The Honorable Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, recently met with members of the South African Business Council in the UAE. The discussion focused on enhancing trade and investment opportunities, as well as fostering collaboration between the business communities and private sectors of both nations. This meeting reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its economic ties with African countries, acknowledging the continent’s significant role in global trade and the world economy.
During the meeting, Dr. Al Zeyoudi praised the remarkable growth in trade volumes between the two sides, which saw non-oil foreign trade reach $8.5 billion in 2024. This represents a 14% increase compared to 2023 and a substantial 120% rise since 2019. According to 2024 figures, South Africa has become the UAE’s second-largest trading partner in Africa. This trade growth continued into the first half of 2025, with non-oil trade reaching $3.93 billion.
Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi stated, “The UAE is committed to enhancing its economic partnership with South Africa.” The discussions aimed at exploring new avenues for cooperation between the business and private sectors of both friendly nations, mutually benefiting both sides through the establishment of new partnerships in projects related to food security, logistics, infrastructure, tourism, and renewable energy in South Africa and across the continent. Currently, more than 3,690 South African companies are operating in the UAE.