EU and UAE begin talks on free trade agreement


05/29/2025

The European Commission (EC) announced on Wednesday that the European Union and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have officially begun discussions on a bilateral free trade agreement.



pxhere
The commencement of trade talks between the EU and the UAE marks a significant milestone. EC chief Ursula von der Leyen stated, “We will collaborate to finalize an agreement that can serve our populations and companies by uniting us in a spirit of cooperation.” 

She added, “This agreement will enhance relations between the EU and the Gulf region by providing fresh opportunities for EU companies while bolstering collaborations in sectors crucial to EU citizens, like renewable energy and digital technologies.”

The two parties initially consented to begin discussions on a free trade agreement on 10 April. 

On Wednesday in Dubai, Maroš Šefčovič, the EC member responsible for trade and economic security, and UAE foreign trade minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi confirmed their goal of achieving a commercially beneficial agreement and established a roadmap, with significant work set to begin as soon as June, according to a statement from the European Commission.

source: reuters.com