Landmark Australia–UAE Free Trade Agreement Commences
The landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) comes into force on 1 October 2025, marking a new era in trade and investment between the two nations. The agreement also elevates the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership.
The UAE is already Australia’s largest trade and investment partner in the Middle East, with more than $12.3 billion in two-way goods and services trade in 2024. Independent modelling projects that the FTA will deliver an additional $678 million in Australian goods exports to the UAE annually, opening significant opportunities for Australian exporters across multiple sectors.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:
“Our first trade deal in the Middle East provides Australian businesses with a competitive advantage in this fast-growing region. More trade means more opportunities for economic growth. “
“As an important global logistics centre and hub, the UAE will serve as a gateway for Australia’s exports to the broader region and beyond.”
The agreement is among the most liberalising ever concluded by the UAE, with the removal of tariffs applying to 99 per cent of Australia’s exports. This underscores the value the UAE places on deepening ties with Australia and highlights the mutual commitment to strengthening economic cooperation.
The importance of this partnership was further demonstrated through the Prime Minister’s visit to Abu Dhabi on 29 September 2025, where he met with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and toured Lulu Hypermarkets to see first-hand the promotion of Australian produce in the region.
Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, welcomed the agreement, noting its potential to accelerate bilateral trade and deliver new opportunities for Australian businesses. Read the full Media Release.
To read more about the Australia–UAE Free Trade Agreement, visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.
Gulfood is your gateway to the Middle East Market
Gulfood is the world's largest F&B Show and Australian produce will now be more accessible than ever with the new FTA.
Join over 100 Australian companies from 26th to 30th January 2026 in Dubai and showcase your produce to a worldwide audience at this prestigious event.
Gulfood delivers:
- Access to Importers, Distributors and Retailers from right across the world – not just the Middle East. USD20B+ in international trade deals will take place over the 5 days.
- An exhibition platform alongside 6,500 exhibitors from over 198 countries.
- Connection with over 144,000 visitors to promote your products, develop partnerships and see what’s new in the worldwide F&B space.
Contact Gemma Hansen at Export Solutions to explore exhibiting options.
gemma@exportsolutions.com.au
+61 414 616 696