UAE–DR Congo trade deal takes effect, cutting tariffs on most goods
A trade deal between the United Arab Emirates and the Democratic Republic of Congo took effect on Friday, 30 October, removing tariffs on most goods traded between the two countries. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, known as a CEPA, also simplifies customs procedures and cuts unnecessary barriers to trade.
Announced by the UAE’s official Emirates News Agency, the deal aims to increase trade and encourage investment in logistics, energy and manufacturing. The two countries signed it on 2 February 2026 in Abu Dhabi, and its entry into force means the terms now apply in practice.
The deal builds on fast-growing trade: non-oil trade reached US$3.5 billion in 2025, up 38.5% on 2024. The UAE sells vehicles, machinery, electronics and construction materials to the DRC, while Congolese metals, food, cotton and farm products move through the UAE to other markets.
The DRC is one of Africa’s ten largest economies, with GDP of US$122.28 billion and growth of 5.2%. It borders nine countries, giving it a key position for trade across Central and Eastern Africa. It is also the world’s biggest cobalt producer, supplying more than 70% of global output, and Africa’s leading copper producer.
Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade, said the deal was “another significant stride forward” in the UAE’s growth plans and would open access to the DRC and the wider region for UAE exporters and investors.
Why it matters
The UAE says it has now concluded CEPAs with 40 nations, 20 of which are in force. For the DRC, the deal could mean cheaper imports of machinery and vehicles, and easier routes for its minerals and farm goods to reach world markets through the UAE.
The minerals matter most. Cobalt and copper are essential for batteries and clean-energy technology, and the DRC dominates world cobalt supply. A smoother trade route to the Gulf could shape where those minerals go next.
What happens next
Businesses can now use the lower tariffs, but they must check product rules, origin requirements and customs paperwork first. The real test is whether trade grows beyond the US$3.5 billion of 2025, and whether promised investment in logistics, energy and manufacturing turns into signed projects.
This article is for general information and education only. It is not legal or financial advice.
Sources
- https://www.wam.ae/en/article/c3051gr-uae%E2%80%99s-comprehensive-economic-partnership-agreement (Emirates News Agency, 30 October 2026)
- https://mid-east.info/uaes-comprehensive-economic-partnership-agreement-with-the-democratic-republic-of-congo-enters-into-force/ (mid-east.info, 30 October 2026)
- https://www.arabianwallstreet.com/trade/6716/uae-dr-congo-cepa-takes-effect-to-boost-trade-and-investment/ (Arabian Wall Street, 31 October 2026)
