UAE expands African economic footprint with $107 billion in trade

Annual trade between the United Arab Emirates and Africa has exceeded $107 billion, with Emirati investments on the continent approaching $150 billion, according to UAE presidential diplomatic adviser Anwar Gargash. Gargash noted that the UAE’s strategy focuses on building direct relationships with African nations to bypass traditional Western and European gateways, reflecting a shift in the global economic landscape.

In a specific bilateral development, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi met with South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mpho Parks Tau, at the AIM Congress 2026. The discussions focused on deepening economic ties in sectors such as manufacturing, agribusiness, minerals beneficiation, and logistics. The engagement highlights South Africa’s role as a key partner within the UAE’s broader African trade strategy, aiming to strengthen private-sector collaboration and integrated supply chains.