Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has extended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), offering preferential air cargo rates to In-Country Value (ICV)-certified companies.

The carrier said this initiative comes as part of its commitment to promoting local products, strengthening the UAE's industrial sector and enhancing its competitiveness in international markets.

Providing discounted air cargo rates across Etihad Cargo's fleet, the extended MoU was signed by Stanislas Brun, vice president of Cargo at Etihad Cargo, and Salama Al Awadi, director of National ICV at MoIAT at the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC).

"Under the extended MoU, Etihad Cargo will continue to offer a 25% discount on air cargo tariffs to ICV-certified companies," the carrier said in the announcement.

It noted that, as a result, more UAE-based companies will be able to scale their operations across the UAE and access more international markets.

"Building on the original agreement signed in 2021, the partnership highlights Etihad Cargo's significant role in driving the UAE's ambitious efforts to boost in-country value and empower local manufacturers," Etihad Cargo said.

Meanwhile, Al Suwaidi noted that the extended MoU is aligned with the Ministry's National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology (Operation 300bn), aimed at diversifying the national economy and enhancing the UAE's industrial sector competitiveness.

"The National ICV Programme serves as a key pillar in empowering this sector and boosting the resilience and sustainability of supply chains. Moreover, extending the agreement will enhance the export capabilities of local companies," he said.

Al Suwaidi noted that the UAE has set a clear vision to elevate the national business environment and foster a competitive economy. "Therefore, the MoU underscores the important role of national entities in supporting local products and steering larger demand towards local procurement."

For his part, Brun added that the collaboration offers the UAE's industrial and service companies the opportunity to expand into more international markets.

"Therefore, it aligns with Etihad Cargo's commitment to advancing the targets of Operation 300bn along with Abu Dhabi's vision of economic diversification and long-term sustainability," he added.