The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has welcomed the Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
According to the AAAA, this trade deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), delivered by Senator Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, gives Australian businesses unprecedented access to that market.
Under the agreement, 99% of Australian products, including manufactured goods, will benefit from reduced or eliminated tariffs when exported to the UAE.
This trade barrier reduction offers Australian automotive manufacturers—particularly those producing 4WD and high-performance vehicle upgrades and accessories—an opportunity to expand their reach into the UAE and the broader Middle East region.
“The UAE is an important market for Australia’s automotive sector, and this agreement gives our industry the confidence to explore opportunities on a larger scale within the region. We commend the Federal Government and Senator Farrell for concluding this deal,” AAAA chief executive Stuart Charity says.
The UAE already represents a key market for Australian automotive exports, with nearly 20% of all Australian automotive manufacturing exports destined for the UAE. Removing tariffs will further strengthen this trade relationship.
Nigel Bishop, AAAA’s 4WD Industry Council Convenor, welcomed the announcement.
“We’re excited for our 4WD manufacturing members, whose products are highly regarded in the UAE for their durability and engineering excellence. The timing is perfect as we prepare to lead a trade mission to Automechanika Dubai,” Bishop says
The AAAA will host an Australian Pavilion at Automechanika Dubai, featuring local manufacturers such as Redarc, Powerdown Australia, Zeder Corporation, Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes, and Leisure-Tec Australia.
These businesses will showcase various products, from high-performance transmission components to heavy-duty 4WD/off-road electronics, accessories, and suspension systems.
“We’re proud to help our members take advantage of these new opportunities and look forward to supporting their growth in the UAE and the broader Middle East region,” Charity says.
