UAE and EU agree to launch negotiations on free trade agreement

The UAE and the EU have agreed to launch discussions on a free trade agreement. It comes amid the uncertainties created by US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs. He has since put a pause on some of the tariffs.

UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently held a cordial phone call. During their discussions, both sides decided to launch free trade talks, according to official statements from both sides.

His Highness also highlighted that the agreement to launch talks in relation to a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (Cepa) involving the EU is aimed at deepening bilateral relations and promoting economic development.

The upcoming Cepa negotiations are going to focus on trade in goods, services, investment and deepening cooperation in multiple sectors of strategic importance, such as clean energy, green hydrogen and critical minerals.