The increasing demand for building materials, decorations and fixtures in Qatar has prompted Dragon Mart to contemplate opening a 13,000sqm showroom in future, logistics manager Yang Qi told Gulf Times.

Currently, he noted that they use around 1,500sqm of dedicated space for this section at the 21,000 sqm mall located at the Barwa Commercial Avenue.

“Many companies now are looking for high-quality materials at reasonable prices for their various building projects across the country,” he explained.

Qi admitted that they also feel the impact of the oil price slowdown with some tenants leaving the mall.

However, the situation seemed to be shifting to their favour as Dragon Mart’s occupancy has reached 95% and sales continue to improve.

Around 140 shops occupy the Mezzanine floor while some 170 are located on the ground floor of the mall.

Qi sees a huge potential in the Qatar market especially with projects for the 2022 FIFA World Cup are in full swing.

He believes this gives them the opportunity to showcase their products as many Chinese companies are also capable of producing quality products.

“We are expecting more Chinese businessmen and traders to come to Qatar in the coming months,” Qi added. “They can supply the needed materials in terms of quality and quantity and on time.”

Many of these businessmen already have shops in Dubai where a 150,000sqm Dragon Mart also operates and plan to open new shops in Qatar, Qi said.

“Some investors may come directly from China but it is easier for those in Dubai to come to Qatar,” he pointed out.

They sell different kinds of products such as clothing for adults and children, sports equipment, decoration materials, electronic devices and accessories, and kitchen wares, among others.

“Qataris prefer high-quality products and we are ready to bring these things to Qatar,” Qi noted.

Qi also hopes to have a warehouse that will be used to keep various kinds of items particularly building materials, decorations and fixtures.

Dragon Mart is planning to open its 1,000-capacity underground parking this year once all shops are operating, adding to the existing 400.

To celebrate Qatar-Chine Year of Culture 2016 and to entice more customers to visit the mall, Qi also said they will be organising a number of authentic Chinese cultural shows and activities in the coming months.

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