Ports, shipping, aviation cargo, warehousing and trade
The Economic Partnership Agreement between the UAE and the Eurasian Economic Union officially took effect on 6 October 2026. The pact eliminates or lowers tariffs on over 86 percent of tariff lines, covering about 96 percent of traded goods value. Non-oil bilateral trade reached $33.6 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach nearly $50 billion by 2032.
China's outbound direct investment into the UAE reached $2.6 billion, more than tripling from the prior reporting year. Cumulative Chinese FDI stock in the Emirates rose to $12.47 billion, alongside bilateral non-oil trade surpassing $100 billion. The influx comes as Chinese enterprises, including China Securities, JINGDONG Property, and Momenta, expand operations in the UAE.
US President Donald Trump has adopted a low-key approach to negotiations with Iran, choosing to rely on economic pressure rather than new military strikes. The strategic shift leaves oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz in limbo despite ongoing shuttle tanker traffic. Energy infrastructure in the region faces persistent threats, including a missile attack on a UAE vessel and a fire at Saudi Arabia's Jazan refinery.
China is managing complex diplomatic and commercial balancing acts to protect vital Middle East oil routes as disruptions affect the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. While maintaining public neutrality, Beijing has engaged in private efforts to keep crude flowing from Gulf partners, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia. China remains one of the UAE's largest crude destinations, second only to Japan.
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