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The United Arab Emirates and the Gabonese Republic have signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement that marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral trade relations between the two nations. According to Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, the UAE Gabon economic partnership agreement represents a qualitative step toward enhancing economic and commercial cooperation while opening new avenues for joint investment in priority sectors including mining, food production, and services.
The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi on February 7, 2026, according to a statement released by the Emirates News Agency. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that Gabon represents a promising economic partner for the UAE, supported by stable growth fundamentals with a gross domestic product of approximately 20.6 billion dollars in 2024 and projected growth of around 3 percent in 2025.
Strategic Importance of UAE Gabon Economic Partnership
The minister highlighted that natural resources form a fundamental pillar of the Gabonese economy, with raw materials accounting for more than 90 percent of total exports. These exports include oil and its derivatives, manganese used in steel manufacturing and fertilizer production, timber and forest products, and agricultural products such as cocoa, coffee, palm oil, and rubber.
Additionally, Gabon launched an Accelerated Transformation Plan in 2021 valued at 5.5 billion dollars, according to Al Zeyoudi. The initiative aims to promote economic diversification and stimulate non-oil sectors through targeted investments in mining, forestry, and agriculture, while prioritizing infrastructure development, digitization, education, skills development, and improving the business environment.
Growing Trade Relations Between the Nations
The comprehensive economic partnership agreement will contribute to strengthening the UAE’s presence in resource-rich West Africa and supporting bilateral trade growth, the minister stated. Non-oil trade between the two countries reached approximately 320.7 million dollars in 2025, representing growth compared to 2024 and more than double the value recorded in 2021.
Meanwhile, Gabon’s main non-oil exports to the UAE include manganese, rubber, and timber. The agreement aims to eliminate or reduce customs duties, minimize unnecessary trade barriers, and expand market access for service exports, according to the foreign trade minister.
Framework and Implementation of the Partnership Agreement
The partnership establishes an organized framework for digital trade and creates a clear mechanism for dispute resolution, which enhances the business climate and stimulates mutual investments. Al Zeyoudi explained that the agreement would strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for supply chains and a key connection point between the Arab world, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Furthermore, the deal is expected to support cooperation between private sectors in several service industries including logistics, construction, engineering, healthcare, education, environment, financial services, and telecommunications. These expanded service sector opportunities represent significant potential for businesses in both nations seeking to diversify their international operations.
Benefits and Expected Economic Impact
However, the minister noted that both sides will commence ratification procedures following the signing, with the agreement entering into force after completion by both parties. The benefits are expected to begin appearing immediately upon implementation through simplified customs procedures, reduced tariffs, and enhanced access for goods and services to markets in both countries.
In contrast to traditional trade agreements that focus solely on goods, this comprehensive partnership encompasses a broader range of economic activities. The expanded scope supports shared economic growth and strengthens the strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and the Gabonese Republic, according to official statements.
The exact timeline for ratification and implementation remains subject to completion of domestic procedures by both governments. Officials have not confirmed a specific date when the agreement will take full effect, though authorities indicated that preparatory work would begin immediately following the signing ceremony.
