India-UAE CEPA pushes trade to $37.6 billion in H1 2025
Dubai: The UAE-India Business Council – UAE Chapter (UIBC-UC) has released a landmark study highlighting the sweeping impact of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on bilateral trade and investment.
According to the report, covered by Gulf News, non-oil bilateral trade between India and the UAE touched US$37.6 billion in the first half of 2025, marking a 33.9% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The study, titled “Strength in Synergy: Unlocking India-UAE CEPA Global Potential,” was launched following a closed-door meeting in Dubai attended by Piyush Goyal, India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, alongside senior business leaders.
Gulf News reported that CEPA has broadened opportunities in sectors such as gems and jewellery, food processing, telecom, green energy, and digital services. New growth avenues are also emerging in artificial intelligence, space technology, sustainability, and financial integration, making the agreement far more than a conventional trade deal.
The report also stresses the UAE’s role as a preferred hub for Indian high-net-worth individuals and family offices, fostering joint ventures and deepening economic alignment.
Faizal Kottikollon, Chairman of UIBC-UC, described CEPA as a “blueprint for the future.” He said the pact demonstrates how political will and shared vision can build a resilient model of cross-regional cooperation and innovation-led growth.
As Gulf News highlighted, the study recommends enhanced collaboration in clean energy, digital integration, education, research ecosystems, and human capital development, while positioning CEPA within global platforms like BRICS, G20, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
The UIBC-UC paper, reported by Gulf News, concludes that CEPA is not just strengthening trade but also reshaping the long-term strategic and economic partnership between the two nations.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
