Canada and the United Arab Emirates signed a pact Oct. 27, with Ottawa projecting tariff relief for more than 99% of Canadian exports to the Gulf state.
WAM reported that CEPA negotiations concluded on July 25. Canada's government said the two countries signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on Oct. 27.
The countries also launched a new strategic partnership that day, according to Canada's government. Its announced scope includes economic ties, energy, technology, education, defense, diplomacy and cultural exchange. In a government statement, Prime Minister Mark Carney said the partnership would widen business opportunities and support job creation.
Ottawa estimates tariff reductions or removals under CEPA will apply to more than 99% of Canada's current exports to the UAE once the agreement is fully implemented. The government presents the pact as a way to widen access for Canadian goods and services, and names agriculture, aerospace, industrial machinery and power-generation equipment among sectors with export opportunities. Canada expects CEPA to enter into force in 2027.
The announcements came during a visit by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Canada's Prime Minister's Office said it was the first visit to Canada by an Abu Dhabi crown prince. At an official dinner hosted by Carney, Sheikh Khaled thanked him for welcoming the delegation and expressed hope for stronger ties, WAM reported. The agency said the leaders discussed their countries' relationship and cooperation in several areas. The Canadian Press reported that the dinner was held in downtown Ottawa on Monday, Oct. 26.
Canada says the two countries have maintained relations for more than 50 years. During Carney's November 2025 visit to the UAE, the governments signed an investment-protection agreement and began CEPA negotiations. Canada also said the visit included an Emirati commitment to invest $70 billion (US$50 billion) in Canada.
