Canada and UAE Sign Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in Ottawa
Canadian Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu and UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi signed the Canada-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement on October 27, 2026, during a visit by the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. The deal will reduce or eliminate tariffs on over 99% of Canadian exports to the UAE.
Canadian Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu and United Arab Emirates Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi signed the Canada-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Ottawa on October 27, 2026. The signing took place during the visit of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, who was in Ottawa from October 26 to 27.
Once fully implemented, the CEPA will reduce or eliminate tariffs on over 99% of current Canadian exports to the UAE. The agreement builds on an existing trade relationship, with Canada-UAE merchandise trade valued at $3.5 billion in 2025. Negotiations for the partnership were concluded in just 47 days.
The agreement is intended to help exporters grow, invest, and reach new markets while supporting trade diversification. It also aims to create commercial opportunities for businesses in both countries and generate jobs and economic growth in Canada and the UAE.
During the signing, the ministers highlighted key milestones reached this year, including the entry into force of a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and the announcement of a Canada-UAE strategic partnership. They also agreed to work together to advance the UAE’s $70 billion investment commitment to Canada.