Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (A-UAECEPA) – What exporters need to know

The Australia – United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (A‑UAECEPA) officially came into force on 1 October 2025.

This agreement strengthens bilateral trade and investment ties between Australia and the UAE, creating new opportunities for South Australian exporters to access one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing markets.

Key information for exporters

The A‑UAECEPA Rules of Origin can be accessed at Chapter 3, with further information available as follows:

• Annex 3A: Product Specific Rules Schedule 
• Appendix 3A‑a: Indicative List of Textile Finishing Processes 
• Annex 3B: Certificate of Origin Minimum Information Requirements 
• Annex 3C: Origin Declaration Minimum Information Requirements

Note for A‑UAECEPA COO — Box 5: Issued retrospectively

When completing the A‑UAECEPA Certificate of Origin:

• Tick ​“YES” if the stamping date is after the shipment date.
• Tick ​“NO” if the stamping date is before the shipment date.

Certificate issuance process

• Manual issuance: Please download the template here and send the completed document to the SA Business Chamber at trade@​sabusinesschamber.​com.​au

• Electronic issuance: The essCert system is currently configuring the A‑UAECEPA template. This option will be available on the platform once configuration is complete. We recommend exporters using individual software providers (e.g., BSM) to inform and update the systems accordingly to enable the A‑UAECEPA template.

Need support?

For guidance on export implications and documentation, practical support with requirements, or to discuss how these changes may affect your exports, please contact our International Services Team at trade@​sabusinesschamber.​com.​au