The Economic Partnership Agreement between the United Arab Emirates and the Eurasian Economic Union has driven a 15 per cent rise in trade, reaching $33.3 billion (Dh121.1 billion), according to figures shared during a recent high-level visit to Kazakhstan.
The announcement was made as UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi attended the Eurasian Economic Forum 2026 in Astana, where officials reviewed the progress of economic cooperation between the two sides since the agreement was signed last year.
The EPA was designed to reduce trade barriers, expand market access, and strengthen collaboration across key sectors including logistics, manufacturing, and investment. It forms part of the UAE’s wider strategy to deepen global trade ties and support long-term economic diversification.
Trade between the UAE and Kazakhstan reached approximately $6.1 billion, marking an 8.6 per cent increase. The UAE continues to hold its position as Kazakhstan’s leading Arab trading partner, reflecting growing commercial links between the two economies.
The Eurasian Economic Union includes Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia, forming a regional bloc with which the UAE has sought to expand its economic footprint.
During the forum, Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasised the importance of strengthening trade routes, advancing digital and paperless logistics systems, and expanding joint investment projects in transport and infrastructure. Officials said these areas are key to improving efficiency and supporting cross-border commerce.
The minister also held bilateral meetings with senior officials, including Andrey Slepnev, Minister in charge of Trade at the Eurasian Economic Commission, and Arman Shakkaliyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Trade and Integration. Discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation and identifying new areas for joint development.
Further meetings were held with Kyrgyzstan’s First Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Daniyar Joldoshevich, Astana International Financial Centre Governor Renat Bekturov, and Alen Chaizhunussov, Chairman of Kazakhstan’s Export Credit Agency. UAE Ambassador to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, Dr. Mohammed Saeed Al Ariqi, accompanied the minister during the visit.
Officials from both sides said the forum provided an opportunity to assess progress under the EPA and explore new avenues for investment and trade expansion.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Al Zeyoudi said the UAE’s engagement with the Eurasian Economic Union reflects its commitment to building strong international partnerships that support innovation, sustainable growth, and diversified trade flows.
The agreement’s early results, including double-digit trade growth and stronger bilateral ties with key member states, are being viewed as an indicator of deeper economic integration ahead.
