CEPA will lower tariffs and promote growth in trade, investment, and the private sector.
Dubai: The UAE–Ukraine Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has come into effect, paving the way for reduced tariffs and improved market access between the two countries.
The agreement, effective from July 1, is expected to boost trade and investment between the UAE and Ukraine, while expanding business access to goods, services, and growth opportunities in both markets.
Under the CEPA, 99% of Ukrainian imports from the UAE and 97% of Ukrainian exports to the UAE will be exempt from customs duties immediately.
Strengthening trade ties with Europe
The UAE said the agreement represents a significant step in deepening economic relations with Ukraine, a key European market, while reinforcing the Emirates’ position as a global trade hub.
Non-oil trade between the UAE and Ukraine reached $346.8 million in 2025. The agreement aims to restore this momentum after bilateral non-oil trade peaked at $904.4 million in 2021.
The CEPA is projected to add $369 million to the UAE’s GDP and $874 million to Ukraine’s GDP by 2031.
Tariff reductions and market access
The agreement will remove or lower tariffs on a broad range of goods and services, making it easier for businesses to access each other’s markets and expand internationally.
It is also expected to strengthen private sector cooperation, with companies and entrepreneurs in both countries benefiting from clearer trade channels and improved investment opportunities.
“The UAE–Ukraine CEPA marks a landmark moment in our economic partnership,” said Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade. “The agreement is intended to revitalise trade flows, unlock new investment opportunities, and encourage collaboration across key sectors, benefiting both nations. By aligning our economic strategies, we can drive resilient and sustainable growth in an evolving global landscape.”
The Ukraine agreement forms part of the UAE’s wider trade strategy, which seeks to expand the country’s global economic footprint and raise total trade value to $1 trillion by 2031.
The UAE has now concluded 37 trade agreements, 17 of which are already in effect.
