HE Dr. Thani Bin Ahmad Al Zeyoudi Inaugurates 2nd Edition of Japan Trade Exhibition at DWTC
His Excellency Dr. Thani Bin Ahmad Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, officially inaugurated the second edition of the Japan-Kyoto Trade Exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The event, which features more than 120 Japanese companies and brands, underscores the UAE’s strategic role as a key hub for Japanese trade and investment in the region.
In his opening speech, HE Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the continued growth of UAE-Japan relations, noting that bilateral non-oil trade between the two countries reached approximately AED 65 billion ($17.7 billion) in 2024. This marked a 2.2% increase from 2023 and a 32% growth compared to 2021, positioning Japan as the UAE’s ninth-largest trading partner globally and the top trading partner in the Gulf region.
He further emphasized the importance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which is currently being negotiated between the UAE and Japan. The agreement, expected to be finalized by the end of 2025, is set to open new horizons for collaboration and long-term partnerships between businesses in both countries, fostering joint economic growth.
The Japan-Kyoto Trade Exhibition is quickly becoming a major annual event in the Middle East, providing a platform for Japanese companies to showcase their innovative products and services while offering UAE businesses the opportunity to explore new commercial prospects. Organized by Maico Enterprise, the exhibition highlights the growing interest of Japanese companies in expanding their presence in the UAE and the broader Middle East.
Mai Sakaue, CEO of Maico Enterprise, praised the significant expansion of the exhibition, with over 100 exhibitors from various sectors, including technology, artificial intelligence, aerospace, food industries, sustainability, healthcare, and more. She also highlighted the historical significance of trade relations between Japan and the Arab world, which dates back over a thousand years, and announced a special incense ritual performance to commemorate this long-standing relationship.
The event is expected to attract around 30,000 visitors from the UAE, Middle East, and North Africa. Among the key exhibitors are leading Japanese companies like ITOEN, a major beverage brand, and AVITA, an innovative AI-driven startup. Several Japanese startups are also participating, seeking investment and funding opportunities in the UAE, which has a reputation for being a pro-business environment that supports emerging enterprises.
The Japan Trade Exhibition remains an essential platform for strengthening trade, investment, and cultural ties between Japan, the UAE, and the wider Middle East, offering unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and business development.
