The role of artificial intelligence in global trade is gaining traction, and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, emphasizes that the UAE is a pioneering example in leveraging AI in trade. During a recent interview with the Union News Center at the 56th World Economic Forum, he highlighted the country’s proactive measures to diversify economic partnerships and integrate technological solutions, establishing the UAE as a global leader in utilizing artificial intelligence for commerce.
In his discussion, Al Zeyoudi noted that the UAE has long been preparing for this transformation, signing multiple agreements across continents to enhance supply chain efficiency. “The forum addressed commercial issues and their broader impact on various sectors,” he stated, underscoring the UAE’s early commitment to integrating AI solutions in foreign trade.
Al Zeyoudi pointed out the substantial focus on AI as a key solution to reduce the burdens of tariffs. “We signed an agreement with PreSight to make the Ministry of Foreign Trade the world’s first ministry to implement artificial intelligence,” he added. These AI-driven solutions are set to streamline forecasting and analysis, assisting exporters in understanding market dynamics and the necessary goods and services to import. Detailed announcements regarding these advancements are expected soon.
The Ministry of Foreign Trade recently partnered with PreSight, renowned for its AI solutions and part of the UAE-based G42 Group, to develop a new AI-enabled platform designed to boost the UAE’s non-oil trade with the world. This platform utilizes cutting-edge AI tools to expedite foreign trade processes, making them faster, smarter, and more flexible, thus reinforcing the UAE’s status as a global trade hub. Al Zeyoudi mentioned, “This platform has attracted significant interest from other nations eager to visit the UAE and learn more about it.”
On the subject of comprehensive economic partnership agreements, Al Zeyoudi revealed that several are set to be signed in the coming weeks. “We are in the final stages of signing partnerships with Japan and are ready to announce them shortly. We are also nearing a comprehensive economic partnership with the European Union, as well as agreements with Egypt and Ecuador expected to be finalized before the month ends,” he stated, adding that discussions with other nations, including Rwanda, are ongoing.
Throughout 2025, the UAE has achieved strategic milestones in its comprehensive economic partnership program, successfully signing 34 agreements to date, with 14 already in effect. This partnership program is a crucial component of the UAE’s foreign trade strategy, aimed at raising the total trade value to one trillion dollars by 2031 while doubling the economy size to exceed 800 billion dollars in the same year. The UAE stands as a model in employing artificial intelligence in commerce, showcasing a commitment to innovative solutions and global trade excellence.