$235million syndicated loan agreement to boost UAE trade with Trafigura
(Posted on 15/04/25)
In a strategic move to empower UAE exporters and advance the nation’s economic diversification goals, the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX) has signed a USD235 million (AED 863 million) syndicated loan agreement with Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) to support Trafigura, a market leader in the global commodities industry, to acquire commodities originating from the UAE. The agreement underscores ADEX’s commitment to strengthening the UAE’s position as a globally competitive trade hub while accelerating the country’s sustainable economic development.
Under the agreement, ADEX spearheaded the financing with USD150 million, supporting Trafigura’s acquisition of UAE-produced commodities across strategic sectors such as energy, metals and minerals. CBD contributed USD65 million, while SMBC coordinated the syndication with a contribution of USD20 million. This collaboration will amplify access to Emirati products in international markets, directly aligning with the UAE’s vision to diversify its economy and build resilient trade partnerships.
The agreement was signed by Khalil Fadel Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Exports Office, alongside representatives of Trafigura, SMBC, and CBD. Officials from Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and other participating entities also attended the signing ceremony.
His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and Chairman of the Exports Executive Committee at the Abu Dhabi Exports Office, said: “This agreement is a testament to ADEX’s mission of empowering UAE businesses to compete globally. By providing flexible financial solutions, we are unlocking opportunities for national companies to expand into new markets, drive sustainable economic growth, and strengthen the UAE’s role as a bridge between regional and global trade networks.”
Laurent Christophe, Group Treasurer for Trafigura emphasized the transformative potential of the agreement: “This collaboration allows us to integrate high-quality UAE commodities into our global supply chains, reaching fast-growing markets while supporting the UAE’s economic ambitions. Together with ADEX, SMBC and CBD, we are further integrating the country’s resources into international supply chains and contributing to the UAE’s vision of long-term prosperity.”
Highlighting the UAE’s strategic significance, Jonathan Joseph-Horne, Co-Head of Global Trade Finance Department, EMEA at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, said: “As a global financial leader, we recognize the UAE’s growing influence in shaping international trade. This agreement reflects confidence in the UAE’s export capabilities and its commitment to sustainable development. We are proud to support initiatives that enhance cross-border economic resilience and align with the UAE’s diversification agenda.”
The agreement marks a milestone in the UAE’s journey towards a diversified, future-ready economy. By connecting UAE exporters to Trafigura’s global networks, ADEX continues to champion sustainable trade practices while supporting the UAE’s broader economic objectives enshrined in the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031, while also highlighting the power of public-private partnerships in achieving shared economic success.
Latest News
Rio Tinto and AMG assess low-carbon aluminium project in India
(Posted on 22/04/25)Rio Tinto and AMG Metals & Materials (AMG M&M), an energy transition solutions provider, have... Read more
BHP record iron ore and copper production demonstrates resilience
(Posted on 22/04/25)BHP has released its Operational Review for the nine months ended 31 March 2025.BHP Chief Executive... Read more
WTO: Trump’s tariffs will shrink global trade
(Posted on 16/04/25)The volume of world merchandise trade is expected to decline by 0.2% in 2025 under current conditions... Read more
Anglo American update on sale of steelmaking coal business to Peabody
(Posted on 15/04/25)Anglo American plc has noted the recent statement issued by Peabody Energy in relation to the definitive... Read more
Rio Tinto’s first Western Australian-made iron ore rail cars
(Posted on 03/04/25)Rio Tinto’s first locally made iron ore rail car has been built in Western Australia, as it steps... Read more
ADM and Mitsubishi form strategic agriculture supply chain alliance
(Posted on 01/04/25)ADM and Mitsubishi Corporation have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to form a strategic... Read more
ESL Shipping and SSAB extend cooperation in raw material transports
(Posted on 27/03/25)ESL Shipping and global steel manufacturer SSAB have agreed on a multi-year extension of the agreement... Read more
Sakatti copper project in Finland awarded ‘Strategic Project’ status by EU
(Posted on 27/03/25)Anglo American’s Sakatti copper and polymetallic project in Finland has been designated as a &... Read more
FEFAC calls for targeted transatlantic feed trade agreement
(Posted on 18/03/25)FEFAC, representing the EU compound feed and premix manufacturers, noted with deep concern the announced... Read more
Cargill inaugurates new corn milling plant in Gwalior, India
(Posted on 18/03/25)Catering to the growing demand from India’s confectionery, infant formula, and dairy sectors,... Read more
