Free trade zone between Ukraine and the UAE has come into operation

On July 1, 2026, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates came into force, which provides for the creation of a free trade zone between the two countries.

This was reported by the State Customs Service of Ukraine.

The agency noted that the document was signed on February 17, 2025 in Abu Dhabi and ratified by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine by the Law of Ukraine dated February 26, 2026 No. 4802-IX.

The agreement creates a modern legal framework for the development of bilateral trade in goods and services, and also provides for the gradual abolition of customs duties between Ukraine and the UAE.

As emphasized by the State Customs Service, the introduction of a free trade zone opens up preferential access to the United Arab Emirates market for Ukrainian manufacturers and creates additional opportunities for expanding exports of Ukrainian products.

In addition, the document provides for the deepening of cooperation between the customs administrations of the two states. In particular, Ukraine and the UAE plan to conclude a separate Agreement on Mutual Customs Assistance, which will allow for increased information exchange and will also contribute to the prevention and investigation of violations of customs legislation.

Tags: Ukraine, UAE