Zimbabwe and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are on the verge of concluding a landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a free trade pact expected to significantly deepen bilateral ties and boost trade. This comes as bilateral trade between the two nations has already surged by 74 percent over the past two years, reaching an impressive US$7 billion.
Discussions between Zimbabwean officials and UAE Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, highlighted the mutual commitment to expanding economic and diplomatic relations. The proposed agreement aims to create a robust framework for increased trade, investment, and market access, with Zimbabwe having already submitted its comments on the draft agreement.
The CEPA is anticipated to consolidate gains in bilateral trade, improve market access, facilitate investment, and unlock new opportunities for businesses in both countries. The UAE has emerged as Zimbabwe’s leading export destination, accounting for half of the country’s export earnings—US$1.4 billion—during the first three months of the year, primarily driven by minerals and horticultural products.
Beyond trade, Harare and Abu Dhabi intend to broaden their relations into crucial sectors such as tourism, infrastructure, and other productive areas, aligning with Zimbabwe’s ‘open for business’ economic diplomacy strategy.
Key Players Involved
- Zimbabwean Government: Actively pursuing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost trade and investment.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): A key partner looking to deepen economic and diplomatic ties with Zimbabwe.
- President Mnangagwa: Met with UAE Minister of State to discuss strengthening relations.
- Professor Amon Murwira (Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister): Emphasized the remarkable growth in economic ties and the impetus for concluding the CEPA.
Event Timeline
- August 8, 2026: UAE Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan paid a courtesy call on President Mnangagwa to discuss deepening economic and diplomatic relations.
- Recently: Zimbabwe submitted its comments on the draft CEPA agreement, clearing the way for further negotiations.
- Upcoming Weeks/Months: Negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are expected to conclude.
