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Satyendra Pathak
Doha
A number of Indian, Turkish and Iranian food companies have expressed their willingness to set up manufacturing units in Qatar, IFP Qatar General Manager George Ayache said on Tuesday.
Talking to Qatar Tribune on the sidelines of Hospitality Qatar exhibition in Doha, Ayache said that Qatar has emerged as one of the prime destinations for investment in food industry as the country is striving hard to become self-reliant in meeting the requirement for food products in the local market.
"Qatar wants quality international food brands to set up their manufacturing units in the country. They are extending all support to such companies. The exhibition being organised by IFP is an ideal platform for both the parties to meet and finalise deals," he said.
A Turkish company specialising in yoghurt production is expected to open its manufacturing branch in Qatar soon, he added.
An Indian food processing and packaging materials and technology company has also entered into talks to start its operation in Qatar, he said, adding that some Iranian firms are also looking for opportunities to open shop here.
Earlier, Minister of Economy and Commerce HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohammed al Thani inaugurated the Hospitality Qatar exhibition. The minister also made a tour of the exhibition.
During the tour, the minister said the government is committed to supporting tourism sector in its bid to diversify the economy.
The minister said the exhibition would contribute to enhancing communication among businessmen, investors and owners of specialised companies to establish successful projects that will strengthen Qatar's reputation as a leading tourist destination in the region and the world.
The three-day event will see the participation of more than 153 companies from 16 countries including Turkey, Spain, India and Iran, and is expected to receive 7,000 visitors.
Large international participation in the exhibition reflects the increasing interest of global brands in Qatar's booming food industry, Ayache said, adding that surge in the number of hotels, hospitality and tourism facilities in the past few years have made the country a big market for food products.
According to a report, he said, more than $40 billion is being allocated to upgrade the already booming hospitality sector over the next 15 years.
This year, Hospitality Qatar has introduced a new section called 'Food Qatar.' The platform is particularly designed to open new investment opportunities in the sector to support the government's efforts to reduce reliance on food imports and achieve food security.
This segment will also provide a meeting point for local, regional and international food suppliers and manufacturers to communicate with buyers in Qatar's market, which is expected to grow to $1.6 billion by 2020.
"The launch of 'Food Qatar' is an important addition in strengthening the role of the exhibition as a major contributor to the growth of the food, hospitality, hotel, restaurant, franchising and retailing segments, which in turn provides a thriving business environment for regional and international food producers and suppliers," Ayache said.
