Opportunities with the UAE-CEPA: What New Zealand Exporters Need to Know

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a prominent global trading hub, and for New Zealand exporters, the timing couldn’t be better. According to the latest MFAT UAE Economic Outlook (Nov 2025), the UAE’s economy is accelerating and diversifying quickly. For New Zealand Exporters, the opportunity is clear: favourable trade terms + a market appreciation for premium and trusted goods.

A Fast-Growing Hub

The IMF recently revised its forecast for the UAE’s GDP growth in 2025 to 4.8% (from 4.0% earlier in the year). The non-oil sectors are growing, with logistics, technology, tourism and financial services being major drivers. Non-oil trade in H1 2025 rose by 24% year-on-year, reaching approximately AED 1.73 trillion (NZD $807 billion).

A Strategic Free-Trade Boost for NZ

On 28 August 2025, the New Zealand–United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (NZ-UAE CEPA) entered into force, making this New Zealand’s first free trade agreement in the Middle East.
Key advantages include:

• 99% of New Zealand goods exports can now enter the UAE duty-free, including dairy, red meat, horticulture and industrial products.

• Trade-facilitative rules (digital trade, non-tariff barriers, IP, competition) mean fewer documentation surprises and easier cross-border flows. For exporters, a certificate of origin becomes a crucial document that enables duty-free access.

What NZ Exporters Should Focus On

• Red Meat: The UAE’s red meat imports are at 10-year highs. Beef imports have nearly tripled since 2015, while sheep meat has increased by 40%. Yet, New Zealand holds only ~1% of the sheep-meat import share and ~3% of bovine meat imports, so there is clear room for growth.

  • Certification of origin, halal compliance, chilled vs frozen status, and traceability will be key differentiators.

• Fresh Fruit: New Zealand fruit enjoys strong brand recognition in the UAE, rated first or second for many fruits (kiwifruit, apples, blueberries, strawberries, avocados). Seventy-five percent of UAE consumers are willing to pay a premium for New Zealand-grown fruit.

  • Fresh Fruit exporters should emphasise freshness, NZ branding and peak condition on arrival: correct packaging, traceability and delivery on time matter.

With the growing opportunity comes increased expectation:

• Accuracy: Ensure your Certificate of Origin (COO) is correctly completed to claim the preferential tariff under the CEPA.

• Traceability: With trade agreements in force, provenance becomes scrutinised; maintain traceability for audits. Strong traceability avoids delays, rejections or unnecessary duties.

• Engage early: For first-time exporters to the UAE market, allow time to understand customs clearance, local agent relationships and regulatory regimes.

Strategic Thoughts for Exporters

• Align your product offering with premium, trusted credentials (New Zealand origin, sustainability, quality).

• Consider the UAE not just as an end market, but as a gateway into the broader Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region, given its location and role.

• Use the CEPA to your advantage, but don’t assume automatic access. Correct paperwork and partner selection still matter.

• Monitor market intelligence and regulatory changes (including free-trade rules, customs procedures, and standards) to ensure that documentation remains fully compliant.

According to the MFAT UAE Economic Outlook report, the UAE’s rapid economic diversification, strong trade growth and the new NZ-UAE CEPA combine to create a high-potential environment for New Zealand exporters. With the right documentation, logistics and compliance practices in place, exporters can meaningfully expand their footprint, potentially into the Middle East and Africa.

If you’re considering the UAE market (or already exporting there) and would like to discuss Certificate of Origin challenges, customs documentation, or how to document preferential access under the CEPA, reach out to our team here.