UAE-BRICS non-oil trade tops $312 billion

UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi has taken part in a meeting of BRICS trade ministers in Jaipur, India, focused on strengthening trade and economic cooperation between member countries.

During the meeting, the UAE highlighted that its non-oil trade with fellow BRICS countries exceeded $312 billion in 2025, an increase of 28.5 per cent compared with the previous year.

Ministers discussed global trade, market connectivity and challenges facing international commerce, although they were unable to reach agreement on a joint declaration.

Dr Al Zeyoudi also raised the UAE's concerns over attacks on commercial shipping and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, reiterating its call for the waterway to be reopened and for freedom of navigation to be protected.

He also held talks with counterparts from India, China, Egypt, Indonesia, South Africa and Russia, focusing on trade, investment and greater private-sector cooperation.

BRICS countries accounted for around 31 per cent of the UAE's total non-oil foreign trade last year, including 34 per cent of imports and 23 per cent of non-oil exports.

The UAE joined BRICS in 2024. The group also includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Egypt and Iran.