The UAE government’s decision to implement excise tax has led to a sharp decline in the value of tobacco trade in Abu Dhabi.
According to the emirate’s Statistics Centre, the overall trade of raw and manufactured tobacco products dropped to AED 62.4 million last year, compared to AED 410 million in 2017.
The UAE began applying excise tax on certain goods in October 2017.
It increased the cost of carbonated drinks by 50 per cent and doubled the price of tobacco and energy drinks.
UAE and Sierra Leone sign major trade pact
The UAE and Sierra Leone have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at strengthening trade and investment cooperation.
IMF chief praises UAE's model of economic diversification
Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of International Monetary Fund (IMF), has commended the UAE's non-oil trade growth as a testimony of its successful efforts at diversifying its economy, during her opening address at Arab Fiscal Forum.
India budget seeks manufacturing pivot, but falls short of expectations
India pushed manufacturing to the forefront of its budget as it prioritised sectors such as semiconductors, biopharma and renewables, but stopped short of the bold reforms sought by investors to boost investment amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Dubai Duty Free records highest ever January sales
Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has posted its strongest January performance on record, achieving AED858.21 million in sales, an 18.53 per cent increase over January 2025.
Dubai health insurance network achieves record growth in 2025
Dubai’s health insurance system recorded significant growth in coverage indicators and operational activity during 2025 compared to 2024, according to the latest data issued Dubai Health Authority.
The UAE has denied false and unfounded claims that it would assume civilian administration of Gaza.
A UAE media delegation has visited Kuwait’s Ministry of Information as part of an official programme organised by the Dubai Press Club.
The Dubai Press Club has hosted the "UAE–Kuwait Media Celebration" as part of a programme highlighting the strong fraternal ties and close cooperation between the two nations.
