Colombia UAE CEPA Opens 85% Tariff-Free Trade

Colombia To Gain Tariff-Free Access For 85% Of Its Products In The UAE

November 11, 2026

2 minute read

The Colombia UAE CEPA, signed in 2024, has passed its first debate in the Senate’s Second Committee, according to La República. Once it enters into force, 85% of Colombian products will reach the Emirati market duty-free, while another 13% will see tariffs cut in phases over five years.

Colombia UAE CEPA Passes Its First Senate Debate

Preferential access covers coffee, fruits, vegetables, flowers, beef, chicken, dairy, cocoa, chocolate, juices and confectionery. It also covers leather goods, footwear, clothing, furniture, fertilisers, tools, precious stones and medical devices.

Trade Figures Behind the Agreement

Colombia–UAE trade reached a US$ 799 million surplus for Colombia. Between January and August 2026, Colombia exported US19 billion in agricultural products and food each year.

The UAE has 11.5 million people and a GDP per capita of around US$50,200. On the Colombian side, 63% of Emirati products will enter duty-free, with the remaining 37% phased in over up to 12 years.

Approval Still Pending and Lessons for Partners

The agreement has 19 chapters, covering goods, services, digital trade, sustainability and responsible tourism, with provisions to bring SMEs into global supply chains. Vice Minister Sandra Carvajal said it is Colombia’s first agreement with Arab countries.

Colombia must still complete its legislative process and win Constitutional Court approval, and exporters must meet rules of origin and technical requirements. Pakistan, which is also pursuing closer trade ties with Gulf partners, can watch whether phased tariff cuts and SME support turn preferences into real export growth.