Abu Dhabi Exports Office Secures $235M Loan to Boost UAE-Trafigura Trade

In a bold step to support UAE exporters and reinforce economic diversification, the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX) has entered into a significant financing partnership worth US$ 235 million (AED 863 million). Teaming up with Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and the Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), the agreement will provide vital support to Trafigura—one of the world’s leading commodity trading firms—as it sources commodities produced within the UAE. This initiative reflects ADEX’s strategic focus on boosting the nation’s global trade presence and fuelling long-term, sustainable development.

ADEX Leads the Way in Strengthening Trade Channels

As the primary lender, ADEX is contributing US$ 150 million to the deal, with the funds enabling Trafigura to purchase a range of UAE-sourced commodities, including those in key sectors like energy, metals, and minerals. The financing is bolstered by CBD's share of US$ 65 million, while SMBC played the role of syndication coordinator, investing US$ 20 million. Together, these financial players are enhancing the global visibility and accessibility of Emirati exports, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to building a dynamic, export-driven economy.

Signing Ceremony Highlights Strong Collaboration

The agreement was formally signed by Khalil Fadel Al Mansoori, Executive Director of ADEX, along with senior representatives from Trafigura, SMBC, and CBD. Also in attendance were officials from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and other stakeholders involved in this landmark deal, showcasing a strong spirit of collaboration between public and private sectors.

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.”

Fahad Al Muhairi, General Manager - Institutional Banking, at Commercial Bank of Dubai also emphasised the strategic impact of the agreement, stating, “By streamlining innovative financing solutions, we are strengthening the UAE’s position as a global trade hub. This partnership exemplifies our dedication to fostering economic progress, both locally and internationally, through forward-thinking collaborations that drive job creation and technological advancement.”

Driving Forward the UAE’s Economic Vision

This agreement represents more than just a financial arrangement—it’s a strategic milestone that aligns with the UAE’s long-term economic aspirations, including the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 and the We the UAE 2031 agenda. By linking local exporters with Trafigura’s international reach, ADEX is fostering sustainable trade while highlighting the importance of joint efforts between government entities and private enterprises in shaping a resilient, future-ready economy.