Minister for Indigenous Australians
The Albanese Government today released an action plan supporting First Nations businesses to realise growing trade and investment opportunities with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and broader Middle East.
The Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) First Nations Action Plan, developed with the First Nations Trade and Investment Advisory Group, provides a framework for First Nations businesses to take advantage of the UAE trade deal, which entered into force in October.
First Nations businesses are uniquely positioned to meet the UAE's growing demand for premium, sustainable, and culturally rich goods and services. From native botanicals used in wellness products to ethically sourced foods, innovative designs, fashion, and clean energy solutions rooted in traditional knowledge, these businesses align with the UAE's vision for innovation, sustainability and cultural exchange.
The Australia-UAE agreement is Australia's first trade deal with a dedicated chapter on First Nations business. It recognises the invaluable contribution that First Nations businesses make to our bilateral relationship with the UAE, as well as elevating First Nations perspectives on sustainable agriculture, investment and intellectual property protection.
The Action Plan provides tangible support for Australian First Nations businesses by strengthening cultural and economic ties through activities across key sectors, including creative industries, green economy, services, agrifood and critical enabling technologies.
The UAE is a gateway for exporters to diversify into the broader Middle East - a region with around 61 million consumers and a combined GDP of USD$2.2 trillion.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell
"Australia's First Nations peoples were our first traders. The Government is proud to deliver on our commitment to represent Australian First Nations interests in our trade and economic policy on the world stage.
"This Action Plan is an important step in supporting First Nations business sector to realise the enormous potential and benefits of our trade agreement with the UAE.
"It demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the benefits of trade and investment are better shared across the Australian community, including with First Nations peoples and their communities."
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy
"The Albanese Government is working to support First Nations businesses to forge new trading routes overseas and celebrate the businesses that have already found their own international path.
"This Action Plan, developed with the First Nations Trade and Investment Advisory Group, unlocks new opportunities for businesses to export their unique products and services and build closer economic ties with the UAE."
