SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Institutions: Ministry of Commerce & Industry | Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
The third meeting of the Joint Committee under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) successfully concluded in New Delhi. Both nations welcomed the robust growth in bilateral trade, which surpassed USD 100.06 billion in FY 2024–25, reflecting a strong 19.6% increase and reaffirming the UAE’s status as a key trading partner for India. The two nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to the ambitious goal of expanding non-oil and non-precious metal trade towards the USD 100 billion target by 2030.
Detailed discussions focused on resolving key implementation and access issues, including anti-dumping matters, Rules of Origin, services trade, and Gold Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) allocation. India specifically briefed the UAE on its recent decision to allocate the Gold TRQ through a transparent competitive bidding process.
The Gold Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) is a mechanism under the India-UAE CEPA that allows India to import a specific, pre-determined quantity of gold from the UAE at a preferential or reduced customs duty rate. During the meeting, India briefed the UAE on its recent decision to allocate this Gold TRQ through a transparent competitive bidding process, aiming to enhance fairness and efficiency in imports.
Furthermore, officials agreed to enhance regulatory cooperation in pharmaceuticals, coordinate on BIS licensing, and expedite the signing of a crucial MoU on Food Safety and Technical Requirements between India’s APEDA and the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change & Environment. The committee agreed to strengthen trade facilitation and convene the Services Subcommittee meeting soon.
Policy Relevance
The crossing of the USD 100 billion trade milestone validates CEPA as a highly effective mechanism for accelerating economic integration and mitigating global trade uncertainties. The focus on quickly resolving Non-Tariff Barriers (like food safety and standards) in pharmaceuticals and agriculture is crucial for India to diversify its export basket and achieve its non-oil trade target by 2030.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders: Following the decision to allocate the Gold TRQ via competitive bidding, how will the Ministry of Commerce ensure the new mechanism benefits MSME jewelers and prevents market concentration among large importers?
Follow the full news here: India–UAE Convene Third CEPA Joint Committee Meeting; Bilateral Trade Crosses USD 100 Billion