Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates are reportedly in the final stages of signing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and removing longstanding business obstacles.
Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry, UAE Ambassador Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi said the CEPA would significantly strengthen economic ties, streamline trade processes, and create new investment opportunities for both countries.
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He highlighted that the existing trade volume of $8–10 billion does not reflect the full potential, adding that the UAE has a “clear directive” to double bilateral trade in the near future.
Al Zaabi also noted that the Emirates is expanding investments in Pakistan across key sectors, including infrastructure, ports, aviation, agriculture, minerals, and railways, aiming to create long-term economic growth and regional connectivity.
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Discussions with Pakistan’s Railway Ministry are progressing, with plans for enhanced supply chain connectivity from northern regions to Karachi, including a potential dry port, while the Joint Business Council is being reactivated to improve institutional cooperation.
The ambassador further outlined efforts to streamline visa procedures, improve skilled labor mobility, and promote digital solutions, reflecting the UAE’s shift toward an AI-driven and fully digitized economy with nearly all government services online.