Economy
Thailand and UAE Advance CEPA Negotiations to Boost Trade and Investment
Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supajee Suthumpun met with UAE officials to accelerate the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
On September 23, 2026, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supajee Suthumpun held discussions with Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, at the UAE Mission to the United Nations. According to Khaosod Online, the meeting focused on advancing the Thailand–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and strengthening bilateral economic ties.
The primary objective of these talks is to expand market access for Thai agricultural products and attract increased investment from the UAE. Both nations expressed a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in trade and private sector connectivity. The Thai Ministry of Commerce has indicated it will prioritize the finalization of the CEPA framework to facilitate these economic goals.
For residents and business travelers, this development signals a potential increase in bilateral commercial activity and closer economic integration between the two countries. While the discussions reflect a positive trajectory for trade relations, the specific timeline for the final signing and implementation of the CEPA remains to be confirmed. Stakeholders should monitor official government announcements for updates on how these policy shifts may impact specific trade sectors or investment regulations in the coming months.
