Post by : Mumtaaz
Qadiri
India and the United Arab Emirates have taken another big step to grow their economic partnership. A high-level meeting was held in Dubai by the UAE-India Business Council (UIBC-UC). It was attended by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi. Their presence showed how seriously both governments value this partnership.
CEPA’s Record-Breaking Impact
The meeting mainly focused on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This trade agreement has already transformed the India-UAE economic relationship. In just the first six months of 2025, non-oil trade between the two nations reached a record US$37.6 billion, marking a 33.9% rise compared to the same period last year. This shows how CEPA is creating strong momentum and opening new opportunities for businesses.
Growth Across Key Sectors
CEPA is not only about higher trade volumes. It has also supported the growth of many sectors. Industries such as gems and jewellery, food processing, telecom, green energy, and digital services have all seen major benefits. The agreement has also encouraged new areas of collaboration in artificial intelligence, space technology, sustainability, and financial integration, giving the partnership a modern and futuristic shape.
Opportunities For Indian States And SMEs
Indian states are also making the most of CEPA. They are using it to attract more investments, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and boost exports. This has created stronger links between India’s local economies and global markets, showing how the partnership is becoming more inclusive and beneficial at all levels.
UAE As A Preferred Investment Hub
The UAE has also become a top investment destination for wealthy Indian families and entrepreneurs. High-net-worth individuals and family offices from India are choosing the UAE for its stability and opportunities. This has created strong financial synergies and new joint ventures, which will further strengthen long-term cooperation.
New Research Initiative On CEPA
During the meeting, the UIBC-UC launched a major new research report titled “Strength in Synergy: Unlocking India-UAE CEPA Global Potential.” The paper highlights how CEPA is no longer just a trade agreement but a broad model for global cooperation. It stresses that shared vision and political will are helping both nations move toward innovation and leadership on the world stage.
Building On Historical Ties
The report builds on UIBC-UC’s 2023 publication “The India-UAE Odyssey,” which explained the historical and cultural foundations of this partnership. The 2025 paper goes further, offering a detailed analysis of how CEPA is working in practice, its real benefits, and its future global role.
Global Role Of CEPA
Both India and the UAE are important members of international groups like BRICS, G20, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). Because of this, CEPA can also help shape global trade rules, economic policies, and sustainable development goals. The partnership is now seen as an example of how nations can work together for innovation and resilience.
Roadmap For The Future
The new report offers a clear plan for policymakers, businesses, and investors. It suggests stronger cooperation in clean energy, education, digital integration, research ecosystems, and human capital development. The message is clear: India and the UAE want to lead in building a modern, sustainable, and globally connected future.
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