In a major step toward deepening economic ties, Fiji and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to fast-track negotiations for a landmark regional Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the UAE and Pacific island countries.
The decision was made during a high-level virtual meeting this week (11/4/25), led by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, and UAE representative His Excellency Omar Al-Omar. The meeting brought together senior trade officials, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), and diplomats from both sides, reflecting growing momentum to formalise economic relations between the Gulf and the Pacific.
“This partnership has the potential to reshape the Pacific’s trade landscape,” said Hon. Kamikamica. “We are pleased that the UAE is ready to engage and move at pace with us to secure real outcomes for our region.”
The agreement’s framework is expected to be introduced at the Pacific Trade Ministers' Meeting, scheduled for 9–11 July in Fiji. If endorsed, negotiations will continue through August, with a target to finalise and announce the deal at the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in September.
An outcome of the meeting was the confirmation that work on the draft EPA text will begin immediately. The UAE will prepare a baseline draft drawing from existing Pacific agreements with Australia and New Zealand, expediting the negotiation timeline.
Permanent Secretary for Trade, Mr. Shaheen Ali, was appointed as the national focal point to coordinate technical and policy engagement from the Fijian side.
“The goal is clear: we want a concrete, mutually beneficial agreement in time for the Leaders’ Meeting,” said Mr. Ali. “To get there, we must prepare early, onboard the right experts, and maintain open channels with our UAE counterparts.”
From the UAE side, H.E. Omar Al-Omar reinforced the country’s commitment to the process, stating, “We see real opportunity in a strategic trade relationship with the Pacific. We are aligned with Fiji’s urgency and are ready to support the region’s aspirations.”
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat also confirmed its support, noting that a concept paper will be submitted to regional officials and ministers in the coming months. Deputy Secretary-General Mr. Esala Nayasi noted, “This is a priority on the regional trade agenda, and we are working closely with Fiji and other island nations to ensure a robust and timely outcome.”
With a clear plan, strong political will, and growing regional support, the path to the first UAE-Pacific trade agreement is quickly taking shape.