Abu Dhabi Customs, UK Firm Join To Boost Global Trade Innovation

Abu Dhabi Customs has entered a new partnership with the UK-based Competere Group, a global consultancy specializing in economic policy and trade law. The agreement aims to strengthen innovation in trade facilitation and enhance global competitiveness through advanced technologies and future-oriented economic models. This collaboration will also help shape a business environment that supports sustainable international trade growth and efficient customs operations.

Partnership Witnessed by Senior UAE and UK Officials

The agreement was signed by Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, and Shanker Singham, Chief Executive Officer of Competere Group. The signing ceremony took place in London during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum, with Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), and Mansoor Abulhoul, UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom, in attendance. Their presence highlighted the growing economic and trade ties between the UAE and the UK.

Driving Innovation in Trade and Customs Operations

This collaboration reflects Abu Dhabi Customs’ strategy to lead innovation in customs operations through an integrated and digitally enabled ecosystem. The aim is to enhance trade efficiency, reliability, and transparency by introducing smart systems and technology-based customs solutions. Abu Dhabi Customs is committed to fostering a future-ready trade environment that supports global business growth and aligns with Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals.

A Step Toward Smarter and Sustainable Trade

Rashed Al Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, emphasized that the partnership aligns with Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision for trade facilitation and digital transformation. He said, “Trade facilitation and digital transformation are fundamental pillars of Abu Dhabi’s strategy. By collaborating with the private sector and international partners, we can share expertise, adopt global best practices, and develop smarter, more trusted trade systems that strengthen supply chain reliability and economic growth both locally and globally.”

His statement underlined Abu Dhabi’s dedication to becoming a world leader in digital customs innovation, while maintaining a balance between modernization and sustainability.

Competere Group’s Vision for Global Growth

Shanker Singham, Chief Executive Officer of Competere Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the new collaboration. He said, “We are pleased to partner with Abu Dhabi Customs to explore innovative approaches to trade facilitation and global competitiveness. Through robust public-private partnerships, we can design next-generation trade and regulatory models that unlock new economic opportunities and support sustainable global growth.”

Competere Group’s participation brings deep expertise in regulatory policy and economic design, ensuring that the partnership will introduce globally recognized frameworks and cutting-edge trade models tailored to the evolving global economy.

Enhancing Abu Dhabi’s Position as a Trade Hub

Through partnerships like this one, Abu Dhabi Customs continues to establish the emirate as a leading global hub for trade and logistics. The authority’s focus on efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in customs operations aims to attract international investment and reinforce the UAE’s position in global supply chains.

This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader economic goals under Vision 2030, which prioritize innovation, technology adoption, and collaboration with international partners to build a resilient, future-ready economy.

Fostering Public-Private Collaboration

The cooperation between Abu Dhabi Customs and Competere Group is also a strong example of how public-private partnerships can drive global economic progress. By combining government experience with private sector innovation, the agreement encourages the exchange of knowledge and the adoption of best practices that benefit both trade institutions and global enterprises.

This model of collaboration will likely inspire similar partnerships in other regions, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in building sustainable and competitive trade networks across borders.

Towards a Digitally Enabled Trade Future

With this agreement, Abu Dhabi Customs reaffirms its commitment to digital transformation and international collaboration. The integration of advanced technologies and data-driven customs systems will simplify trade processes, improve transparency, and reduce transaction times. These advancements not only support local businesses but also make Abu Dhabi a more attractive destination for global investors and traders seeking efficient, reliable, and future-ready trade environments.