Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar Chamber (QC) has highlighted 2024 as a year filled with significant achievements, extensive activities, and innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing the national economy and advancing Qatar’s journey toward achieving its National Vision 2030. In a comprehensive statement issued on January 6, the Chamber detailed its efforts to support the business community, promote investment opportunities, and position Qatar as a global leader in trade and commerce.
Throughout the year, Qatar Chamber demonstrated its steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable development. These efforts were aligned with the third National Development Strategy (2024–2030), which prioritizes economic growth and environmental sustainability. The Chamber’s activities underscored its vital role in representing Qatar’s private sector, addressing challenges, and creating opportunities for businesses to thrive in a competitive global market.
One of the most impactful measures undertaken by the Chamber in 2024 was the reduction of service fees in accordance with Cabinet Decision No. 19 of 2024. This initiative aimed to ease the financial burden on Qatari companies, encourage investment, and stimulate economic activity. By reducing costs for businesses, the Chamber provided tangible support to the private sector, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for growth.
Qatar Chamber took significant strides in fostering regional and international collaboration. A notable initiative was the launch of the "Made in the Gulf” program, which aims to promote economic integration and industrial development across GCC countries. The initiative reflects the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening ties within the region and enhancing the global competitiveness of Gulf-based industries.
During a consultative meeting of GCC Ministers of Commerce and Industry, the Chamber proposed a comprehensive study to assess the impact of a carbon tax on regional economies. This proposal highlights QC’s proactive approach to addressing emerging challenges and ensuring sustainable development. The year 2024 witnessed several prominent appointments of Qatar Chamber representatives to international and regional organizations:
QC Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani was appointed as the first vice president of the Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Ghorfa). Ali bin Abdullatif Al-Mesned, QC Board Member and President of the Qatar Association for Freight Forwarding and Logistics (QAFL), was elected vice chair of the Region Africa and Middle East (RAME) for the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA).
Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani, QC board member and president of the Qatari Businesswomen Forum, was appointed as a member of the Arab Women Investors Union’s Board of Trustees and as a consultant to its Supreme Trade Committee.
Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi, former QC General Manager, was named Secretary-General of the Federation of Chambers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (FGCCC).
To modernise and streamline its operations, Qatar Chamber invested heavily in enhancing its digital infrastructure. This digital transformation enabled faster and more efficient services for its members, affiliated companies, and institutions. By the end of the year, QC had processed a total of 154,778 transactions, including 50,262 certificates of origin, of which an impressive 49,405 were issued electronically. This shift to electronic services highlights QC’s commitment to innovation and efficiency.
In addition, preparations were finalized for the chamber’s new headquarters at the "Boulevard” in Lusail. The state-of-the-art facility is set to serve as a hub for business activities, providing a world-class environment for its members.
The chamber’s membership base grew significantly in 2024, with 1,400 new affiliates joining, bringing the total number of members to 66,771. This growth reflects the increasing confidence of the business community in Qatar Chamber as a vital partner in their success.
Qatar Chamber organized and participated in a remarkable number of activities throughout the year, totaling 280 events. These included 80 meetings with foreign trade delegations, featuring interactions with heads of state, government officials, ministers, and representatives of international organisations and chambers of commerce.
Almost 26 forums and conferences, which served as platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas and 13 business meetings aimed at strengthening trade ties and exploring investment opportunities. The Chamber also signed 15 Memoranda of Understanding with counterpart chambers and other entities, fostering international cooperation and opening new avenues for collaboration.
Recognising the importance of skill development, Qatar Chamber organized numerous training programs and workshops. These covered a wide range of topics, including artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, and specialized training for customs brokers and food handlers. Additionally, QC introduced programs to support students with learning disabilities in 28 schools, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility.
The Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA), an affiliate of Qatar Chamber, played a pivotal role in resolving business disputes. In 2024, the Centre handled 66 arbitration cases and 4 conciliation requests, successfully facilitating 3 settlement processes. QICCA also issued 24 arbitral awards and hosted the fifth edition of the ‘World Conference on International Arbitration,’ attracting prominent legal experts and arbitrators from around the globe.
A major milestone in 2024 was the launch of the Qatar Association for Freight Forwarding and Logistics (QAFL). This new entity represents the freight forwarding sector in Qatar and serves as the official representative of FIATA in the state. QAFL acts as a bridge between logistics companies and relevant authorities, ensuring smooth operations and addressing sector-specific challenges.
Qatar Chamber sponsored and participated in several key exhibitions during the year, showcasing Qatar’s potential across various industries. Notable events included the Qatar Digital Trust Roadshow 2024, organized in collaboration with the British Standards Institution (BSI), which highlighted advancements in cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.
As Qatar Chamber looks to the future, it remains committed to enhancing the business environment, promoting sustainable development, and supporting Qatar’s private sector. With its new headquarters set to open and a strong foundation of achievements in 2024, QC is poised to play an even greater role in driving economic growth and strengthening Qatar’s global trade footprint.
By continuing to innovate, collaborate, and address challenges, Qatar Chamber is not only advancing the interests of its members but also contributing to the broader goals of Qatar’s National Vision 2030.