(Recently, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI convened business leaders from both public and private sectors at the Abu Dhabi–Japan Business Connect Forum in Tokyo. The forum aimed to identify key investment opportunities and exchange ideas focused on sustainable development and innovation.

Shihab Al Faheem, UAE Ambassador to Japan, attended the event, highlighting ongoing efforts to fortify cross-border partnerships and stimulate economic growth.

Trade Growth between UAE and Japan

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADCCI, remarked, "Japan has been instrumental in our development, contributing significantly to urban planning and industrial growth, and it continues to be one of our top trading partners."

He shared that trade between the UAE and Japan has registered a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9 percent over the past five years. During this timeframe, UAE investments in Japan have more than doubled, with the UAE attracting over 80 percent of Japanese investments in the Middle East.

Al Zaabi further emphasized the benefits of the UAE’s advanced infrastructure and business-friendly environment, stating, "These features have not only attracted global talent and entrepreneurs but have also propelled our economic growth, supported by a strong commitment to diversification." He mentioned that non-oil trade has seen a 9 percent increase in 2024, while non-oil exports have soared by an impressive 86.4 percent.

Highlighting the importance of regulatory reforms and seamless digital integration, Al Zaabi indicated a shared vision with Japan to foster an economy that empowers and enriches future generations.

At the forum, the ADCCI and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the intention to deepen business relations and foster new collaborative opportunities, particularly in areas of innovation and sustainability.

The MoU was signed by Shamis Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of ADCCI, and Nobuyuki Nakajima, Managing Director of JETRO MENA. The ceremony took place in the presence of Ambassador Al Faheem, signaling the dawn of a new collaborative phase.

Al Dhaheri noted, "The MoU with JETRO signifies a crucial milestone in strengthening economic ties between Abu Dhabi and Japan. This forum serves as an invaluable platform to cultivate investment and innovation across various industries."

"By aligning our efforts around shared values of growth, sustainability, and technological advancement, we are unlocking new business prospects that contribute to a more interconnected and prosperous global economy."

In response, Nakajima described the agreement as an important step in bolstering the economic partnership between Japan and the UAE, assuring that Japan aims to broaden its cooperation, allowing exploration of new investment opportunities and mutually beneficial business relationships. He concluded, "As both nations pursue innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, we are optimistic this event will lead to groundbreaking partnerships shaping the future of our economies."

Abu Dhabi Encourages Japanese Investment Amid Rising Trade Growth

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