A landmark free trade agreement between Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is now in effect, marking a new era for the bilateral trade relationship.
The Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) entered into force on October 1, 2025, and will create new market access and investment opportunities for Australian and UAE businesses.
Once fully implemented, more than 99% of Australian exports will enter the UAE duty-free, saving Australian farmers, miners, manufacturers and other exporters $185 million in its first year alone.
“Our first trade deal in the Middle East provides Australian businesses with a competitive advantage in this fast-growing region,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“More trade means more opportunities for economic growth.
“As an important global logistics centre and hub, the UAE will serve as a gateway for Australia’s exports to the broader region and beyond.”
Key benefits for Australian businesses
The UAE is Australia’s largest trade and investment partner in the Middle East, with over $12.3 billion in two-way goods and services trade in 2024.
Independent modelling on behalf of the Government estimated the FTA would generate an additional $678m in Australian goods exports to enter the UAE annually.
Key goods and trade exports that will benefit from the FTA include:
- Food and beverage products – dairy, red meat, wine, canola seeds, pulses, horticultural products and honey
- Industrial products – aluminium, gold, vehicle parts, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and jewellery
- Services – professional (including legal, accounting, marketing, consulting), science, finance, health (including dental and veterinarian), education and tourism
It will also help attract major sovereign wealth funds to Australia and will facilitate investment opportunities across the economy, including in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, agriculture and minerals.
CCIWA’s International Trade Services team helps businesses reduce the time, cost and risk of going global. Contact the team for a free consultation on 08 9365 7620 or via [email protected].
