Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE minister of State for Foreign Trade, participated in a panel discussion titled “Redefining Industry, Trade, and Investment” during the opening ceremony of the “Make it in the Emirates” event. He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to advancing its industrial sector and enhancing local production through strategic initiatives and global partnerships. During the panel, Al Zeyoudi emphasized the vital role of trade and investment in fostering sustainable industrial growth and enhancing global competitiveness. He pointed out that the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) program acts as a significant catalyst, expanding access to markets worldwide and integrating the nation into global supply chains.
The “Make it in the Emirates” event has emerged as a crucial platform for manufacturers, investors, and industry leaders, focusing on the UAE’s industrial and manufacturing opportunities. The event emphasizes the nation’s economic diversification, technological innovation, and sustainability, driving export-led growth, WAM reported.
The robust growth of the UAE’s goods export economy was underscored in a recent report from the World Trade Organization, titled “Global Trade Outlook and Statistics.” This WTO report indicated that the UAE now ranks 11th globally in goods exports, with a value of $603 billion in 2024. The nation improved its position by six places in these rankings between 2021 and 2024, showcasing the effectiveness of the UAE’s industrial policy.
Establishing a global industrial hub
“The CEPA program is not only creating access to diverse markets but it is also facilitating knowledge transfer and skills development across various sectors,” Al Zeyoudi said. “As we innovate and diversify, we are building a robust industrial foundation that will sustain our economic growth.”
The UAE’s industrial strategy, highlighted by initiatives such as Project 300 billion and Make it in the Emirates, aims to shift the country’s export base toward high-value, knowledge-based sectors, including advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0, clean technologies, and logistics.
Al Zeyoudi further stated, “Through the CEPA program, we are helping to establish the UAE as a global hub for industrial excellence. By leveraging advanced technologies and creating synergies between goods and services, we are paving the way for a more diversified and resilient economic model.”
The ‘Make it in the Emirates’ event showcased the UAE’s vision for industrialization, reinforcing the nation’s role as a leading destination for innovation and investment.
The discussions also highlighted the critical role of the CEPA program in advancing the UAE’s industrial vision, further solidifying the country’s position as a key player in the global industrial landscape.
