The Democratic Republic of Congo plans to double its trade with the United Arab Emirates from $5 billion to $10 billion by 2030, the Congolese presidency said on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, following the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and three memorandums of understanding between the two countries.
The agreements were signed in the presence of President Félix Tshisekedi, Ecofin Agency reported.
Under the CEPA, Congolese exporters will gain access to the UAE market for about 6,000 products. The deal is designed to make it easier for businesses to trade by reducing customs duties and strengthening trade protections.
One of the memorandums, signed with the National Transport Office, relates to the Banana deep-water port project, which is being developed with DP World. Authorities in Kinshasa see the port as a strategic maritime hub that could improve the country’s access to global trade routes.
Don’t Miss This:
Congo Deepens US Ties With Formal Shortlist Of Strategic Mineral Assets
The two countries also agreed to cooperate in the mining sector, with a focus on improving mineral traceability and securing supply chains through coordinated investment.
In addition, they agreed to collaborate on diplomatic training through a partnership between the DRC Diplomatic Academy and the UAE’s Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, according to the presidency.
These agreements signal a move toward closer ties between Kinshasa and Abu Dhabi and lay the groundwork for deeper economic, cultural and political cooperation.
Relations between the two countries have strengthened steadily in recent years as the UAE increases its engagement with the DRC. In 2023, both sides signed a $1.9 billion deal to develop at least four industrial mines in eastern Congo.
That same year, they reached an agreement allowing the transfer of “certified” gold between the two countries.
In 2025, Abu Dhabi Ports said it planned to invest in the ports of Matadi and Boma. Currently, the UAE exports vehicles, machinery and electrical equipment, iron and mineral fuels to the DRC, while Congo supplies copper, natural pearls and precious metals to the Emirates.
Don’t Miss This:
Rio Tinto, Glencore Enter Early Talks On Potential Mining Mega-Deal
Image Credit: Arabian Business
