Monthly Economic Magazine - issued by Qatar Chamber - Issue No. 93 - October 2021

Chamber launches new service to list companies in ‘Commercial Directory’ online

Qatar›s construction sector witnessing steady growth, says Sheikh Khalifa

Value of e-commerce trade in Qatar exceeds $2.2 bn last year

QC review trade relations with several institution

Chairman, Saudi Ambassador examine developing commercial relations

Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al ThaniQatar Chamber Chairman

Editorial

Shura Council Elections

The country’s first Shura Council elections, which took place in early October 2021, confirmed the sound approach of the State of Qatar under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.These elections that resulted in the first elected Shura Council in the history of Qatar will further contribute to enhancing the popular participation and consolidating democracy in the country.This step is considered a historic achievement and an important step in expanding popular participation in decision-making. The broad participation of citizens, whether as a candidate or voter, reflects the significant awareness of citizens and their keenness to make this first electoral experience at the level of the Shura Council a great success.This reminds us of the first experience of the Central Municipal Council elections, which took place more than 20 years ago and was a great success and witnessed a wide participation of citizens.There is no doubt that Qatar Chamber is looking forward with optimism to cooperating with the elected Council, especially regarding the legislation of laws of an economic nature that touch on the economic, commercial and investment process.

We also are looking forward to cooperating with the committees concerned with economic and commercial aspects in the Council in a way that serves our national economy and enhances the role of the private sector in the economy.There is no question the elected council will contribute to strengthening Qatar’s position worldwide as a state of law and institutions, which will open the scope for mote cooperation with world countries, especially in the commercial, investment and economic fields.Furthermore, it will help enhance the confidence in the Qatari economy and the investment climate in the country and will open wider vistas for the Qatari private sector to forge more alliances and commercial partnerships with its counterparts in other countries, which will reflect positively on the Qatari economy.In conclusion, I have the pleasure to express my sincere congratulations and blessings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the success of the first legislative elections in the country.I also congratulate all elected members, hoping that they will meet all expectations placed upon them by the voters who granted them their confidence in the country’s first Shura council elections.

2 October 2021

Saleh bin Hamad Al SharqiGeneral Manager

Article

Qatar Chamber and digitalization

As part of its tireless efforts to serve the Qatari business community, and due to its realization of the importance of technology in translating these efforts into tangible reality, the Qatar Chamber continues to implement its plans towards digital transformation. Therefore, it has developed its digital infrastructure to transform its services to e-services in a way that meet the needs of all companies and save members time and effort.There is no doubt that the Chamber’s efforts are in line with the objectives of Qatar e-Government 2020 Strategy which aims to help businesses and private organizations find easier and faster ways to operate businesses. This strategy also comes in line with Qatar’s Strategy for economic diversification that relies on creating the right environment for investment and businesses, and removing any barriers to doing business, so that the economy can continue to grow and develop.In respect of that, Qatar Chamber has recently launched a host of e-services with the aim to streamline the country’s business environment and develop services offered to the business community, investors, and companies in Qatar. The Chamber’s e-services will allow members to issue certificate of origin, issue ATA Carnet, register in training programmes and update companies’ data. They will also have easy access to the online Qatar Chamber Commercial and Industrial Directory.

Undoubtedly, the digital transformation adopted by the Chamber in accordance with the highest international standards has borne fruit during the Covid-19 pandemic.The digital development allowed the chamber to provide its services to the private sector without interruption during the precautionary measures in a way that preserved the safety and health of affiliates and visitors and facilitated the business environment in the country.Among these new e-services, the Chamber launched a service includes listing companies in the online QC Commercial and Industrial Directory which is an electronic platform that includes lists of commercial and industrial companies operating in Qatar and registered at the chamber and classified according to commercial activity and the most important sectors in the country.The directory offers an important platform that enables investors and businessmen inside and outside Qatar to explore the local market and identify companies of various economic sectors.In general, the Chamber seeks to further develop its digital structure to launch more e-services with the aim to enhance the services provided to the private sector as making transactions and services available digitally would contribute to the state’s efforts to achieve economic development.

3 October 2021

The total value of private sector exports stood at QR12.3bn during

a 56 percent growth compared to QR7.9bn during the same period last year.In July, exports of the private sector amounted to QR1.71bn, showing a year-on-year increase of 43 percent compared to QR1.2bn in June 2020.This increase demonstrated that the Qatari economy has reached the recovery phase and that the private sector exports have overcome the economic implications of the pandemic.

Editor

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Qatar construction sector grows steadily, says Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim

Al-athba reviews cooperation ties with Polish delegation

‘Merwad 6’ inaugurated with the participation of 135 Qatari businesswomen

Qatar Chamber launches new online service to help companies update data

4 October 2021

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Also read in the issue

Qatar-Saudi business council to be activated, resume meetings soon

Qatar attaches great importance to food security, says Al Obaidly

Bin Twar invites Ukrainian companies to invest in Qatar

Qatar, Malaysia trade exchange stands at QR 1.75 bn, says Dr. Al Mohamed

France is an important trade partner to Qatar, says QC Chairman

Sheikh Thani bin Ali: QICCA keen on the dissemination of legal culture in Qatar

QC hosts Qatar-Kazakhstan, Qatar-Malaysian Business Council meetings

QC Chairman: Qatar’s support the Arab joint work

Value of e-commerce in Qatar exceeds $ 2.2 billion, says Qatar Chamber

Qatar private sector exports grew by 56% in H1

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October 2021

News

6 October 2021

France is an important trade partner to Qatar, says QC Chairman

Qatar Chamber’s (QC) Chairman HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani yesterday met with a businessmen delegation from the Qatari-French Economic League (Cadran) and the international branch of the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), who are currently visiting the country. The meeting was also attended by the Qatari Ambassador to France H E Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al Thani, alongside with a number of QC board members and many leading Qatari businessmen.During the meeting, both parties reviewed commercial and investment relations between Qatar and France and ways to enhance them and investment opportunities available in both countries as well as the possibility to establish new commercial alliances.HE Shiekh Khalifa underscored the Chamber’s interest in strengthening cooperation relations between Qatari businessmen and their French counterparts in a way that help increase the two countries’ bilateral trade which stands at QR 5 billion (€ 1.2 billion) last year.France is an important trade partner to Qatar, he said, adding that there are many Qatari investors and businessmen in France which is characterized with

an attractive investment environment and viable opportunities.Sheikh Khalifa also assured the role played by Cadran and MEDEF in bridging Qatari and French private sectors and establishing a slid foundation for forging alliances and commercial partnerships between companies from both countries.Cadran is an independent, non-profit organisation established in 2015 that includes in its membership major Qatari commercial institutions operating in France and major French companies operating in Qatar, as well as significant figures therein.Cadran aims to organise various academic and social events annually to promote dialogue and exchange of views between Qatari and French companies in order to gain a better understanding and comprehension of future investment projects.MEDEF is an employer federation founded in 1998. It represents French companies and is greatly important at the level of the French social debate. It seeks to represent French companies vis-à-vis State institutions and unions. It has more than 750,000 member firms.

News

7 October 2021

Qatar-Saudi business council to be activated, resume meetings soon: Qatar ChamberQatar Chamber (QC) Chairman HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al Thani met on Thursday with Ambassador of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Mansour bin Khalid bin Farhan at the Chamber’s headquarter.The meeting was attended by QC Second Vice Chairman HE Rashid bin Hamad al-Athba and general manager Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi.During the meeting, both sides discussed activating the Qatari-Saudi Joint Business Council and inviting its members to meet as soon as possible, to discuss efforts that contribute to reviving the momentum of trade and investment relations between Qatari and Saudi businessmen.

The meeting also discussed ways of strengthening economic and commercial relations between the two brotherly countries. It also reviewed the role that can be performed by the private sector in both sides in developing the trade exchange and exploring the investment opportunities available, as well as establishing trade alliances between Qatari and Saudi businessmen in a way that underpin commercial and investment relations between both countries.

News

8 October 2021

Qatari businessmen eager to invest in Maldives, says QC First Vice Chairman

Qatar Chamber hosted a meeting with a delegation from Maldives headed by HE Uz Fayyaz Ismail Minister of Economic Development accompanied by HE Uz Ali Zahir, Chief of Staff at the President’s Office.QC First Vice Chairman HE Mohamed bin Ahmed bin Twar Al Kuwari received the delegation at the Chamber’s headquarter.During the meeting, both sides reviewed cooperation aspects between the private sector of both countries and ways of enhancing relations between Qatari businessmen and their counterparts from Maldives.Discussions also touched on the investment climate of both counties and opportunities available in each country and sector in which businessmen can cooperate in.On his part, bin Twar assured the eagerness of Qatari businessmen to establish new investments in friendly countries, pointing to the readiness of Qatar Chamber to inform Qatari investors on the investment opportunities available in Maldives.HE Uz Fayyaz Ismail Minister of Economic Development thanked the Chamber for holding this meeting which highlights cooperation opportunities between the private sector in both sides, confirming his country’s interest to strengthen relations with

Qatar.The minister invited Qatari investors and businessmen to invest in his country in many sectors such as tourism and food processing.HE also said that Maldives adopts promising economic plans and is attaching great importance to economic

diversification, stressing that it is interested to attract foreign investments.The meeting also discussed the possibility to hold a meeting between Qatari businessmen and their Maldivian counterparts to review areas of cooperation to establish commercial alliances and active partnerships that are of advantage to both countries’ economies.

News

9 October 2021

Al-athba reviews cooperation ties with Polish delegation

Qatar Chamber Second Vice Chairman HE Rashid bin Hamad al-Athba met with Ambassador of Poland to Qatar H E Janusz Janke and President of Qatar-Poland

headquarters.The meeting touched on reviewing the cooperation relations in trade and industry sectors between both sides and means to enhancing them, as well as the investment climate in both friendly countries and the possibility of establishing alliances between Qatari businessmen and their Polish peers.On his part, al-Athba paid tribute to the close relations between both countries, noting that their bilateral trade stood at QR 2.7 billion.He also indicated that there are 15 Polish companies operating in Qatar with Qatari partners, stressing the Qatar Chamber’s keenness to bolster cooperation between businessmen from both countries and that the Qatari investors are eager to explore investment climate and opportunities in Poland.Ambassador of Poland to Qatar H E Janusz Janke praised the strong relations between Qatar and his country, pointing out that Poland imports LNG from Qatar and is interested to diversify cooperation relations in commercial aspects.President of Qatar-Poland Business Council

opportunities in Poland which can be tapped by Qatari businessmen, especially in sectors such as IT and electrical industries, inviting Qataris to invest in his country.

News

10 October 2021

Qatar Chamber First Vice Chairman HE Mohamed bin Ahmed bin Twar Al Kuwari met with Head of Trade and Economic Affairs Section at the Delegation of the European Union in Riyadh Patrick Illing at the Chamber’s headquarter.The meeting touched on reviewing cooperation relations between Qatar and EU states in commercial and economic fields and ways to enhance them, as well as the investment opportunities available on both sides.For his part, HE Mohamed bin Twar said that Qatar and the EU states enjoy economic and commercial fruitful cooperation, noting that there are many successful Qatari investments in Europe.He indicated that Qatar welcomes the European investments in various sectors such as services, hospitality, industry, construction, technology, and others, stressing that there is a myriad of cooperation opportunities galore for Qatari and European firms in Qatar, especially that Qatar has a sophisticated infrastructure and pro-investment legislations.On his part, Patrick Illing pointed out that the

distinct relations between the EU countries and Qatar constitute a catalyst for more cooperation between companies from both sides, noting that the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) in the EU can help in strengthening cooperation between Qatari and European companies, especially in the SMEs sector. Both parties discussed the possibility of organising a seminar that gathers companies from both parties to explore areas of cooperation and investment opportunities available in all sectors.It is noteworthy that the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) is the world›s largest support network for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) with international ambitions. It has 4,500 experts across 600 member organizations in more than 60 countries. Member organizations include chambers of commerce and industry, technology centers, and research institutes.The Network helps ambitious SMEs innovate and grow internationally. It provides international business expertise with local knowledge across a range of targeted services.

Qatar Chamber, Delegation of the EU review commercial cooperation

News

11 October 2021

Qatar Chamber launches new online service to help companies update data

Qatar Chamber launches new online service to help companies update dataQatar Chamber (QC) has launched a new electronic service to help private sector companies to update their information and contact details in the Qatar Chamber Commercial & Industrial Directory.The new service helps QC member companies to create their own company profile on the directory and insert information about the company, contact numbers, website, address, location, and other data.

Moreover, it enables companies to update their information that are already present in the directory.In a statement, the Chamber said that companies are invited to create their profile through the Chamber’s website or Qatar e-Government Portal – Hukoomi or through the Qatar Chamber Commercial & Industrial Directory website at www.qatarcid.comQC has invited businessmen and companies’ directors to update their companies’ data through the directory’s website or through Hukoomi portal

News

12 October 2021

by completing the registration and attaching the required documents to verify the validity of data and focal point for each company.After account verification, the company will be able to update its data in the directory and upload its logo, profile, contact data, email and website, social media channels, location, and other information.After completion of all required information on the company’s profile, the Chamber will tag the company profile with “Verified by Qatar Chamber”.QC Commercial & Industrial Directory offers an easy access online tool for computers, tablets, and mobile phones. It is currently witnessing a large turnout from companies willing to update their data.

QC General Manager Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi said that Qatar Chamber Commercial & Industrial Directory is an electronic platform that includes lists of commercial and industrial companies operating in Qatar and registered at the chamber, stressing that it provides an easy tool for communication among companies.Al Sharqi also said that this step confirmed the role played by the Chamber as a representative and booster for the private sector and business community in the country, noting that the Chamber is keen to enhance communication between investors and businessmen of various commercial and industrial activities.This online platform enables foreign investors to explore the local market and identify companies of various economic sectors, he said.The directory aims to provide an updated and accurate database about private sector companies in a way that reflects the contribution of private sector in the Qatari national economy.Al Sharqi also noted that the launch of this service is part of the development plans adopted by the Chamber for serving the private sector, adding that there is a raft of online services that will be launched soon for the Chamber members.

News

13 October 2021

Qatar Chamber Board Member and Chairperson of Qatari Businesswomen Forum met recently with Chargé d›Affairs of the Singaporean Embassy to the State of Qatar Ms. Sumaya Baqavi.The meeting reviewed commercial and economic relations between both countries, investment opportunities galore in both sides and cooperation fields between Qatari businessmen and their Singaporean counterparts. For her part, Al-Ahmadani gave a brief on the role of Qatar Chamber in the national economy through connecting Qatari businessmen with their counterparts from other countries and holding events, forums and exhibitions that support the private sector as well as promoting the Qatari economy and investment opportunities available in the country.She also reviewed the role played by Qatari Businesswomen Forum in representing

businesswomen inside and outside Qatar and linking them with their counterparts in other countries to exchange experience and knowledge and forge genuine partnerships.Al-ahmadani praised the developed relations between Qatar and Singapore in commercial and economic aspects, noting that the Qatari market welcomes Singaporean companies to establish businesses in Qatar and forge partnerships with Qatari firms.On her part, Sumaya Baqavi commended the State of Qatar’s treatment with the pandemic and the ability of Qatari economy to overcome its implications and diversify its sources.She also pointed out to the close cooperation between Qatar and Singapore in energy field, expressing hope for more cooperation between both countries, especially that the FIFA World Cup 2022 is approaching.

Al-ahmadani discusses commercial cooperation ties with Singapore

News

14 October 2021

Qatar Chamber General Manager Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi met with non-resident Ambassador of the Republic of Mongolia to Qatar H E Chintushig Zorigt.During the meeting, they reviewed trading relations between both countries and means to enlacing them, as well as ways to strengthening cooperation between Qatar Chamber and its Mongolian counterpart.They also discussed investment climate in both friendly countries and investment opportunities available in both sides and the possibility to forge alliances between Qatari and Mongolian businessmen and establish joint ventures whether in Qatar or in Mongolia.H E Chintushig Zorigt said that the Mongolian side is planning to organise an exhibition in Qatar to

showcase Mongolian products, stressing that it is keen to cooperate with Qatar Chamber in this regard.H E also stressed the desire of Mongolian private sector to augment cooperation ties with its Qatari counterpart.On his part, Saleh Al Sharqi confirmed the Qatar Chamber’s interest to underpin cooperation between private sectors of the two countries and develop their relations in a way that help in establishing commercial alliances between Qatari and Mongolian firms.He looked forward to strengthening cooperation between both countries’ chambers and establishing a joint mechanism to enhance cooperation at various economic sectors.

Al Sharqi discusses enhancing cooperation between Qatar, Mongolian chambers

Conferences

15 October 2021

Qatar Chamber Chairman HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani led the Chamber’s delegation participating in meetings of in the 37th meeting of the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs in the Union of Arab Chambers was held in Cairo.The meeting touched on the agenda of the 47th session of the Arab Labour Conference which kicked off on Sunday September 5 and runs till September 12.The delegation included QC board member Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, Eng. Naser Al Meer, Director of Legal Affairs Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and Director of Member Affairs Alanoud Al Mohannadi.The 47th session of Arab Labour Conference, which is being organised by the Arab Labour Organisation, will discuss a number of important topics. This includes discussing entrepreneurship and small projects, the path towards sustainable development and empowerment, as well as a report on the achievements of the Arab Labour Organisation during 2019 and 2020.It also includes reviewing the decisions and recommendations of the Board of Directors and following up on the implementation of the decisions of the previous session, as well as financial, plan and budget issues.

It also will discuss the impact of technological development on the work environment, the requirements of the green economy to provide job opportunities.Commenting of the conference, HE Sheikh Khalifa stressed the importance of holding the event in light of the precautionary measures to curb the coronavirus pandemic, noting that these measures have had a significant impact of business sectors in various Arab countries which saw partial or full closures.HE underscored the importance of Arab solidarity in the face of the challenges and negative impacts of the pandemic, stressing the State of Qatar’s support for the Arab joint work to achieve the desired Arab integration.The Arab Labor Organization (ALO) is the first Specialized Arab Organization concerned with labor affairs and employment issues on National Level. ALO is believing in the importance of concerted tripartite in the Arab world, as a need and a core pillar for Arab unity and the recognition that cooperation in the field of employment is the best guarantee for the Arab human rights in decent life, founded on social justice, and the process of effective cooperation for developing Arab society on solid and sound foundations.

Qatar Chamber participates in 47th Arab Labour Conference

Conferences

16 October 2021

Qatar Chamber (QC) Chairman HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim AL Thani headed the Chamber’s delegation participating in the Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry meetings and the 24th Arab-German Business Forum which was held in Berlin from 4 to 6 October in Berlin.The delegation included QC board member Dr Khalid bin Klefeekh Al Hajri and QC general manager Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi.During the joint meeting of the Executive Bureau and Board of Directors of the Arab-German Chamber, both parties reviewed the proposed activities for 2022 to strengthen trade and economic cooperation relations between Germany and the Arab countries.This meeting was followed by the meeting of the General Assembly of the Arab-German Chamber, during which members of Arab and German sides were elected to the Board of Directors. During the meeting, Qatar Chamber was re-elected as a member of the Board of Directors.The Chamber’s delegation also participated in the 24th Arab-German Business Forum which was organised by Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry

in cooperation with Union of Arab Chambers, the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Germany.The forum’s sessions, discussions and workshops focused on shedding light on the main sectors that create opportunities and growth between the Arab and German sides.In a statement, HE Sheikh khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani praised the strong economic relations between Arab countries and Germany, which witnessed a remarkable growth in recent years.He noted that the Covid-19 pandemic had negatively affected the commercial relations between both sides due to the economic closures and disruption of supply chains, indicating that the trade exchange between both sides amounted to about € 36.1 billion last year, showing a decline of 18.5 percent compared to the previous year, stressing the need to revitalize trade exchanges to return to their pre-Covid levels.Sheikh Khalifa also stressed that activating the trade exchange between Arab countries and Germany was one of the important topics that were discussed during

Arab-German trade stands at € 36.1 billion last year, says Qatar Chamber Chairman

Conferences

17 October 2021

the forum.The forum also reviewed other topics related to the development of cooperation between the two sides in various fields such as logistics and transport, urban infrastructure and smart cities, reconstruction, and sustainable development, as well as digitization and how the industry can drive diversification in the Arab countries.It also highlighted the knowledge transfer as a key to business sustainability and digital transformation success, he said, adding that the discussions also dealt with the future of investment and finance in Arab-German business relations.

Elaborating Qatar-Germany relations, QC Chairman said that both countries are linked with strong relations especially in economic and commercial ties, pointing out that their trade volume hit QR 6.4 bn (€ 1.5bn) last year while it reached QR 4.3 bn (€ 1.02 bn) in the first half of this year, an increase of 23 percent compared to QR 3.5 bn (€ 830mn) during the same period last year.HE emphasized the Qatar Chamber’s concern to enhance relations between the Qatari and German private sectors through increasing mutual visits, encouraging the establishment of partnerships between Qatari and German firms and exploring the

investment opportunities available in both countries to help businessmen from both countries to benefit from these opportunities to forge joint ventures, whether in Qatar or in Germany.Sheikh Khalifa also said that there are 150 German companies operating in Qatar, which are active in many fields such as trade, construction, services, services, and medical equipment and others, stressing that the existence of German companies in Qatar is an important addition.

Conferences

18 October 2021

Qatar Chamber First Vice Chairman HE Mohamed bin Twar Al kuwari hailed the strong relations between Qatar and Ukraine, noting that the private sector in both sides have benefited from this development in relations in activating trade and investment cooperation, through exchanging visits between the two sides. He pointed to the Ukrainian-Qatari Business Forum which was held last February through video conferencing to review prospects for cooperation between the private sectors and available investment opportunities in both countries.This came during the meetings of the business delegation and the Qatari-Ukrainian Joint Committee which were held from 31st Aug to September 2 in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev.Al Kuwari also held a meeting with Chairman of Ukraine Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mr Gennadiy Chyzhykov in which he reviewed strengthening cooperation ties between Qatari and Ukrainian businessmen and identifying investment climate in both countries, as well as enhancing

investment opportunities galore in both countries and mutual investments. During these meetings, Al Kuwari stressed the importance of activating the Qatari-Ukrainian business council to perform its desired role in underpinning cooperation between businessmen and streamlining investment procedures in both sides.He also said that thanks to the wise leadership of the Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the State of Qatar has been able to achieve great progress in all fields, especially economic and investment areas, in terms of developing a world class infrastructure and issuing laws and economic legislation that have placed Qatar among the world’s top destinations for investments and business.Qatar has also succeeded in building an attractive investment environment through the facilities and incentives it offers for foreign investors, which allowed 100% ownership as well as exemption from income tax and customs duties on imported machines and equipment, he noted.

Bin Twar invites Ukrainian companies to invest in Qatar

Conferences

19 October 2021

QC Vice Chairman invited Ukrainian companies to invest in Qatar and take advantage of the attractive investment climate and advantages offered by Qatar to foreign investors, as well as the opportunities available in various sectors, especially industry, service, and food security sectors.Elaborating on the state’s concern in developing the food security sector, Al Kuwari said that Qatar pays special attention to this sector, stressing that this is clear in the Qatar National Food Security Strategy 20182023- which is based on four pillars: local production, internal supply chains, international trade, and logistics, and strategic storage.The strategy aims to achieve safe self-sufficiency rates, and to give a significant role to the private sector, whether in investing in the production of agricultural commodities such as vegetables, fish, and red meat, or through importing food commodities needed by the local market. He said that this sector offers great opportunities for cooperation between Qatari and Ukrainian companies with the aim to establish joint ventures in Qatar to enhance food self-sufficiency or in Ukraine to provide the Qatari market with the food supplies it needs.

Conferences

20 October 2021

Qatar Chamber participates in the e-edition of “Arab-Hellenic Food Conference”

Qatar Chamber Board Member and Chairperson of its Food Security and Environment Committee Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Obaidly said that the State of Qatar attaches great importance to food security and strives hard to raise the level of self-sufficiency, noting that it has adopted a national vision aiming to achieve self-sufficiency, reduce imports, develop agriculture and food processing, establish logistic warehouses, and open the scope for investment in this vital sector.This came during the “Arab-Hellenic Food Forum” which was organised by the Arab-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce and Development (AHCCD) from 56- October via video conferencing with the participation of representatives from Arab League, Union of Arab Chambers, Qatar chamber, and many Greek officials.The forum was also attended by a number of representatives from Arab chambers of commerce and private sector institutions.

He also noted that Qatar highly welcomes foreign investors who are willing to invest in food security projects and forge partnerships with Qatari businessmen in food processing for local products such as vegetables, dates, dairy products, table egg, poultry, and fish, stressing that this helps in providing surpluses in production, and achieving self-sufficiency throughout the year, as well as reducing food waste in all its stages.He indicated that Qatar has built a state-of-the-art infrastructure which is eligible to attract mega projects in this sector and in food processing and re-export fields as well.Addressing a session titled “Irrigation Technology, Sustainable Agriculture & Food Processing Industries”, Al Obaidli said that the volume of investments in manufacturing foodstuffs in Qatar reached last year QR 5 billion, registering a growth of 69 percent compared to 2017, while the

number of food processing facilities increased by 55 percent last year.He also said that the beverage sector grew by 22 percent last year compared to 2017, while the number of facilities operating in this sector increased by 40 percent.The conference aimed at exchanging expertise in food sector and enhancing cooperation between Greece and Arab countries.The event opened with remarks by Rashad Mabger, the Secretary General of AHCCD, and an introduction by Suheil Sabbagh, the Vice President.The conference’s agenda consisted of six sessions which touched on topics related to agriculture, food industries, fisheries, water resources, and sustainable agriculture. It also discussed climate change, food production and halal industry with the participation of a galaxy of professions and senior officials in food manufacturing companies from Arab and Greek parties.

Delegations

21 October 2021

Qatar Chamber (QC) hosted a meeting of the Qatar-Kazakhstan Business Council in the presence of the First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Ali Khan Samailov and Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Qatar HE Arman Issagaliyev. Several council members from the two sides were present on the occasion.Delivering a speech on the occasion, Qatar Chamber First Vice Chairman Mohammed bin Ahmed bin Tawar Al Kuwari said that Qatar Chamber was looking forward to establishing commercial partnerships between business owners in the two friendly countries.He pointed out that Qatari-Kazakhstan relations are witnessing a remarkable development in all fields especially in trade, economic and investment sectors.Pointing to the importance of cooperation and exchange of experiences between Qatari companies and their Kazakh counterparts in all sectors, he stressed Qatar Chamber’s keenness to overcome

any obstacles that prevent the establishment of partnerships and joint projects between the private sectors of the two countries.He noted that Qatar Chamber has received much Kazakh trade delegations and has also organised commercial visits to Kazakhstan in recent years.He welcomed Kazakh companies wishing to invest in Qatar.“Many countries faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Qatar succeeded in overcoming the challenges, thanks to its wise management of the crisis. Qatar’s economy was able to show flexibility in facing this crisis and succeed in achieving steady growth,” he said.He called on Kazakh companies to take advantage of the incentives offered by Qatar’s government in the areas of investment in food security, industry, investment and others of commercial fields.

QC hosts Qatar-Kazakhstan Business Council meet

Delegations

22 October 2021

He expressed hope that direct flights between Qatar and Kazakhstan will be established as of next September.Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, the head of the Qatari side in the joint business council, praised trade and investment cooperation between the two friendly countries. Thanks to coordination and communication between the two sides, Obaidli said, the year 2020 witnessed a doubling of the volume of trade compared to 2019. He said that the Qatari-Kazakhstan Business Council seeks to increase the prospects for cooperation between Qatari companies and their counterparts in Kazakhstan, establish joint companies and benefit from the expertise possessed by companies on both sides. He pointed to the interest of Qatari businessmen in identifying opportunities in promising sectors in Kazakhstan and to benefit from investment incentives provided by Kazakhstan.He called on business owners in Kazakhstan to learn about business opportunities in Qatar and take advantage of the facilities and incentives Qatar offers to foreign investors.

Speaking on the occasion, the deputy prime minister of Kazakhstan stressed the depth of relations between the two countries that have a common desire to strengthen and develop relations in various fields, especially trade and investment.He indicated that there are plans to hold a Qatari-Kazakhstan business forum in the Kazakh capital Nur Sultan soon in order to strengthen economic and trade relations between the two sides. He pointing out that there are many areas such as agriculture, construction, tourism, financial institutions, and industrial businesses where cooperation can be strengthened.He called on Qatari businessmen to identify the opportunities available in these sectors. He pointed out that Kazakhstan is the largest economy in the Central Asian region and has great resource potentials such as plutonium and precious metals. “The country is also characterised by a good geographical location and has good relations with both Russia and China. These are the many advantages that make Kazakhstan attractive to investments,” Samailov said.

Delegations

23 October 2021

Almassadam Satkaliyev, head of the Kazakh side in the Joint Business Council, stressed that the council seeks to establish a strategic partnership between the two sides that will be the beginning of a new phase of economic and trade relations. He pointed to the importance of regular communication between the two sides and activating all procedures related to the joint business council.He pointed out that there are many joint investment projects, especially in the agricultural fields, and that there is a desire to increase these projects.

Deputy Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuntirov delivered a speech on the occasion in which he praised the trade relations between the two countries. He pointed out that there are broader areas of investment cooperation, especially in the fields of banking, air freight and air transport.Kazakhstan Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ruslan Manatayev said that the government is implementing a development programme for the agricultural sector in the country that has resulted in many opportunities for investment in this vital sector. He pointed out that there are about 5 million square kilometres of arable land with the availability of groundwater that makes the agricultural sector attractive for investment.The council held a panel entitled ‘Economic and Investment Prospects for Cooperation between Qatar and Kazakhstan’ with the participation of a number of business owners and representatives of companies on both sides. The available investment opportunities and the most important projects in a number of sectors in which the two sides can cooperate were reviewed, and the

participants were introduced to the most important incentives and facilities provided by the two countries to foreign investors.During the meeting, Qatari businessman Ahmed Al Khalaf said that holding a joint business council and joint meetings between Qatari and Kazakh businessmen would enhance cooperation and increase trade exchange between the two countries. During a session held via videoconference, the director-general of the International Islamic Food Processing Association said that there are many areas that can witness joint Qatari-Kazakh projects, especially in food security projects. Stressing the role of the Qatar-Kazakhstan Business Council in strengthening joint cooperation, he said the Islamic commercial institutions in the two countries can cooperate with each other. The two sides reviewed the most important investment opportunities and projects available in the sectors of agriculture, livestock, mining and others. The speakers also reviewed the most important tourist destinations in Kazakhstan. blockade.

Delegations

24 October 2021

The Qatar-Malaysian Business Council reviews bilateral relations

The Qatar-Malaysian Business Council held its recent meeting on Tuesday, September 21 via video conference technology.Qatar Chamber board member Dr. Mohamed Jawhar Al Mohamed headed the Qatari side in the council, while the Malaysian side was led by Mohamed Razeek Hussain.Speaking to participants, Dr. Al Mohamed lauded commended the relations between Qatar and Malaysia, noting that they witnessed substantial development during the past few years thanks to the mutual visits made between leaders of both countries, government officials, and private sector representatives.He also said that visits between leaders have contributed to developing the relations between both countries and taking them to higher levels in all fields, especially in economic and trading fields, as well as in investments and human and social development in a way that better serves the two countries’ common

interests.Both countries have signed many agreements and MOUs in many fields which added further impetus to their growing relations, he noted.Regarding the economic cooperation, Al Mohamed pointed out that Malaysia is one of Qatar’s important trade partners, pointing out that their trade exchange reached about QR 1.75 bn last year and the number of Malaysian companies operating in Qatar reached 40 companies, of which 5 companies with full Malaysian capital which are active in various economic sectors.QC Board Member also indicated that Malaysia is a distinguished destination for Qatari investments which are distributed in many fields including tourism, hospitality, finance, real estate, and industry.Elaborating Qatar’s economic growth, Al Mohamed said that while Malaysia succeeded to build a strong economy based on the optimal use of high technology, Qatar has managed to build an economy

Delegations

25 October 2021

that is among the fastest-growing economies worldwide and established a sophisticated infrastructure, in addition to issuing several legislation and laws that helped in attracting a host of leading foreign and international investments and companies.Qatari market is promising and welcomes all investments, he confirmed, calling Malaysian companies to increase their investments in Qatar and benefit from the incentives offered by the state for foreign investors such as the Investment of Non-Capital in the Economic Activity Law which allows full ownership in most economic sectors, in addition to the incentives offered by the free, industrial, and logistic zones.He called Qatari and Malaysian businessmen to take advantage of the huge potential available in both countries and investment incentives to establish joint businesses and projects, especially with the approach of FIFA World Cup 2022 in QATAR which offer a myriad of opportunities for more cooperation between the Qatari private sector and its Malaysian counterpart.On his part, the head of the Malaysian

side Mohamed Razeek Hussain thanked Qatar Chamber for hosting the meeting, indicating that the meeting offers a good opportunity for both countries’ businessmen to explore areas of bilateral cooperation for the advantage of both economies.Hussain also hoped that efforts made by both parties would lead to more partnerships in both countries in many sectors like industry, agriculture, hospitality, real estate, oil, and gas, and others, expressing the readiness to help Qatari investors enter the Malaysian market and markets of East Asian countries too.During the meeting, Qatar Chamber delivered a presentation about doing business in Qatar, highlighting features of Qatar›s economy and incentives offered by the state to attract foreign investments.On the other hand, the Malaysian side gave a presentation on the most important sectors for investment and policies of business and investment, as well as the incentives provided by the country to enhance the investment climate.

Qatar, Malaysia trade exchange stands at QR 1.75 bn, says Dr. Al Mohamed

Delegations

26 October 2021

Qatar-Cuba Business Forum reviews boosting mutual investments

Qatar Chamber’s Board Member and Chairperson of Health Committee Mrs. Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani said that the private sector in the State of Qatar and the Republic of Cuba are looking forward to broadening their cooperation, forging joint projects, and taking their commercial cooperation to higher levels.This came during the Qatar-Cuba Business Forum which was held virtually on Tuesday in the presence of Vice President of Cuba Chamber of Commerce Rubén Ramos Arrieta and ambassador of Cuba to the State of Qatar H.E. Oscar León González.Al Ahmadani also stressed the need to develop the commercial and economic relations between the Qatari private sector and its Cuban counterpart in light of the huge potential owned by both countries.She referred to the visit of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Cuba in 2015 which represented a landmark in the march of both countries’ relationship, noting that it concluded with

the signature of many agreements in various fields.She pointed out that Qatar has successfully dealt with the economic impacts resulted by the coronavirus pandemic, adding that it also has issued an array of legislation and laws with the aim to streamline doing businesses in the country.Terming the Qatari market as promising and open before foreign investments, Al Ahmadani invited Cuban companies to invest in Qatar and benefit from the opportunities available in all sectors.QC Board Member emphasized the Chamber’s concern to encourage Qatari investors to invest in Cuba and explore the opportunities galore there, especially in the light of the Qatar’s economic diversification strategy that stimulates establishing external investments in friendly countries.On his part, Vice President of Cuban Chamber of Commerce Rubén Ramos Arrieta lauded the distinguished relations between Qatar and Cuba,

Delegations

27 October 2021

stressing the role than can be performed by the private sector in underpinning their commercial cooperation.“Cuba Chamber highly welcomes Qatari investments and is ready to help investors willing to set up projects in Cuba,” he assured, inviting the Qatari side to participate in ‘Havana International Fair’ that will be held earlier next year.Ambassador of Cuba to the State of Qatar H.E. Oscar León González praised the fast-growing relations between both countries, noting that the Cuban Hospital in Dukhan is a fruit of the successful collaboration between the two countries.

González assured that there is a wide range of fields in which companies from both countries can cooperate in such as tourism, education, health, pharmaceuticals, and others. For his part, Senior Analyst at Qatar Free Zone Authority (QFZA) Bader Yusuf Al Sai delivered a presentation on the investment incentives offered by QFZA in Ras Bu Fontas, Msheireb and Umm Al Houl zones, noting that the free zones managed to attract major international brands and companies.

In turn, the Cuban side gave a presentation on the Cuban investment environment, business climate, economic laws and incentives offered by the Cuban free zones.The presentation also touched on the launch of about 503 foreign investment projects in Cuba during the current year in areas such as construction, tourism, energy, and food production, as well as other fields.

Seminars

28 October 2021

QICCA executive highlights role of Qatari women in arbitration

Qatari women have been able to prove their position in the society and participate positively in the economic boom witnessed by the State “thanks to the great support of the wise leadership on the importance of the effective participation of women in all aspects of life,” Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) board member for International Relations Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali al-Thani has said.Sheikh Thani made the statement in light of the recently held seminar titled ‘Women in Alternative Dispute Resolution – Inspiration and Empowerment’ organised by the International Chamber of Commerce Young Arbitrators Forum (ICC YAF),

which also operates in Qatar.According to Sheikh Thani, “the door is open” for women to enter the field of arbitration, adding that there are leading Qatari female lawyers who are “highly qualified and of high quality.”“QICCA is ready to provide support for Qatari female arbitrators through training and granting them the opportunity to participate in the arbitration cases that are settled by the centre,” Sheikh Thani stressed.The event, which was attended by 144 professionals from 34 countries, aims to shed light on the state of representation of women in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), existing programmes and initiatives for recruitment and training to increase diversity

in ADR, the career benefits for women pursuing ADR training, and how women can effectively establish themselves in the ADR arena.ICC YAF is an interactive forum under the aegis of the International Chamber of Commerce for young arbitration practitioners of approximately 40 years and under. The committee aims to strengthen ties among younger members of the international arbitration community, provide opportunities to meet and discuss current issues facing the international arbitration practice, and to build a rich international network via the organisation of educational and social events. blockade.

Seminars

29 October 2021

Sheikh Thani bin Ali: QICCA keen on the dissemination of legal culture in Qatar

Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) Board Member for International Relations Sheikh Dr. Thani bin Ali Al Thani participated in the opening session of the “Professional Certificate in Legal Qualities - Practical Legal Skills” which kicked off on Thursday and runs to October 2 via video conferencing.The programme, which is being organised by the International Academy for Mediation and Arbitration, comprises three workshops; each one includes 15 training hours.The programme saw the participation of many lawyers, arbitrators, legal researchers, contract engineers, project directors, staff member in faculties of law and students of faculties of law.Speaking at the opening ceremony

of the opening ceremony, Sheikh Thani said that legal profession is part of the human heritage, noting that according to article (2) of the Qatari legal profession law, it means “a free profession that aims to achieve justice and contributes with the judiciary in establishing its rules and cooperation of litigants in defending their rights and freedoms. Lawyers in practicing their profession enjoy rights and the guarantees stipulated in this law”.Sheikh Thani stressed the importance of training programs in refining the skills of lawyers and legal experts, pointing out that QICCA is keenly interested in disseminating legal culture in the State of Qatar through organizing training courses throughout the year in various legal fields.QICCA holds regularly the ‘Qualification and Preparation of

the Arbitrators Programme’ which aims to qualify participants to practice arbitration in the country.HE praised the content of the “Professional Certificate in Legal Qualities - Practical Legal Skills” programme, noting that the first workshop focuses on analysis, adaptation, and legal reasoning.He said that the language of law is described as the language of persuasion because it is a language that addresses the mind with sound logic and is based on argument and proof.The second workshop deals with drafting of memoranda, proceedings, and judicial appeals, while the third workshop discusses drafting contracts and providing legal advice.

Exhibitions

30 October 2021

Qatar construction sector grows steadily, says Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim

Qatar Chamber Chairman HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani praised the Build Your House Exhibition (BYH 21), noting that it presents a unique variety of advanced technologies in the fields of architecture, interior design, construction and building materials. HE pointed out that the expo, which is being held from September 20 to 22 at the Qatar National Convention Center, saw the participation of over 150 local companies that are willing to showcase their expertise and services to help citizens build their houses.In a statement on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of BYH 2021, Sheikh Khalifa emphasized the Qatar Chamber’s support for the exhibition as an official sponsor stemmed out from its interest to support the exhibitions industry in the country and the Qatari private sector in general.BYH exhibition is one of the most important exhibitions that is not only concerned with displaying the products used in construction processes, but also reviews the construction stages, starting from issuing licenses, choosing consultant, designing, security and safety standards that must be considered when building houses, up until selecting of building materials, construction contracting companies and smart solutions for building houses.QC Chairman also said that the construction sector in Qatar is seeing continuous growth, supported by the economic expansion in the country and the acceleration of projects related to the FIFA World Cup 2022, indicating that the negative impacts of Covid-19 on the sector have entirely disappeared, expecting that the sector will witness further growth in the coming years.

Exhibitions

31 October 2021

Qatar Chamber Board Member and Chairperson of the Qatari Businesswomen Forum Ibtihaj Al-Ahmadani opened on Friday (October 1) the sixth edition of Merwad Exhibition with the participation of more than 135 Qatari businesswomen and many designers from GCC states, Lebanon, Turkey, and India.Sponsored by Qatar Chamber and supported by the Qatar Businesswomen Forum, the expo runs to Wednesday (October 6) at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).Director of Vouge Event Company Tamader Al Marri attended the opening ceremony in the presence of a galaxy of leading businesswomen and entrepreneurs.The six-day expo displays 150 booths presenting latest innovations in the field of fashion for fall-winter 2021, in addition to a variety of women’s supplies and accessories.

‘Merwad 6’ inaugurated with the participation of 135 Qatari businesswomen

Exhibitions

32 October 2021

Al-Ahmadani toured the expo’s pavilions and got acquainted with the displayed items and designs which are being introduced by Qatari designers, along with some designers from the countries participating in the exhibition.On this occasion, Al-Ahmadani said that the expo reflected the innovations of Qatari designers in the field of fashion and women’s supplies and highlighted the development of this feild, noting that the expo’s previous editions had presented a large variety of high-end Arab fashion and luxurious abayas, adding in this edition new innovations that indicate the development of this sector.She underscored the Chamber’s concern to support exhibitions that are held by Qatari businesswomen to help them promote their products, pointing to the Qatari Businesswomen Forum’s role in supporting businesswoman and stimulating them to maximize their contribution in the economic activity.

She also praised the innovations of Qatari designers, assuring that the large Arab and foreign participation in the expo reflects the increasing development of the exhibition.Speaking on the occasion, director of Vouge Event Company Tamader Al Marri said that the number of participating companies in this year edition affirms the expo’s development year after year, pointing out that it includes 150 booths, and it witnesses participation of Lebanese designers for the first time, alongside with designers from GCC states, Turkey, and India.She paid tribute to the Qatar Chamber for sponsoring the expo and the Qatari Businesswomen Forum for providing the support, noting that this support emphasized the key role played by the Forum in supporting the Qatari woman and enhancing the role of businesswomen and entrepreneurs in the national economy.

Reports

33 October 2021

Qatar private sector exports grew by 56% in H1, says Qatar Chamber

The newsletter, prepared by QCs Research & Studies Department, highlighted a report about exports of the private sector in June and during the first half of 2021. The newsletter said that the total value of private sector exports stood at QR 12.3 billion during the first half of this year, reflecting a 56 percent growth compared to QR 7.9 billion during the same period

last year.Data showed that Qatari non-oil exports have recovered from the negative impacts of Covid-19 and registered a significant increase whether on month-to-month base or on quarterly-to-quarterly base. Private sector exports in Q2 of this year amounted to QR 7.2 billion, recording an increase of 41 percent compared to QR 5.1 billion in Q1.

In the first half of 2021, Oman topped destinations of Qatari exports, receiving about QR 2.58 billion.In June, exports of the private sector amounted to QR 2.534 billion, showing a month-on-month decrease of 1.4 percent compared to QR 2.570 billion in May, while on a year-on-year basis, they increased by 161 percent

Qatar Chamber has issued its monthly economic newsletter for August which highlighted the most prominent trends in the Qatari economy, as well as statistics related to foreign trade and trade of private sector in June 2021 according to certificates of origin issued by the Chamber.

Reports

34 October 2021

compared to QR 973 million as in June 2020.This increase demonstrated that the private sector has reached the recovery phase and its exports have bypassed their levels at the beginning of the pandemic.This increase of private sector exports in June compared to the same month last year is attributed to the increase in exports through all types of certificates except for the Unified Arab Model which decreased by 26.4 percent.Exports through Unified GCC model recorded a sharp increase of 319.4 percent, followed by the General Model which increased by 185.7 percent and exports through GSP model certificate which grew by 9.4 percent.On month-to-month base, exports of private sector increased through the Arab Unified Model and Unified GCC Model by 54.71 percent and 48.55 percent respectively. While exports though the General Model, Singapore and GPS decreased by 19 percent, 18 percent, and 12 percent respectively.

Type of commoditiesIn June 2021, the private sector’s exports of essential oils decreased by 34.2 on month-to-month base, while they increased by 1413 percent on year-to-year base while steel exports decreased by 52.1 percent on month-to-month base, while they increased by 24.2 percent on year-to-year base.Aluminium exports increased by 67 percent on month-to-month base and by 74.2 percent on year-to-year base, while industrial gases exports increased by 326 percent on month-to-month base and by 112 percent on year-to-year base.Lotrene exports did not register any change on -month-to-month base, while they increased by 49.8 percent on year-to-year base.Chemical fertilizers did not register any exports in May, while they decreased by 99 percent on year-to-year base.Petrochemicals increased by 1050 percent on month-to-month base, and 134 percent on year-to-year base, while paraffin exports decreased by 25.4 percent on month-to-month base and 16.7 percent on year-to-year base and chemical substances increased by 190 percent on month-to-month base and by 28.8 percent on year-to-year base.

Reports

35 October 2021

Private Sector PartnersAs for economic blocs and groupings, Asian countries were at the top of economic blocs that received exports of private sector amounted to QR 1343 million with a share of 53 percent of the total value, followed by GCC states with a share of 33 percent with exports of QR 833.7 million.In third place came the group of EU states, with exports totaling QR 250.3million representing 10 percent of the total value, followed by Arab countries excluding GCC states that received 66.1 million, a share of 3 percent, African Countries Group with exports amounted to QR 21.8 million, or a share of 1 percent of the total exports and USA with exports amounted to 18 million, or a share of 1 percent. While Other European Countries Group received exports of QR 1.4 million.In June 2021, Oman was at the top of the countries of destination of private sector’s exports with close to QR 517.6 million, a share of 20.4 percent of the total exports.It is followed by India with almost QR 487.7 million and a share of 19.2 percent and UAE with about QR 285.4 million, a share of 11.3 percent. China came in fourth place with almost QR 261.5 million, a share of 10.3 percent and Hong Kong with exports amounted to about QR 250.7 million, a share

of 9.9 percent.The value of private sector exports to these countries represented 71.1 percent of the total value of exports during the same month.Foreign TradeThe QC newsletter said that according to the figures given by The Planning and Statistics Authority for June 2021, the total value of foreign merchandise trade amounted to QR 33.7 billion, showing an increase of 1.5 percent compared to QR 33.2 billion in May 2021.In June 2021, the total exports of goods (including exports of goods of domestic origin and re-exports) amounted to around QR 25.4 billion, showing an increase of 1.8 percent compared to QR 24.9 billion in May.The imports of goods in the said month amounted to around QR 8.3 billion. Therefore, the country’s foreign merchandise trade balance, which represents the difference between total exports and imports, showed a surplus of QR 17 billion almost, recording a decrease of 2.7 percent compared to QR 16.6 billion in May.In June 2021, China was at the top of the countries of destination of Qatar’s foreign trade with about QR 4.6 billion, a share of 13.9 percent of the state’s total foreign trade

Reports

36 October 2021

Qatar Chamber: Qatar private sector exports grew by 43% in July

The newsletter, prepared by QCs Research & Studies Department, highlighted a report about exports of the private sector in July 2021. The newsletter said

that exports of the private sector in July as per certificates of origin issued by the Chamber amounted

to QR 1.71 billion, showing a year-to-year increase of 43 percent compared to QR 1.2 billion in the same month last year.Data showed that the value of

exports in July remains close to its highest level at the beginning of pandemic, which

amounted to QR 1.95 bn in February 2020, while it registered a sharp increase of 200 percent when compared to the lowest level in April 2020, which saw the strict implication of precautionary measure to curb the spread of COvid-19.Exports according to the type of accommodationIn July 2021, the private sector’s exports of essential oils decreased by 34.8 on month-to-month base, while they increased by 45.8 percent on year-to-year base.Aluminum exports decreased by 25 percent on month-to-month base, while they increased by 44.3 percent on year-to-year base. Industrial gases exports decreased by 65.8 percent on month-to-month base and by 43.1 percent on year-to-year base, while lotrene exports increased by 18.7 percent on -month-to-month base and by 47.6 percent on year-to-year base.

Qatar Chamber has issued its monthly economic newsletter for September which highlighted the most prominent trends in the Qatari economy, as well as statistics related to foreign trade and trade of private sector in July according to certificates of origin issued by the Chamber.

Reports

37 October 2021

Paraffin exports increased by 68.7 percent on month-to-month base and 101.7 percent on year-to-year base, while chemical fertilizers decreased by 50.9 percent on month-to-month base and by 15 percent on year-to-year base.Petrochemicals increased by 7.8 percent on month-to-month base, and 117.3 percent on year-to-year base, while steel exports decreased by 99.3 percent on month-to-month base and by 250 percent on year-to-year base.Chemical substances decreased slightly on month-to-month base, while they increased by 157 percent on year-to-year base.

Private Sector PartnersAs for economic blocs and groupings, GCC states bloc were at the top of economic blocs that received exports of private sector amounted to QR 687 million with a share of 40.1 percent of the total value, followed by Asian countries excluding GCC states with a share of 32.2 percent with exports of QR 553 million.In third place came the group of EU states, with exports totaling QR 362 million representing 21.1 percent of the total value, followed by Arab countries excluding Arab countries excluding GCC states that received 80 million, a share of 4.6 percent, African Countries Group excluding Arab countries with exports amounted to QR 16 million, or a share of 0.9 percent of the total exports and USA with exports amounted to 11 million, or a share of 0.6 percent. While Other European Countries Group received exports of QR 0.4 million.In June 2021, Oman was at the top of the countries of destination of private sector’s exports with close to QR 426 million, a share of 24.8 percent of the total exports.It is followed by India with almost QR 380 million and a share of 22.2 percent and UAE with about QR 244 million, a share of 14.3 percent. Netherlands came in fourth place with almost QR 189 million, a share of 11 percent and Germany with exports amounted to about QR 118 million, a share of 6.9 percent.The value of private sector exports to these countries represented 79.2 percent of the total value of exports during the same month.

Reports

38 October 2021

Foreign TradeThe QC newsletter said that according to the figures given by The Planning and Statistics Authority for July, the total value of foreign merchandise trade amounted to QR 35.34 billion, showing an increase of 5.2 percent compared to QR 33.58 bn in June and a significant increase of 68.7 percent compared to QR 20.95 bn in July last year.In July 2021, the total exports of goods (including exports of goods of domestic origin and re-exports) amounted to around QR 27.47 bn, showing a sharp increase of 101.9 percent compared to QR 13.60 bn in July last year and an increase of 8.7 percent compared to QR 25.27 bn in June 2021.The imports of goods in the said month amounted to around QR 7.87 billion, recording a decrease of 5.3 percent compared to QR 8.31 bn in June.

Therefore, the country’s foreign merchandise trade balance, which represents the difference between total exports and imports, showed a surplus of QR 19.6 billion almost, recording a decrease of 15.5 percent compared to the previous month, while on a yearly base it increased by 213 percent.In July, China was at the top of the countries of destination of Qatar’s foreign trade with about QR 5.65 billion, a share of 15.98 percent of the state’s total foreign trade.

Reports

39 October 2021

Value of e-commerce in Qatar exceeds $ 2.2 billion, says Qatar Chamber

The value of electronic commerce (e-commerce) in Qatar exceeded $ 2.2 billion in 2020 compared to $ 1.5 billion in 2019, showing an increase of 47 percent, a recent study conducted by Qatar Chamber revealed.The study titled ‘E-Commerce in the State of Qatar: Reality, Challenges and Solutions’ also said that the volume of e-commerce in the state is expected to hit $2.3 billion in the current year.The reports touched on the emergence of e-Commerce, its related concepts and advantage, as well as the infrastructure of e-commerce in Qatar and how it contributes to achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030. It also discussed current expenditure and growth of e-commerce sector in Qatar, in addition to the legislation, laws, and facilities provided by the state to facilitate and support e-commerce. It also highlighted the initiatives adopted by the state to encourage and stimulate this sector, challenges facing e-commerce.

Reports

40 October 2021

Accelerated developmentAccording to the study, the volume of online shopping is estimated at $25 trillion in sales globally in 2018, with the number of e-shoppers reaching 1.66 billion worldwide, including nearly 9% of the international retail market.It indicated that e-commerce has become more necessary to carry out business than it was before due to the increase of consumer awareness in light of the increasing penetration rate of the use of internet services with broadband and high-frequency, as well as the availability of advanced infrastructure for the internet and smart phone, which contributes to having a significant impact on how to carry out business between the business-to-consumer sector and the business-to-business sector. It confirmed that the State of Qatar was not far from this development, as the E-Commerce document, which is the first of its kind in the State of Qatar, drew the broad lines of the current situation of e-commerce in the State of Qatar.The study confirmed that Qatar has a suitable environment for the adoption of e-Commerce and has a developed infrastructure for the internet. It ranks first among the highest countries in the world in terms of the deployment of fixed fiber networks and occupies a leading position in the implementation of mobile networks and the fifth generation. It also ranks second globally out of 175 countries in the internet speed test via mobile networks, and its citizens and residents enjoy high levels of income. Being at the top resulted in a high rate of per capita spending on luxury products, especially in electronic purchases. It said that the availability of online accounts for citizens over the age of 15, the spread of bank accounts, postal reliability, the increasing use of e-applications at the level of ministries and government institutions in the framework of e-government development and the advanced legislation in this field, which enhances confidence and reliability in electronic services; all have helped in the great spread in the use of means of communication and information technology, where the average single purchase transaction carried out by a Qatari citizen amounted 260 dollars. Qatar ranked first in the Gulf and fifth globally in the mobile internet flow speed index, with a rate of 59.90 megabytes. It also ranked first in the Gulf and 39 globally in the level of fixed broadband internet, according to the “Speed Test” website.Currently, Qatar ranks seventh in e-commerce among the business-to-consumer sector in terms of the volume of transactions in the Middle East and North Africa.

Click here to view the study

$25 trillion volume of online shopping

$1.66 billion e-shoppers worldwide

Reports

41 October 2021

Qatar among the the top 50in e-commerce sector growth

$ 2.2 billionthe e-commerce market in Qatar

Significant growthThe study also said that the e-commerce sector in Qatar saw a significant growth, as it rose in 2019 to rank 47 compared to 59 in 2018, to join the list of the top 50, which includes 152 countries, which means that Qatar is better than 105 countries according to the 2019 E-Commerce Index issued by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), an indicator that monitors the progress of countries according to 4 sub-indicators, including: the prevalence of internet use, the availability of electronic accounts for citizens over the age of 15, the spread of bank accounts, and postal reliability.It referred to the expectations of the Planning and Statistics Authority that indicated to a growth in the transactions of the e-commerce sector at a compound annual growth rate of 17% until 2025. Corona virus The study pointed out to the outbreak of the Corona virus epidemic in all countries of the world which had a negative impact on large sectors of the international and local economy in many countries, but in return some sectors were able to achieve great rise and growth such as “E-Commerce” and E-Commerce flourished in various countries of the world. It indicated that most large, medium, and even small companies have made a qualitative leap in terms of spread, marketing and pumping into the markets within the framework of the economic closure that occurred to confront the outbreak of the virus.It assured that e-commerce witnessed a strong renaissance in Qatar during 2020, the year of the Corona epidemic, during which the State of Qatar went through a partial and comprehensive economic closure like other countries of the world.It referred to a study prepared by the Arab Monetary Fund which indicated that the pandemic has been accompanied by an increase in the use of mobile phones by 50%, and an increase in the use of online data by 40%, which has allowed many companies operating in Qatar to prove themselves in light of the crisis, which has increased their presence and increased their shares in the active local market. The prevalence of e-commerce in Qatar is estimated at 14%.$ 2.2 billionThe Qatar Chamber’s study showed that the size of the e-commerce market in Qatar during 2020 amounted $2.2 billion, distributed almost equally between businesses’ dealings with each other and between businesses and consumers.

Reports

42 October 2021

Local companies accounted for about 38% of the total value of these transactions, while the share of foreign companies accounted for 62%. Qatar is the seventh largest online market in the Middle East and North Africa, and the Ministry of Transport and Communications expects the market size to reach 12 billion riyals by 2022, and the value of e-commerce transactions is expected to jump over the next three years to about 150%.It said that the transactions of this sector account for more than $2 trillion of total commercial transactions around the world, and Qatar leads the Middle East countries in terms of the average value of a single transaction, which amounts $264 per transaction. E-Commerce companies witnessed an increase in their numbers during 2020, as it was 350 companies at the end of June, and their number reached 416 companies in December 2020, which means the establishment of 66 new e-commerce companies in 6 months.The most important activities in this sector are food products and food delivery, groceries, clothes, gifts, electronics, and products related to beauty and fashion equipment, health in addition to technical games and sports, travel, digital books, hotel reservations, household items, and spare parts of cars.

ChallengesThe study also elaborated the challenges facing e-commerce in Qatar which include the weak coordination between the relevant authorities to set a clear system and policy for e-commerce to facilitate the registration and establishment of small and medium-sized companies for local and international investors.Challenges also include the consumers’ low awareness of the options available in e-commerce and the weak spread of e-commerce among large numbers of temporary low-wage workers, which hinders efforts to promote e-commerce among these categories.They also include the complexity of e-payment rules and systems and the high-cost collection process which constitutes an obstacle for SMEs, as most payments in Qatar are made by the method of cash on delivery, which is the most common and acceptable among shoppers, and represents 75% of the total e-commerce payments according to official statistics, in addition to limited number of e-payment methods such as credit cards, which represent 19%, then PayPal accounting for 6%, and others.

RecommendationsThe study recommended to develop policies, regulations, systems, and laws that support the practice of e-commerce in the State.It also recommended to activate and encourage e-payment by facilitating the ability of merchants to collect and activate prepaid bank cards and digital wallet technology, evaluate opportunities to provide simplified procedures for accrediting payment institutions and electronic financial institutions, facilitate the issuance of e-payment tools such as prepaid cards and digital wallets, and study the development of the “E-Payment Law”, which could contribute to regulating the e-commerce market, and simultaneously would allow payment service providers to obtain the licenses required to conduct their business.It also recommended to motivate the consumer to practice and use e-commerce and develop a single-window shop portal for workers in a simple way to help them use the portal and benefit from e-services via the internet on demand.It urged to empower merchants by facilitating and supporting the registration process of start-ups and related activities to help SMEs increase their presence on the internet.