UAE and Argentina launch CEPA trade negotiations

The United Arab Emirates and Argentina have officially launched negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The announcement was made in New York by UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and Argentine Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship Pablo Quirno during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The proposed agreement aims to expand market access for goods and services while strengthening the link between trade and investment. Key sectors identified for cooperation include energy, mining and minerals, artificial intelligence, data centers, pharmaceuticals, agribusiness, aerospace, tourism, and infrastructure.

The negotiations build upon existing legal frameworks, including a Bilateral Investment Treaty and a Double Taxation Agreement. A significant existing collaboration cited is the Argentina LNG project, a partnership between Argentina’s national energy company YPF and XRG, the international energy investment arm of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). This project is expected to attract approximately $51 billion in total investment during its development phases.