UAE and Benin Sign Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, Strengthen Africa-Middle East Trade Ties
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to expand its global trade network by forging significant new partnerships on the African continent. In a landmark move, the UAE has signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Benin, a nation recognized for its rapid economic growth and strategic role as a gateway to West Africa through the Port of Cotonou.
According to Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade, “Benin, with a GDP growth of around 7.5% in 2025, and an economy supported by manufacturing, services, and an ambitious industrialization agenda centered on the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone, presents an exciting opportunity for our exporters and investors.”
The data showcases the rapidly evolving trade relationship between the two nations:
- Non-oil trade between the UAE and Benin reached US$2.15 billion in 2025, marking a 65% year-on-year increase.
- Bilateral trade has more than doubled since 2021, encompassing goods such as gold, cashew nuts, vehicles, and consumer goods.
- This upward trend persisted into 2026, with bilateral trade up 37.4% in the first half of the year.
The new CEPA is set to build on these robust foundations, opening fresh avenues for businesses across agriculture, food production, infrastructure, and precious metals. It will also provide Benin’s exporters and investors with enhanced access to the UAE’s renowned global trade and logistics networks.
As emphasized by Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, “As our CEPA program grows, so does the range of possibilities for our private sector.”
This partnership underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering strong commercial links with Africa, accelerating free trade, and building resilient supply chains. It also positions Benin as a vital hub for regional trade, connecting landlocked neighbors with international markets.
With the expansion of the UAE’s CEPA network, both countries anticipate significant benefits for their economies, investors, and key sectors, highlighting the growing importance of Africa-Middle East trade relations for sustainable and inclusive growth.
Team V.4-LKDN-UAE
