Tribune News Network
Doha
The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) hosted a significant meeting with Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani and Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs HE Dr Ahmed bin MohamedAl Sayed.
Held at QBA’s headquarters in Doha, the meeting served as a platform to enhance communication between the government and the private sector, fostering collaboration to drive Qatar’s economicdevelopment.
The meeting brought together prominent figures from Qatar’s business community, including QBA Chairman Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, QBA First Deputy Hussein Al Fardan, and board members such as Sheikh Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani, Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al Thani, Sherida Al Kaabi and SaudAl Mana.
QBA members Sheikh Mansour bin Jassim Al Thani, Khalid Al Mannai, Salah Al Jaidah, Moataz Al Khayyat, Ibrahim Al Jaidah, Ashraf Abu Issa, Abdul Salam Issa Abu Issa, Faisal Al Mannai, Abdullah Al Kubaisi, Maqbool Habib Khalfan, Rashid Al Mansouri, Mohammed Althaf, Ihsan Al Khyiami and AbdulrazzaqAl Kuwari.
Notable attendees also included representatives from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry including Mohammed Hassan Al Malki, Undersecretary, and Saleh Majid Al Khulaifi, Assistant Undersecretary for Industry and Business Development Affairs.
The discussions emphasised the importance of aligning public and private sector efforts to support the national economy. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani expressed appreciation for the ministry’s initiatives, including the Qatar National Manufacturing Strategy 2024–2030, which underscores the government’s commitment to empowering local institutions and fostering entrepreneurship.
Sheikh Faisal praised the Qatari business community’s contributions to promoting Qatar as a regional investment hub. He acknowledged the QBA’s initiatives in organizing delegations to international markets and its efforts in attracting investors through conferences and workshops. These activities, he noted, have significantly enhanced Qatar’s global competitiveness and opened new avenues for collaboration with international markets.
QBA members shared ideas and aspirations to bolster the private sector’s role in sustainable economic development. They addressed issues related to investment facilitation, financing, and legislative procedures. Sheikh Faisal reiterated that the private sector is a cornerstone of the national economy and lauded the ministry’s collaborative approach.
During the meeting, various challenges and potential solutions were discussed. Saud Al Mana highlighted the importance of facilitating access to industrial land and supporting factory operations to attract foreign investment.
Moataz Al Khayyat addressed the significant challenges faced by the construction industry, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, rising shipping costs, and increased fuel prices. The participants agreed to hold a dedicated meeting to devise strategies for this critical sector.
Other members raised concerns related to e-commerce, trade exhibitions, and the protection of local products. These discussions aimed to identify actionable steps to strengthen these sectors.
Sheikh Nawaf Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani emphasised the success of the Obstacle Resolution Committee, which has effectively resolved several private sector issues in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He proposed the establishment of a joint committee with the Prime Minister’s Office to further streamline business operations and address challenges faced by both local and foreign investors.
As the meeting concluded, QBA Chairman Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani presented honorary shields to HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani and HE Dr Ahmed bin Mohamed Al Sayed. This gesture symbolised the QBA’s gratitude for their continued efforts in fostering a robust partnership between the government and the private sector.
The meeting underscored the pivotal role of collaboration between Qatar’s government and its dynamic business community in driving the nation’s economic growth. By addressing challenges, proposing innovative solutions, and fostering dialogue, the Qatari Businessmen Association and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry are paving the way for a resilient and competitive economy.
Their shared commitment to sustainable development will undoubtedly contribute to Qatar’s vision of becoming a leading global investment destination.
