UAE-Serbia CEPA officially comes into force

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Serbia has officially come into force, marking a significant milestone in the deepening of economic ties between the two nations. The agreement is set to foster enhanced trade and investment flows, paving the way for collaboration across a wide variety of priority sectors.

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Dr Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the CEPA's implementation, stating, "The activation of the UAE-Serbia CEPA heralds a new chapter in our economic relations, creating new avenues for collaboration, investment and trade that will benefit both our nations. Through this agreement we are committed to unlocking significant opportunities that will create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and facilitate a thriving environment for businesses in both countries."

The UAE-Serbia CEPA aims to boost bilateral non-oil trade, which reached approximately $121.4 million in 2024, double the level of trade when compared to 2021, with projections indicating a substantial increase in bilateral trade that will contribute $351 million to UAE GDP by 2031. This growth is anticipated through the elimination and reduction of custom duties for over 968 of tariff lines, thereby enhancing market access and fostering a more conducive environment for private sector collaboration.