UAE-Serbia Trade: $351M CEPA Deal Launched
- A Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement (CEPA) between the United Arab Emirates and Serbia has taken effect, strengthening economic bonds between the two countries.
- Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of state for Foreign Trade, said the CEPA marks a new era in economic relations.
- The UAE-Serbia CEPA aims to increase non-oil trade, which reached $121.4 million in 2024, doubling the 2021 level.
The UAE and Serbia have launched a Complete Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) designed to substantially boost non-oil trade and investment. This pivotal agreement anticipates adding $351 million to the UAE’s GDP by 2031, with a focus on key sectors such as renewable energy and agriculture. The CEPA eliminates or reduces duties on over 96% of tariff lines, thereby enhancing market access and fostering private sector partnerships. The UAE views Serbia as a strategic partner,and this deal is poised to increase foreign direct investment. As Serbia’s primary trade partner in the Gulf Cooperation Council, the UAE’s commitment to its CEPA program is set to increase non-oil trade to $1.1 trillion by 2031, as reported by News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for this powerful partnership.
UAE-Serbia Trade Deal to Boost Economic Ties, Investment
Updated June 1, 2025
A Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement (CEPA) between the United Arab Emirates and Serbia has taken effect, strengthening economic bonds between the two countries. The agreement is designed to stimulate trade and investment across multiple sectors.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of state for Foreign Trade, said the CEPA marks a new era in economic relations. He anticipates increased collaboration, investment, and trade, benefiting both nations by creating jobs and strengthening supply chains.
The UAE-Serbia CEPA aims to increase non-oil trade, which reached $121.4 million in 2024, doubling the 2021 level. Projections suggest the agreement will add $351 million to the UAE’s GDP by 2031. The agreement eliminates or reduces customs duties on over 96% of tariff lines, improving market access and encouraging private sector partnerships.
The UAE considers Serbia a key partner,citing its diverse economy and strategic location as a gateway to Eastern Europe and the Balkans. The CEPA is expected to boost trade, increase private sector collaboration, and promote investments in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, and technology.
The UAE is Serbia’s primary trade partner in the Gulf Cooperation Council, accounting for about 55% of Serbia’s total trade with the region in 2023. increased foreign direct investment in high-growth sectors has further strengthened the relationship.
What’s next
Both countries are now positioned to leverage the CEPA to foster economic growth and create opportunities for their citizens. The UAE’s CEPA program aims to increase total non-oil trade to $1.1 trillion by 2031 and double the size of its economy to $800 billion.