Skip to content

Connecting business. Building understanding. Advancing peace.

Daily BriefVerify a certificateDue Diligence
Become a Member

UAE-DR Congo CEPA Enters into Force Following Bilateral Trade Growth

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the Democratic Republic of the Congo officially took effect on October 30. The agreement eliminates tariffs on most product lines and streamlines customs procedures following bilateral non-oil trade reaching $3.5 billion in 2025. It marks the UAE's 20th CEPA to enter into force under its trade expansion program.

Published Source: Arabian Business
Issuing authority
UAE Ministry of State for Foreign Trade
Jurisdiction
United Arab Emirates
Publication date
October 30, 2026
Effective date
October 30, 2026
Stage
Final rule
Official document
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
Illustration: Commercial freight cargo containers stacked high at an international port terminal under daylight, showcasing modern trade logistics inf
Illustration

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the Democratic Republic of the Congo officially entered into force on October 30, Arabian Business reported.

The bilateral agreement eliminates customs tariffs on the majority of product lines and simplifies cross-border customs procedures between the two countries.

The implementation comes after bilateral non-oil trade expanded by 38.5 percent in 2025, reaching a total of $3.5 billion.

UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi stated that the pact opens critical trade and investment channels for UAE businesses across sectors including logistics, energy, and manufacturing.

According to the report, this agreement represents the 20th CEPA to enter into force as part of the UAE's broader foreign trade expansion strategy.

Sources

More from Policy & Legal Updates

View all
Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Oman News Agency

Oman and China Discuss Expanding Investment Across Gulf Economic and Free Zones

Omani authorities and Chinese delegates met on October 31 to explore expanding bilateral trade and industrial investments in Gulf economic and free zones. Discussions emphasized regulatory incentives, port logistics, and links between Gulf businesses and China's Hainan Province. Both delegations also confirmed intentions to develop coordinated frameworks for foreign direct investment.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: The National

CBUAE Fines Foreign Bank Branch Dh200 Million Over Money Laundering Breaches

The Central Bank of the UAE has imposed a Dh200 million fine on an authorized foreign bank branch over recurring anti-money laundering violations. Individual fines of Dh500,000 and Dh300,000 were also issued against the bank's CEO and compliance head, respectively. Regulators mandated independent remediation and a Fit and Proper reassessment of branch leadership.

The UECN Brief

Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.

Language
Subscriptions

Double opt-in: we send a confirmation link. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy