Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, stated based on initial data that the UAE-Turkey CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) has propelled non-oil trade between both nations to $44 billion in its second year, underscoring the strength of their growing economic alliance.
Describing the pact, Dr. Al Zeyoudi said that the fifth deal of new UAE-Turkey trade agenda calls for a trillion-dollar economy, whose growth vision is rooted in advanced technology, strong investment, and a strategic global position.
The UAE-Turkey CEPA, signed in March 2023 and in force since September that year, has exceeded expectations and reinforced the UAE’s wider trade diversification strategy. During the first 12 months of UAE-Turkey CEPA, bilateral non-oil trade had surged to $40 billion, a 42 percent increase from the pre-CEPA period, achieving the five-year target within 18 months.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi noted that the progress continued into its second year, with preliminary figures reflecting a 12 percent rise, reaching $44 billion between September 2024 and August 2025, despite global supply chain challenges and economic headwinds.
The UAE-Turkey CEPA has eliminated or reduced tariffs on 82 percent of product lines, streamlined customs procedures, and opened new channels for private sector collaboration in key industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy. UAE-Turkey CEPA has surpassed every forecast and, perhaps most importantly, overcome every obstacle in today’s complex trading landscape, Dr. Al Zeyoudi said.
Investments between both nations have also accelerated with the implementation of UAE-Turkey CEPA, the foreign minister stated. Among notable transactions over the past 18 months are DP World’s merger with the Evyap Group to boost port handling capacity, ADQ’s acquisition of Odeabank, and the opening of Noatum Maritime offices in Turkey to enhance logistics capabilities.
In July 2023, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had signed seven new cooperation agreements and endorsed a $51 billion investment package , which are aimed at promoting economic stability and development. Projects under this framework are beginning to materialize across sectors, reinforcing bilateral ties between both nations.
The minister stressed that CEPA is still in its early stages, with vast potential ahead. While it has opened the door to greater cooperation, business communities must be supported to fully seize these opportunities. He noted that in July, leaders of both nations met in Abu Dhabi to sign seven new agreements in tourism, hospitality, pharmaceuticals, industry, manufacturing, and food and agriculture, aimed at driving fresh projects and strengthening bilateral partnerships.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi UAE Minister of Foreign Trade
What we have seen in the last two years is a significant step in UAE-Turkey relations, but there are many more milestones to reach. The record trade volumes, the concluded deals, and the investment pledges to date will ensure we keep striding forward together.”
(Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi mentions this in his article published in The National News)
Key business benefits of UAE-Turkey CEPA
Providing better market access for UAE products to Turkey in the market, covering more than 83 percent of tariff lines and 93 percent value of trade with Turkey.
An open and non-discriminatory environment for cross-border trade with Turkey.
Enhanced market access for UAE’s service providers.
The removal of unnecessary technical barriers (TBT) for UAE and Turkish exporters.
The use of international standards as a basis for technical regulations.
Assurance that UAE products will not be subject to Turkey’s anti-dumping investigations as such products are merely transshipped.
A Joint Committee to assess, revise and propose amendments to the CEPA, including improving market access.
The UAE-Turkey CEPA reflects robust ties between the nations, which in recent years have seen joint economic collaboration in dynamic, high-growth sectors, including financial services, agriculture, logistics, transport, and tourism.
