minister praises surge in $37.6 billion trade relationship with India during first half of 2025, as revealed by UAE's Minister of Foreign Trade.

In a significant move to bolster economic ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade of the UAE, recently visited Mumbai, India.

During his visit, Dr Al Zeyoudi was briefed on the progress of Bharat Mart, a 2.7 million sq. ft. facility being developed in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) by DP World. The Bharat Mart complex, developed and operated by Bharat Group - a UAE-based conglomerate in collaboration with Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) - is intended to serve as a hub for Indian exporters, enabling them to showcase products and use the UAE’s position as a global trade centre to reach markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

The UAE-India trip underscored the shared commitment of both countries to build stronger economic links, drive trade growth, and support mutual prosperity through long-term cooperation. A business roundtable was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), and ASSOCHAM to promote greater trade and investment flows.

Dr Al Zeyoudi met with Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, to discuss the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and India. The UAE-India CEPA, which came into force in 2022, is being reviewed for expanding opportunities in various sectors. Dr Al Zeyoudi emphasized the need to continue leveraging complementary strengths for broad-based opportunities for private sectors, stating that CEPA has already delivered clear results.

In addition to discussions on CEPA, Dr Al Zeyoudi held meetings with leaders from the pharmaceutical and food sectors, as well as stakeholders from the logistics, agriculture, healthcare, and technology industries. Discussions during the meetings revolved around export performance, market challenges, and opportunities for deeper cooperation between the UAE and India.

The bilateral non-oil trade between the UAE and India reached $37.6 billion in the first half of 2025, marking a 33.9% rise compared to the same period last year. This growth underscores the growing economic partnership between the two nations.

Dr Al Zeyoudi attended a reception with Indian business and industry leaders to strengthen collaboration between the two countries' private sectors. The visit reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to foster a strong and mutually beneficial economic relationship. The development of Bharat Mart in Jafza is a testament to this commitment, providing a platform for Indian exporters to reach global markets and contribute to the UAE's position as a global trade hub.

minister praises surge in $37.6 billion trade relationship with India during first half of 2025, as revealed by UAE's Minister of Foreign Trade.