UAE pushes for South America trade deal at Mercosur Summit

The UAE has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic ties with South America's Mercosur bloc, as it pushes to secure a landmark trade agreement with the regional alliance.

Representing President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Mercosur Summit in Asunción, Paraguay, Minister of Foreign Trade Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi said the UAE views the partnership as a key pillar of its long-term economic strategy.

Addressing leaders from Mercosur member states and partner countries, Al Zeyoudi stressed the importance of building a more resilient and sustainable economic partnership amid ongoing geopolitical and economic change.

He reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the bloc, describing it as a strategic framework that would unlock the full potential of trade and investment between both sides.

The minister said non-oil trade between the UAE and Mercosur countries reached $6.2 billion in 2025, highlighting the growing momentum in economic relations.

Discussions also focused on expanding cooperation in food security, clean energy, logistics and future industries, while strengthening supply chains and improving market access for businesses on both sides.

Al Zeyoudi said recent global developments had underlined the importance of open markets and strong international partnerships, adding that closer cooperation would support sustainable growth and create new opportunities for businesses and investors.

He also conveyed the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the leaders of the Mercosur countries, along with His Highness’s wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the bloc’s nations and people.

The UAE's participation in the summit forms part of its broader strategy to expand its network of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements and strengthen trade links with major economies around the world.