Abu Dhabi:The UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially come into force, marking a significant step in enhancing trade relations between the two nations. The agreement eliminates tariffs on the majority of product lines, harmonizes customs procedures, and reduces barriers to trade, thereby facilitating economic exchange.
According to Wam, this agreement is strategically designed to boost trade flows and facilitate bilateral investment, particularly in sectors such as logistics, energy, and manufacturing. The DRC, recognized as one of Africa's ten largest economies with a GDP of $122.28 billion and a growth rate of 5.2%, is poised to benefit significantly from this partnership. Its geographical position as a neighbor to nine countries makes it a vital entry point for trade expansion across Central and Eastern Africa.
The DRC is a leading global producer of cobalt, contributing over 70% to the world's supply, and is Africa's top producer of copper. Additionally, it is a significant supplier of gold, tin, tantalum, and tungsten, all essential for electrical components and energy transition technologies.
This CEPA builds upon the existing bilateral relations, which saw non-oil trade reach $3.5 billion in 2025, a 38.5% increase from the previous year. The UAE exports vehicles, machinery, electronics, and construction materials to the DRC, while serving as a conduit for Congolese exports, including metals, food, cotton, and other agricultural products.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, commented on the significance of the agreement, stating that it offers the UAE's private sector a crucial access point to Africa. He emphasized the UAE's commitment to connecting its market with high-potential economies globally, highlighting the CEPA's role in advancing trade, fostering private-sector collaborations, and forming strategic partnerships.
The CEPA program is a cornerstone of the UAE's economic vision, aiming to establish robust trading relationships with dynamic markets worldwide. The UAE has completed CEPAs with 40 countries, with 20 currently in force.