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The United Arab Emirates and the Democratic Republic of Congo have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, marking a strategic milestone in expanding the UAE’s trade network across Africa. According to Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, the comprehensive economic partnership agreement represents a crucial step in strengthening the UAE’s economic presence in Central Africa, a region with significant growth potential. The agreement was formalized on February 3, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, as reported by the Emirates News Agency.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that the Democratic Republic of Congo ranks among Africa’s ten largest economies, with a gross domestic product of approximately $70.75 billion. The country’s projected economic growth is expected to reach 5.1% during 2025, surpassing the global average and highlighting its importance as a trading partner for the UAE.
Strategic Importance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
The comprehensive economic partnership agreement opens extensive opportunities for economic cooperation with a region rich in natural resources seeking to accelerate development through foreign direct investment. According to the minister, the agreement will particularly support bilateral trade in precious stones, minerals, mining, and agriculture sectors. These industries form the backbone of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s export economy and align closely with UAE business interests.
The Democratic Republic of Congo occupies a pivotal position in global supply chains as the world’s leading cobalt producer, accounting for over 70% of global supplies. Additionally, the country is Africa’s largest copper producer and a major source of strategic minerals including gold, tin, tantalum, and tungsten. These materials are essential for electric vehicle manufacturing, electronics, and energy transition technologies, making the partnership particularly valuable for future-oriented industries.
Growing Trade Relations and Investment Projects
Non-oil trade between the UAE and the Democratic Republic of Congo reached $2.9 billion during 2025, achieving 16.1% growth compared to 2024, according to official statements. The UAE’s primary exports include petroleum products, paints, clothing, food products, consumer goods, and construction materials. This diverse export portfolio demonstrates the breadth of commercial ties between both nations.
Meanwhile, several strategic investment projects have been launched over the past five years. These include a $1.9 billion mining sector partnership agreement signed in 2023 and International Resources Holding’s acquisition of Alfamin Resources in 2025. Furthermore, Emirati investors have committed resources to copper and cobalt smelters, gold shipping operations, and artisanal mineral projects across the country.
Infrastructure Development and Logistics Expansion
The logistics sector plays a central role in bilateral cooperation, with DP World developing the deep-sea port of Banana through a $1.2 billion investment. Operations at the port are expected to commence in late 2026 or early 2027, according to ministerial statements. This infrastructure project will significantly enhance the Democratic Republic of Congo’s connectivity to global shipping routes.
In addition to its resource wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s central geographic location bordering nine African nations provides a competitive advantage as a strategic entry point for expanding trade throughout Central and Eastern Africa. This positioning enhances the value proposition of the comprehensive economic partnership agreement for UAE businesses seeking regional expansion.
Supporting UAE Economic Objectives
Dr. Al Zeyoudi confirmed that the agreement supports the UAE’s economic agenda, which targets raising foreign trade value to 4 trillion dirhams by 2031 and doubling export value during the same period. The partnership achieves these goals through eliminating or reducing customs duties, removing unnecessary trade barriers, opening markets for service trade, enhancing digital commerce, and establishing effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
However, the agreement also strengthens the UAE’s position as a global supply chain hub connecting Arab, European, Asian, and African markets. Extensive opportunities will become available for service sectors including business services, logistics, construction, engineering, healthcare, education, environmental services, finance, telecommunications, tourism, and travel.
Benefits for Small and Medium Enterprises
Supporting small and medium enterprises represents a shared priority under the comprehensive economic partnership agreement, according to Dr. Al Zeyoudi. The agreement will reduce trade restrictions facing exports from these companies while providing platforms for collaboration between support centers, business incubators, growth accelerators, and startups. Additionally, it will enhance the exchange of trade-related data, legislation, and relevant procedures to maximize opportunities for smaller businesses.
The agreement awaits ratification processes in both countries before implementation can begin, though specific timelines have not been officially confirmed by authorities.
