UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with Costa Rica, Mauritius Come into Force

 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken another significant step in its global trade expansion strategy with the enforcement of its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) with Costa Rica and Mauritius. These agreements, which officially came into effect on April 1, 2025, mark an important milestone in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its economic ties with emerging markets and foster international trade collaborations.

Strengthening Global Trade Relations

The UAE’s CEPA framework is designed to enhance economic cooperation by reducing trade barriers, boosting investments, and creating new business opportunities. The agreements with Costa Rica and Mauritius are expected to open up new avenues for bilateral trade, investment flows, and technological exchange between the UAE and these two nations.

Key Benefits of the UAE-Costa Rica CEPA

Costa Rica, known for its strong agricultural sector and growing services industry, stands to benefit significantly from its trade partnership with the UAE. The CEPA aims to:

Eliminate or reduce tariffs on key exports, including agricultural and food products.

Facilitate smoother access to UAE’s markets for Costa Rican businesses.

Encourage investment in sectors such as tourism, technology, and renewable energy.

For the UAE, the agreement provides a gateway to strengthen its presence in Latin America, diversifying its import sources and investment destinations.

Key Benefits of the UAE-Mauritius CEPA

Mauritius, a strategic trade hub in the Indian Ocean, has long been an attractive destination for business and investment. Through this CEPA, both nations aim to:

Enhance trade in goods and services, particularly in financial services, textiles, and technology.

Promote bilateral investment by streamlining regulations and ensuring business-friendly policies.

Support growth in tourism, an essential sector for Mauritius, by facilitating travel and business exchanges between both nations.

The UAE’s Expanding CEPA Network

The enforcement of these agreements underscores the UAE’s ambitious trade strategy, which includes forming partnerships with key global markets. The country has already signed CEPAs with India, Indonesia, Israel, and Turkey, among others, demonstrating its commitment to positioning itself as a leading global trade hub.

The UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with Costa Rica and Mauritius highlight the nation’s dedication to strengthening its international economic ties. By fostering trade, reducing barriers, and encouraging investment, these agreements are set to bring long-term economic benefits to all parties involved. With these new partnerships, the UAE reaffirms its role as a pivotal player in global trade and economic growth.