NZ-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Boosts Export Opportunities in $500B Market

The NZ-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) legislation has passed, giving Kiwi exporters access to a $500 billion market that imports 90% of its food, with tariffs on 98.5% of exports immediately removed, rising to 99% in three years. Agriculture, Trade, and Investment Minister Todd McClay highlights the benefits of the agreement in lowering costs, increasing access, and enhancing New Zealand's presence in the Middle East, aiming to capitalize on UAE consumers' demand for safe, fresh products. The CEPA aims to boost two-way trade between New Zealand and the UAE, worth $1.35 billion last year, by reducing red tape, promoting services trade, and supporting investment links, aligning with the government's goal of doubling export value in a decade.