The UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo entered into force on Friday, removing tariffs on the vast majority of product lines, state news agency WAM reported.
Non-oil trade between the two countries reached $3.5 billion in 2025, up 38.5% from 2024.
The agreement also harmonizes customs procedures and reduces trade barriers. It is designed to support bilateral investment in logistics, energy and manufacturing.
Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, said the deal gives the UAE’s private sector an important access point to Africa.
“The entry into force of our CEPA with the Democratic Republic of Congo signals another significant stride forward in our growth agenda,” Al Zeyoudi said.
Trade and minerals
The DRC is an important market for UAE exports of vehicles, machinery, electronics and construction materials. The UAE serves as a conduit for Congolese exports ranging from metals to food, cotton and other agricultural products.
The DRC accounts for more than 70% of global cobalt supply and is Africa’s leading copper producer, according to WAM. It also produces gold, tin, tantalum and tungsten.
WAM put the DRC’s gross domestic product at $122.28 billion and its growth rate at 5.2%. The country borders nine nations, which the UAE sees as a route into Central and Eastern Africa.
The agreement was signed on February 2 at Qasr Al Shatie in Abu Dhabi by Al Zeyoudi and Julien Paluku Kahongya, the DRC’s Minister for International Trade. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi attended the signing.
The UAE has now concluded comprehensive economic partnership agreements with 40 countries, 20 of which are in force.
