, agriculture, and advanced technology.
Minister Farrell noted the CEPA is creating enormous opportunities for Australian exporters. The UAE is Australia's largest trading partner in the Middle East. It serves as a vital Middle East trade gateway for exports to the broader region.
Aviation and Logistics Impact
The transport and logistics sector is a key focus area under the CEPA framework. Officials from major entities like Emirates Airline and Etihad Rail attended the JEC. Their presence highlights the critical role of air and rail connectivity.
Air Cargo and Connectivity
Emirates Airline is a major contributor to Australian trade and tourism. In 2024–25, the carrier moved 79,000 tonnes of high-value cargo. It also carried almost 2.6 million passengers on Australia flights. The CEPA's tariff elimination on over 99% of Australian goods is significant. This will likely lead to an increase in air freight volumes.
Increased trade means more demand for efficient logistics and transport services. The UAE's position as a global trans-shipment hub is now strengthened. This offers strategic alternatives for supply chains.
Rail and Infrastructure
Etihad Rail's network is crucial for domestic and regional freight movement. Its development supports the CEPA's focus on infrastructure. This connectivity helps Australian goods move efficiently across the UAE. This supports the goal of developing joint investments in infrastructure.
Strong Trade Growth
Non-oil trade between the two countries shows significant recent growth. It reached US$4.21 billion in 2024. This figure grew to US$4.3 billion in the first nine months of 2025. This represents a strong year-on-year growth of 32.4%. Projections suggest the CEPA could triple non-oil trade. The target is US$15 billion by 2032.
- Key Commitments:
- Eliminate tariffs on over 99% of Australian exports to the UAE.
- Lock in market access for Australian service suppliers.
- Foster cooperation in technology, agriculture, and tourism.
Under-Secretary Fahad Al Gergawi stressed the JEC's role in supporting SMEs. The committee will work to identify and remove trade obstacles. Findings will be reviewed at the third JEC meeting. This ensures the partnership remains dynamic and effective.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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