iscover
The Australian government has announced its first trade agreement in the Middle East with the United Arab Emirates.
Australia passed the necessary legislation to incorporate the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement into law at the end of July this year.
When fully implemented, over 99 per cent of Australian products will enter the UAE tariff-free, including minerals, meat, dairy and grains.
“We are a trading nation. More trade means more higher-paying jobs, more opportunities for businesses, greater investment and cheaper bills for Australian households,” Minister for Trade and Tourism Senator Don Farrell said.
“As Australia’s first trade agreement in the Middle East, this unlocks significant potential in the region.
“Passing this legislation is an important step in locking in the gains we’ve made which will deliver for Australian businesses, local jobs and Australian consumers.
“We will continue working closely with the UAE to bring it into force as soon as possible.”
The new pact is Australia’s first trade agreement in the Middle East region, and with the UAE as Australia’s largest trade and investment partner in the Middle East. Total trade between Australia and the UAE was worth $12.3 billion in 2024.
The deal is envisioned by the Australian government to open new export opportunities and create more well-paying local jobs through trade.
