Source : WAM
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, stated that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Ecuador represents a strategic milestone in enhancing bilateral economic and trade relations, aligning with sustainable development priorities and fostering deeper integration into global markets.
In an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Al Zeyoudi highlighted that trade and investment ties between the two nations continue to strengthen, with non-oil trade reaching US$373.6 million in 2025 a 3.2 percent increase compared to 2024 and more than three times the level recorded in 2019.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that the UAE is Ecuador’s largest trading partner across the Arab world and Africa, accounting for approximately 30 percent of Ecuador’s total trade with countries in these regions combined.
He noted that the two countries have also signed an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, designed to create a transparent and stable environment for foreign direct investment. The agreement aims to reduce risks, protect intellectual property rights, and establish clear frameworks for dispute resolution, reflecting the strength of bilateral ties and providing a robust platform for facilitating trade, investment, and networking.
Additionally, he highlighted the opening of Ecuador’s trade office in Dubai to support enhanced cooperation with the private sector.
Al Zeyoudi affirmed that the CEPA is set to eliminate or reduce customs duties on over 96 percent of traded goods and products, improving market access for exports and reinforcing supply chains.
He explained that the agreement establishes a trade and investment corridor linking the UAE with Latin American markets, while leveraging the UAE’s position as a global trade hub to help Ecuadorian companies expand into markets across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The deal is also expected to boost investments in key sectors, strengthen private sector partnerships, and enhance collaboration among small and medium-sized enterprises.
Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi added that the agreement offers benefits across multiple sectors, with clear complementarity in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, technology, food production, advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, mining, education, capacity building, tourism, and hospitality.
He further noted that existing collaboration in the logistics sector provides a strong foundation for further expansion under the CEPA.
