Abu Dhabi's Economic Delegation in Japan Seeks Ways to Enhance Partnerships
Abu Dhabi's Economic Delegation Visits Japan to Forge Stronger Ties
In an effort to strengthen its connections with leading global economies, Abu Dhabi is sending a high-ranking economic delegation to Japan from May 6 to 9, 2025. This initiative is a part of the Emirate's broader strategy to enhance its economic and investment relationships internationally. The delegation consists of prominent officials from both the government and key private sector organizations, reflecting a collaborative spirit aimed at exploring new frontiers in inter-country partnerships.
Composition of the Delegation
The delegation will include representatives from various significant entities such as the Culture and Tourism Ministry of Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), and the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development. The aim is to tap into growth sectors and markets by fostering collaboration with Japanese counterparts. His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), emphasizes the potential for Abu Dhabi—a burgeoning economic hub—to attract top-tier global talent and investment.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Japan has been an important partner for Abu Dhabi over the last six decades, evidenced by the robust growth in bilateral trade and investments. The trade between both regions has seen a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 11.9% over the last five years, with non-oil exports from the UAE increasing by 8.8% and imports experiencing a 12.2% annual growth rate. Moreover, UAE investments in Japan have more than doubled in this timeframe, demonstrating the deepening economic ties.
With a focus on areas such as clean energy, hydrogen technology, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology, this visit aims to bring the partnership to new heights, leading to sustainable future collaborations. A tangible step towards augmenting this partnership will be the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Japan later this year. The CEPA is set to unlock numerous opportunities and promote technology and knowledge exchange while paving the way to new markets.
Events and Forums
During the visit, the delegation will engage in key events such as Expo 2025 Osaka and the SusHi Tech in Tokyo. They will also participate in the 11th meeting of the Abu Dhabi-Japan Economic Council (ADJEC). Furthermore, the delegation will host the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) and the Abu Dhabi-Tokyo Business Forum, aimed at intensifying collaboration and attracting talent and investments to Abu Dhabi.
Ambassador Shihab Ahmed Alfaheem has stated that this visit not only signifies the longstanding relationship between Abu Dhabi and Japan but also symbolizes the commitment to ushering in a new era of cooperation. He highlighted Japan's expertise in digital transformation and sustainable mobility as complementing strategic sectors in Abu Dhabi. The upcoming CEPA is expected to enhance market access and strengthen investment flows.
Since its inception in 2011, the ADJEC has aided in enhancing bilateral cooperation across various industries, and the capital value of companies affiliated with the JCCME in Abu Dhabi exceeds 106 billion AED, focusing on pivotal sectors like oil and gas, construction, retail, and education. Following a successful outing in cities like London, Beijing, and Shanghai, ADIF is excited to make its debut in Tokyo on May 9, providing a platform for CEOs and business leaders to forge strategic partnerships with one of the fastest-growing economies in the MENA region.
Conclusion
The Abu Dhabi delegation's engagement in Japan is a promising development in international economic cooperation, laying the foundation for new investments, collaborations, and developmental opportunities. Through these mutual efforts, both countries can work towards a sustainable future filled with potential and innovation.