UAE, Gabon Boost Trade Talks During Minister Al Zeyoudi Visit

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, visited Gabon for high-level meetings aimed at strengthening economic relations between the two countries. During the visit, he met President General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and conveyed the warm greetings of the UAE leadership, wishing the people of Gabon continued peace and progress. Al Zeyoudi, accompanied by UAE Ambassador Salem Al Shamsi, discussed ways to expand cooperation in major sectors such as energy, mining, logistics, and digitalisation.

As part of the visit, Al Zeyoudi also held separate meetings with several Gabonese ministers, including Gilles Nembe, Minister of Mining and Energy; Louise Mvono, Minister of Petroleum and Planning; and Arthur Lemami, Director of Cabinet for the President. These discussions focused on creating new opportunities for collaboration that would support long-term economic development in both countries.

The UAE’s non-oil trade with Gabon reached US$238.1 million in the first nine months of 2025, marking a strong 36.9% increase compared to 2023. This growth reflects the rising potential for deeper economic engagement and shows the success of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral partnerships. Al Zeyoudi said the visit highlights the UAE’s commitment to expanding its relationship with Gabon and building opportunities that encourage sustainable economic growth.

Both nations emphasised the importance of boosting trade and investment flows during their meetings. They also looked at new areas where private sector cooperation can grow, especially through the UAE’s CEPA programme. This programme uses trade and investment partnerships to support business expansion and economic progress. The UAE already has CEPA agreements with five African countries, with another one actively in force, and aims to widen its free trade network across the continent.

As discussions concluded, the UAE and Gabon expressed strong interest in future agreements that would further increase bilateral trade and investment. The UAE continues to strengthen its ties with African nations, recognising the continent’s significant role in global economic growth. In 2024, the UAE’s non-oil trade with Africa reached US$112 billion, up 34% from the previous year.

The UAE remains one of the largest investors in Africa, with over US$110 billion invested between 2019 and 2024. Through its growing partnerships and shared goals, the UAE aims to support sustainable, inclusive development across the continent while creating meaningful opportunities for both sides.