Strengthening Trade Relations Between Abu Dhabi and Japan
In a significant move to enhance economic ties, Abu Dhabi recently wrapped up a successful visit to Japan led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). The delegation, which included representatives from over 80 public and private organizations, engaged in high-level meetings with key Japanese government officials and industry leaders to discuss potential collaborations across a range of promising sectors.
During their visit, the Abu Dhabi delegation explored opportunities within various industries, including life sciences, carbon-neutral technologies, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. These sectors represent critical areas for growth not only for Japan but also for the UAE as it aims to diversify its economy and strengthen its global economic position.
Notably, the delegation visited the Expo 2025 Osaka and participated in SusHi Tech in Tokyo, where they hosted the 11th meeting of the Abu Dhabi-Japan Economic Council (ADJEC) and the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF). These events sparked discussions about cooperation and the role of Abu Dhabi's 'Falcon Economy' initiatives in advancing a smart, diversified, and sustainable development framework.
Twelve local startups, supported by Hub71 and Khalifa Fund, were highlighted during the SusHi Tech conference—an event renowned for showcasing innovative solutions and investment opportunities from Abu Dhabi's dynamic tech landscape. Collaborative meetings were held with top officials, including Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura and Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, expressed optimism about the delegation's outcomes, stating, "Guided by the ambitious vision of our leaders, we are intensifying our efforts to secure the future of our economy and solidify Abu Dhabi's profile as a rising economic power and global hub for talent, business, investment, and trade. Our visit to Japan provided a valuable opportunity to deepen our long-standing alliance by exploring new avenues for collaboration across diverse sectors."
In addition to relationship-building discussions, several key agreements were finalized during the trip. A strategic partnership was established between Emirates Driving Company and Zenmov to promote smart mobility solutions. A collaboration agreement was also reached between the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) to foster trade relations and create new business opportunities.
To address critical issues such as food loss and waste, a partnership was signed between the UAE's Nema initiative and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICE). This agreement aims to support the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by targeting a 50% reduction in food loss and waste by 2030.
Shihab Ahmed Alfaheem, the UAE Ambassador to Japan, highlighted the strategic depth of the UAE-Japan relationship, built on decades of trust and collaboration. He noted that Japan's global leadership in areas like digital innovation and smart infrastructure aligns closely with Abu Dhabi's economic diversification goals.
Alfaheem further remarked, "This mission represents a pivotal moment in our bilateral relations as we prepare to activate transformative frameworks such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The CEPA will provide unprecedented access to markets, optimize cross-border investments, and facilitate enhanced technological exchange between our nations. Through these frameworks, we will unlock the full potential of collaboration between the UAE and Japan across all sectors."
The bilateral trade between the UAE and Japan recorded a 4.8% increase in 2024, amounting to AED 182.4 billion ($49.7 billion), reflecting the strengthening ties between the two economies. Furthermore, UAE investments in Japan have doubled over the last five years, while Japan represents a staggering 80% of investments in the Middle East, reinforcing the importance of this strategic partnership.
Overall, the successful visit and agreements forged during the trip signify a robust commitment to building a future rooted in mutual growth and innovation, setting the stage for a prosperous economic relationship between Abu Dhabi and Japan.