UAE Reaffirms Global Trade Commitment at G20 Meeting

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, reaffirmed the UAE’s belief that open, rules-based trade is vital for long-term global development. He spoke at the G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting (TIMM) held in Gqeberha, South Africa. The UAE joined the discussions as a specially invited guest of South Africa, which currently holds the G20 presidency.

G20 Platform to Discuss Global Trade Challenges

The G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting serves as the main platform for member countries to discuss trade and investment policies. The meeting’s outcomes will guide discussions at the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit. Topics included the role of industrialization in sustainable development, inclusive trade growth, and the need for reforms in the World Trade Organization (WTO) to make the global trading system more balanced and fair.

UAE Calls for Stronger Supply Chains

Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized the need for collaboration among nations to tackle today’s global trade challenges. He said that supply chains must be made stronger, more transparent, and accessible to all nations. He explained that open supply chains help economies grow faster and ensure that every country benefits equally from international trade opportunities.

Ensuring Inclusivity and Sustainable Growth

In his speech, Dr. Al Zeyoudi stressed that global trade policies must include developing countries and address their specific needs. He said the UAE supports trade systems that create opportunities for all, while promoting sustainable growth and resilience. He also pointed out that trade policies must be aligned across international organizations to achieve a balanced global economy.

UAE’s CEPA Program Receives Global Recognition

During the meeting, a joint UNCTAD-OECD investment report recognized the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) program as a model for promoting international trade and investment. The report praised the UAE’s CEPAs with India, Australia, Türkiye, and New Zealand as examples of successful trade partnerships that encourage cooperation in clean energy, digital transformation, and public health.

Expanding Trade Partnerships Around the World

Since launching its CEPA program in 2021, the UAE has concluded 31 trade agreements with economies from different regions and stages of development. Dr. Al Zeyoudi revealed that the UAE has also begun CEPA talks with at least 10 African nations, some of which have already reached advanced stages. These agreements are helping to build stronger regional value chains and enhance Africa’s participation in global trade.

UAE’s Global Investment in Renewable Energy

Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted that the UAE has invested US$16.8 billion in renewable energy projects across 70 countries. This commitment reflects the nation’s dedication to supporting sustainable industrialization and ensuring access to clean energy. He explained that such efforts not only promote environmental protection but also strengthen global economic resilience.

UAE’s Growing Trade with G20 Economies

The UAE’s growing trade relations with G20 member countries show its increasing role as a major global trade hub. In the first half of 2025, the UAE’s non-oil trade with G20 nations exceeded US$231 billion, marking a 19.2% rise compared to the same period in 2024. By the end of 2024, the UAE’s total non-oil foreign trade reached US$816.9 billion, showing a 14.6% increase from 2023—nearly five times faster than the global trade growth rate.

UAE Strengthens International Cooperation

On the sidelines of the meeting, Dr. Al Zeyoudi held bilateral discussions with several global trade leaders. He met WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and senior officials from South Korea, Japan, the European Union, Canada, Indonesia, and Switzerland. These meetings focused on enhancing cooperation, improving investment opportunities, and exploring new trade routes that support inclusive growth.

Commitment to Global Partnerships

Dr. Al Zeyoudi reaffirmed that the UAE will continue to play a strong role in shaping global trade rules that benefit all countries. He said, “The G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting is a vital platform to identify global trade challenges and work collectively toward practical solutions. The UAE will keep promoting open, transparent, and inclusive trade systems that drive sustainable development and long-term prosperity.”

UAE’s Vision for the Future of Trade

The UAE’s participation in the G20 meeting reflects its clear vision for the future of global trade—one that promotes fairness, sustainability, and innovation. Through initiatives like the CEPA program and renewable energy investments, the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a trusted global partner and a driving force in shaping the future of international commerce.