Trade agreement progress
UAE Chad trade deal to be finalised by the end of 2025. The agreement falls under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) framework, aimed at boosting trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the two countries. UAE Foreign Trade Minister Thani Al Zeyoudi announced in Abu Dhabi that market access discussions are in advanced stages, with the signing expected within the year. Bilateral trade between the UAE and Chad has already surged more than 30% in the past year, reaching $1.9 billion.
Chad’s development initiative
On the same occasion, Chad unveiled its national development plan, Chad Connection 2030, designed to attract $30 billion in public and private investments. Supported by the International Monetary Fund, this initiative focuses on key sectors including infrastructure, energy, mining, agriculture, logistics, and financial services. Chad’s Finance Minister, Tahir Hamid Nguilin, expressed optimism about securing funds, highlighting the UAE’s role as a key investor.
Investment agreements
During the UAE-Chad Trade and Investment Forum, over 39 agreements were signed between businesses from both countries, mainly led by UAE companies. These agreements collectively represent potential investments worth more than $6.2 billion if fully realized. This investment boost highlights sustained efforts to deepen economic ties and support Chad’s growth trajectory.
Broader African engagement
Alongside the deal with Chad, the UAE is advancing CEPA negotiations with other African nations, including Nigeria and Rwanda. These agreements are part of the UAE’s broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil, expand international trade links, and stimulate sustainable development through partnerships.
Economic diversification strategy
The UAE aims to significantly increase its non-oil trade volume to $1 trillion by 2031 while doubling the economy’s size to over $800 billion. Trade agreements such as the one with Chad are fundamental to this vision, fostering diversified economic relations and strengthening global partnerships.
The UAE-Chad trade deal reflects a growing economic collaboration that supports bilateral trade growth and Chad’s ambitious development goals. The agreement aligns closely with the UAE’s long-term economic diversification and investment strategies, signaling a robust partnership for future prosperity.
