UAE-India trade exceeded $100 billion for a second consecutive year, with both countries now targeting $200 billion by 2032 as logistics and investment links deepen.
NEW DELHI: UAE-India trade is entering a new phase as the two countries move beyond traditional flows of goods and investment towards deeper logistics connectivity and integrated trade corridors. Bilateral trade reached US$101.25 billion during the 2025-2026 financial year, marking the second consecutive year that commerce between the two markets exceeded $100 billion.
The next target is considerably larger. The UAE and India aim to increase bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2032, supported by projects designed to make it easier for businesses to access markets and move goods between the two countries.
Among the initiatives shaping this relationship are Bharat Mart and the Virtual Trade Corridor, alongside cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, known as IMEC.
Together, these projects reflect a broader shift in the economic relationship. Rather than focusing solely on increasing the value of goods exchanged, the two countries are developing infrastructure and systems intended to strengthen supply chains and create more efficient routes connecting businesses with regional and international markets.
The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or CEPA, remains central to that strategy. The agreement entered into force in 2022 and has helped expand opportunities for goods, services, investment and private-sector cooperation.
The expanding relationship is also gaining significance within BRICS. The UAE became a full member of the group in January 2024 and is a member of the New Development Bank, giving it an additional platform for economic and financial cooperation with other member countries.
The latest developments coincide with the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12, 2026. The two-day summit is being held under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with India holding the BRICS presidency during the group’s 20th anniversary year.
For businesses, the significance of UAE-India trade increasingly lies in what surrounds the headline trade figures. Better logistics links, digital trade systems and investment channels could make it easier for companies to reach consumers across both markets while strengthening the UAE’s position as a commercial gateway connecting South Asia with the Middle East and beyond.
Reaching the $200 billion target would require considerable further expansion. However, the combination of CEPA, logistics initiatives and investment cooperation provides a framework through which the two countries intend to pursue that growth.
Impact to expect
Stronger UAE-India logistics corridors could reduce barriers for businesses, improve supply-chain connectivity and create new opportunities for trade and investment between South Asia, the Gulf and wider international markets.
