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The deputy head of mission at the British embassy in Qatar has emphasised that the embassy is keen on facilitating the expansion of Qatari investments beyond London, with a focus on employment generation and knowledge transfer, among others.“We want to continue supporting and growing Qatari investment outside of London, focusing on job creation, skill transfers, and sharing expertise,” Duncan Hill told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the launch of ‘British Food Week’, which runs until May 21 in all LuLu hypermarkets in Qatar.Hill said, “Our current focus is on emerging trends, including artificial intelligence (AI), low-carbon growth in the energy sector, advanced technology, financial technology (fintech), and insurance products. These areas are critical as the global economy faces significant challenges.”Highlighting the impact Qatari investments have on the UK labour market, Hill said: “There is significant Qatari investment in the property sector, but also in the energy sector, retail, and other industries that create employment. That’s important to us both professionally because a lot of that expertise can also return to Qatar.”Citing a recent Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) study, Hill said Qatari-owned businesses in the UK generated a total revenue impact of “£1.3tn” on the entire UK economy from 2008 to 2022, “creating thousands of jobs.”Qatar has been increasingly appealing to British professionals due to its international business environment and robust educational sector, Hill also pointed out.“I think the growth is driven by professionals wanting to come to Qatar and benefit from working in a multinational and international market environment — whether that’s in the energy sector or education. There is a strong focus on education, with many British or British-affiliated schools offering opportunities for work and learning,” Hill explained.Asked about the significant presence of Y International (UK) Ltd, LuLu Group’s logistics and packaging facility in Birmingham, Hill explained its strategic importance as a hub for LuLu, saying the area provides access to a huge number of people, businesses, and suppliers.Hill said, “Birmingham is well-known as the cradle of the first Industrial Revolution in the UK. That heritage, along with the economic strength of the city, offers LuLu Group a great platform for growth.“LuLu can reach small suppliers as well as bigger suppliers like Morrisons, which have expanded in the UK. From a logistics perspective, Birmingham makes it easy to receive and distribute goods. Products can arrive by air or come in from Europe, then be trucked efficiently and redistributed from the UK to Qatar or elsewhere in the Middle East.”

On the heels of the historic visit of US President Donald J Trump to the Gulf, a top official of retail giant LuLu Group has called on American companies to pour investments in the Gulf region, particularly Qatar, saying “the time is now.”Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the launching of ‘British Food Week’, which will run at all LuLu hypermarkets in Qatar, Dr Mohamed Althaf, Director, LuLu Group International, underlined the country’s investment potential for businesses seeking access to the Qatari market.“Now is the best time for US businesses to invest in Qatar. Despite the country’s geography, the country’s enormous potential and reach are impressive. Qatar’s investments in logistics and global trade make this an opportune moment,” Althaf pointed out, citing Qatar’s growing investments in logistics and global trade as key drivers.Althaf, who participated in the recently held ‘SelectUSA Investment Summit 2025’ in Maryland, also pointed to the strong private sector presence in both countries, saying Qatar and the US “have a very vibrant private sector with deep pockets.”He said, “Historically, businesses trust countries where governments invest. So we think there will be a lot of private sector opportunities coming up with these partnerships, both ways.”According to Althaf, private sector engagement will significantly benefit businesses in both regions: “This is going to be huge for the private sector. Wherever government investments occur, auxiliary industries and businesses thrive.”Aside from private sector participation, Althaf also highlighted Qatar’s openness to trade, citing tariffs and market access: “This region, and particularly Qatar, imposes no tariffs; Qatar is already a tariff-free country and a leader in free trade.”Amid the uncertainties facing global trade, Althaf expressed optimism and confidence in Qatar-US relations, saying, “This corridor is going to thrive. There is absolutely no doubt about it.”Looking forward, Althaf underscored the potential of a Qatar-US free trade agreement. “We already have substantial trade, but formalising a free trade agreement would reinforce what is already happening. A pan-GCC-US free trade agreement would also be beneficial,” he emphasised.Althaf further said, “Large corporations are tired of navigating bureaucratic hurdles. A free trade agreement would be a tremendous opportunity for growth. Furthermore, Qatar’s investments never come with policy conditions or restrictions. Qatar invests in sectors requiring substantial capital, making it a highly attractive investor.”Althaf also addressed Qatar’s approach to investments, noting that the country is investing in sectors that require significant capital. “Qatar is one of the best investors a country can get,” he said.

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison is spearheading the development of sovereign AI to elevate Indonesia’s economic trajectory, according to president director and CEO, Vikram Sinha.“Indosat has a larger purpose – to connect and empower every Indonesian. In Indonesia, I believe that the rise of AI presents the country with an unprecedented opportunity to uplift our GDP growth to around 8% per year. “By creating sovereign AI for Indonesia, we can cement our position as a regional technology hub, further drive economic growth and ultimately help the country achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision,” Sinha told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview. He explained that sovereign AI means “AI in Indonesia, developed by Indonesia, for use by Indonesians and Indonesian businesses.”Sinha explained that the company is helping the Southeast Asian nation in building capabilities to produce AI using domestic infrastructure, data, and talent. This also democratises AI, providing all Indonesians and businesses in the country access to what he described as a “revolutionary technology.”He said: “Right now, Indonesia is at a pivotal moment in its journey towards Golden Vision 2024. It is already the largest economy in Southeast Asia, and with a vibrant digital economy and young and dynamic population of over 270mn, AI has the potential to take growth to the next level.”Supported by global partners, such as Nvidia and Accenture, Sinha believes Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison is well-positioned to build the infrastructure necessary to foster a thriving AI ecosystem. “As one of the leading telecoms companies in Indonesia and with the strong support of our shareholders, including Ooredoo Group, we believe we are well placed to help create Indonesia’s Sovereign AI capabilities and foster a thriving AI ecosystem in the country,” he emphasised.At the same time, Sinha said Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison is laying the groundwork for Indonesia’s first full-stack sovereign AI factory, which he said is a major investment designed to give the country a competitive edge in the Southeast Asian region.“We began building the foundations of our AI factory in February 2024 when we partnered with NVIDIA to become their first cloud provider partner in Indonesia, working with our subsidiary Lintasarta. Under the partnership, we have established a sovereign AI cloud platform for Indonesia, leveraging the portfolio of high-density data centres owned by Lintasarta. “These high-quality data centres host advanced, full-stack accelerated computing platforms that use NVIDIA’s latest GPUs and can support the most computationally intensive tasks needed to support AI applications,” he said.Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison has since launched ‘GPU Merdeka’ (meaning “independent”), its sovereign AI-cloud service providing businesses with access to powerful GPUs on demand, said Sinha. “GPU Merdeka aims to democratise access to AI for all businesses in Indonesia by providing GPU-as-a-Service and a range of additional AI tools, including NVIDIA’s AI Enterprise, to support them in developing their own AI applications,” Sinha explained. Sinha noted that Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison is developing a foundational AI model and a range of industry-specific AI-powered applications, citing the company’s Sahabat-AI foundational large language model (LLM), developed in partnership with Nvidia and GoTo Group.He said Sahabat-AI is an open-source LLM trained on local Indonesian datasets and specifically designed for Bahasa Indonesia and Indonesian dialects, allowing Indonesian businesses to build AI-based services that understand the local language and are tailored for Indonesian users. “With Sahabat-AI, we aim to ensure that AI is inclusive and beneficial for all Indonesians. We have made it open source so research institutes, universities, enterprises, media and government agencies can all be part of a national effort to train this AI foundation model and foster a broad AI ecosystem in Indonesia,” he said, adding that “We see applications for AI across a wider range of sectors in Indonesia, including government services, healthcare, banking, education and agriculture to name just some.” Sinha further said Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison is also investing in AI talent development: “People and talent sit right at the heart of our ambitions to become an AI-native company and our plans to create sovereign AI capabilities in Indonesia. We are fully committed to helping to build Indonesia’s human capital so that its workforce has the skills needed to develop and use AI.”

The top official of the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) lauded US President Donald J Trump’s arrival in Doha Wednesday, citing it as “historic” and underpinning the robust ties shared by the US and Qatar.Trump was welcomed by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani upon the US president’s arrival at Hamad International Airport (HIA), marking his “first official visit to the Middle East,” which, according to QBA chairman Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, “underscores the close and strategic relationship between Doha and Washington over the past years.”Sheikh Faisal also highlighted that Qatar’s investment across different states the US, including Washington, DC, “are among the most significant factors strengthening the strong partnership with the US.”“President Trump’s economic orientation is clear—focused on expanding artificial intelligence, liberalising the market, and attracting foreign direct investment. This aligns with Qatar’s 2025–2030 vision, which aims to transition toward a knowledge-based and AI-driven economy. “Consequently, Qatar has accelerated its investments in the technology sector within the US, which will contribute to transferring and localising advanced technologies in Qatar in the coming years,” Sheikh Faisal pointed out in a statement to Gulf Times.“The US is a reliable trade partner for Qatar, with enhanced cooperation reflected in the diversification of investment portfolios across various sectors, particularly tourism, real estate, entertainment, media, sports, and retail, in both the private and public sectors, stated Sheikh Faisal, adding that “President Trump’s visit represents a major opportunity to deepen cooperation between businessmen in both countries.”

The Republic of Korea (ROK) has ensured its goal to facilitate the broader adoption of Korean smart farming technologies throughout the Middle East, with a particular emphasis on Qatar, a Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) official has said.Director general KIM Jung Wook of the MAFRA’s Agri-food Innovation Policy Bureau made the statement after MAFRA and Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality held the second meeting of the ‘ROK-Qatar Smart Farm Cooperation Committee’ at the Rural Development Administration (RDA) in South Korea on Tuesday.The ‘ROK-Qatar Smart Farm Cooperation Committee’ is a “director general-level” working committee, operated based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on smart farm cooperation amended and signed between the two countries in October 2023, a statement from MAFRA explained.According to MAFRA, South Korea and Qatar have been expanding cooperation in the field of smart farming since the committee’s first meeting in Doha in February 2024.“For instance, Qatar’s economic working group visited Korean smart-farm exporting companies to see smart farming technologies in 2024. Both sides also carried out the verification and validation of Korean machinery and equipment to see whether they can fulfil their intended purpose under Qatar’s desert climate,” the statement further explained.During the second committee meeting, KIM discussed the following topics with the Qatar side of the committee, led by Dr Masoud Jarallah al-Marri, the director of the Food Security Department at the Ministry of Municipality: Qatar’s agricultural policies, including the National Food Security Strategy 2030; ways for investment cooperation to build a Korean model of smart farm innovation industrial complex in Qatar; and a plan to extend the period of verification and validation of Korean agricultural machinery and equipment to see whether they can withstand Qatar’s severely hot weather.According to MAFRA, it “has been sparing no effort to expand a path for K-smart farms to enter overseas markets. To this end, the MAFRA has been building the Demo Smart Farm in the Middle East, and this year, it started the construction of the Demo Smart Farm in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.“In addition, the MAFRA designated trade offices dedicated to supporting smart farm export in three regions—the Middle East, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and Oceania—and has been providing full support for consortiums of smart-farm companies to continue to win construction orders of smart farms from overseas buyers.”KIM added: “Recently, the trade and cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the State of Qatar are gaining more momentum. We will continue to make efforts to ensure that Korean smart farm technologies can be more widely adopted in the Middle East, including Qatar. We strongly hope that cooperation between the two countries in terms of smart farming will advance to the next level.”

Qatar Chamber signed Monday five memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, the Hong Kong Investment Authority, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, and the Hong Kong Banking Association.The Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) at Qatar Chamber also signed an MoU with the Hong Kong Bar Association. The MoUs were signed here during a visit by a high-level delegation led by John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).The signing ceremony was held in the presence of HE the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari, Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani, several board members of the chamber, and a group of prominent Qatari businessmen.Lee said the MoUs will enhance cooperation in key sectors like trade, economy, investment promotion, tourism, technology, and infrastructure. He added that the MoUs will open avenues to establish more commercial partnerships.Al-Kuwari emphasised the deep relations between Qatar and Hong Kong, particularly in trade and investments, noting that there are venues of cooperation between business sectors of both countries to strengthen trade and capitalise on the existing relations in various sectors like tourism and aviation.The minister emphasised that Hong Kong serves as a gateway to Asia, while Qatar to the Middle East regions. He highlighted that business forums and the MoUs would contribute to developing commercial relations between both countries.Meanwhile, Sheikh Khalifa lauded the strong and steadily growing relationship between Qatar and Hong Kong, “which is built on mutual trust, shared economic goals, and a joint commitment to creating new opportunities.”He emphasised both sides’ interest in deepening cooperation across various sectors, with a particular focus on the private sector, especially in trade, investment, finance, and smart industries.Sheikh Khalifa commended Hong Kong’s achievements over the decades, highlighting its position as one of the world’s leading economic and financial centres, its long-standing history of innovation and smart services, and its role as a pivotal trade gateway with an open and dynamic economic environment. He said this aligns with Qatar’s future vision of building a diversified and sustainable economy founded on advanced knowledge and technology.Daniel Lam, chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), emphasised the growing trade and investment cooperation between Hong Kong and Qatar.He noted the ‘Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ & ‘Super Value-Adder’ luncheon held Monday in Doha will deepen trade and investment relations with Hong Kong’s key partners.

Hong Kong and Qatar have made significant progress in concluding the negotiations for an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA), it was announced Monday at a luncheon in Doha under the theme ‘Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ & ‘Super Value-Adder’.“Hong Kong and Qatar have substantially concluded the negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement,” said John Lee, the chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), in a speech at the event.He also said, “We will also commence negotiations on the mutual recognition of our respective Authorised Economic Operator Programmes. In addition, Hong Kong and Qatar have made considerable progress in reaching understanding on the substantive contents on an MoU for legal co-operation. Together, they will boost our trade ties and enhance our customs clearance efficiency, creating smoother, more convenient, links for our companies.“With our investment agreement negotiations underway, Hong Kong’s network of investment agreements and Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation agreements will potentially cover most of the GCC countries. More than expanding our trade ties, I believe, it could advance our continuing discussions with the GCC on the prospects of a free trade agreement. Hong Kong champions free trade, and looks very much forward to the support of Qatar.Lee also announced that “China is Qatar’s largest trade partner,” citing both countries’ bilateral trade surpassing the $24bn mark last year. “More than trade in energy, the two countries are also co-operating in infrastructure, finance and technology... our Mainland delegates are keen to build on these good relations, to pursue more collaborations, in greater diversity, with you,” he pointed out.Similar to China, Lee emphasised that Hong Kong is keen on furthering co-operation with Qatar. He said Hong Kong’s merchandise trade with Qatar stood at “$1.6bn” in 2024, increasing “2.6%” on average from 2020 to 2024, making Qatar Hong Kong’s third-largest trading partner in the Middle East.He also said: “As for co-operation with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which counts six countries in the region, including Qatar, Hong Kong companies are engaged in key projects covering such areas as green transportation, no-electricity cooling technology, marine reef restoration and other areas.”

The inaugural ‘Qatar Trade and Treasury Transformation Summit’ held Wednesday in Doha reflects the country’s commitment to investing in a knowledge-based economy, which aligns seamlessly with the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.“This commitment...is being pursued through a strategic plan rooted in innovation, efficiency, and flexibility, placing Qatar at the forefront among leading nations in this field,” Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani further said in his speech during the event’s opening ceremony.Held in the presence of Mohammed bin Hassan al-Malki, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the summit discussed modern trends and views in trade and the treasury sector.It also tackled digital transformation in banking operations and its role in enhancing corporate treasury capabilities through innovative and intelligent cash and payment solutions, as well as ways to foster innovation and accelerate digital development in Qatar.Sheikh Khalifa, who is also chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Qatar, expressed his confidence that the summit would serve as a platform for open dialogue and direct discussions on the future of trade and finance that go beyond theory, leading to implementation for the benefit of institutions and communities alike.He also affirmed the Qatar Chamber’s and ICC Qatar’s conviction that the private sector is the best qualified to set global business standards that foster innovation and drive development in the financial and commercial sectors.Sheikh Khalifa noted that the summit’s working sessions address key areas, such as the digitisation of trade finance, treasury transformation, cross-border payments, and the key role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing the capabilities of treasury professionals in both large and small companies, along with other factors that foster a culture of financial planning and sound institutional investment.Speaking at the event, al-Malki emphasised that the summit serves as a strategic platform for exchanging expertise and discussing the future of business and digital transformation in the finance sector and smart commerce. He noted that the event also provides an opportunity to explore the best practices and adopt innovative solutions that contribute to building a sustainable future.According to al-Malki, Qatar places great importance on building a flexible and integrated commercial, industrial, and financial system based on the highest standards of innovation, supported by advanced digital infrastructure and balanced, stable economic policies, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.Over the past years, al-Malki explained that Qatar has actively invested in developing its technological infrastructure to embrace emerging technologies, keep pace with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and attract more investment in this field.“Technological transformation and innovation lie at the heart of the country’s national strategies, serving as key pillars in the restructuring of the national economy and the transition toward a digital, efficient, and sustainable future,” al-Malki emphasised.He stressed that the pivotal role of the private sector in supporting the economic, industrial, and commercial system is by focusing on innovation and keeping pace with the technological revolution.Al-Malki added: “We look forward to the constructive discussions during this summit, which we believe will foster fruitful partnerships and drive sustainable transformation in trade and treasury, ultimately enhancing our global competitiveness and advancing our sustainable development goals.”

Combining digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and banking systems is essential for establishing a strong foundation for significant investments and global partnerships, according to Qatar Chamber board member Mohamed bin Ahmed al-Obaidli.He was speaking during the first of seven panel discussions held on the sidelines of the inaugural ‘Qatar Trade and Treasury Transformation Summit’ held yesterday in Doha under the patronage of HE the Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal al-Thani.Under the theme ‘Qatar’s Growing Firepower as a Trading Nation’, al-Obaidli was joined by fellow panellists Mubarak al-Sulaiti, founder and chairman of Al Sulaiti Law Firm; Ashraf Abuissa, chairman, AbuIssa Holding; and Fahad Badar, executive general manager and Chief Wholesale and International Banking officer at Commercial Bank Qatar.During the discussion, al-Obaidli emphasised that integrating digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and financial and banking systems plays a vital role in laying a solid foundation for bold investments and global partnerships. He also highlighted the importance of regional co-operation in enhancing Qatar’s trade competitiveness.He stressed that Qatar has solidified its position as a leading global trade hub and boosted its economic impact as a key partner in international trade and investment, highlighting that this was achieved through various mechanisms, including legislative and regulatory reforms, energy diversification and sustainability, and the development of advanced infrastructure and logistics.Abuissa emphasised the importance of fostering economic and trade co-operation with countries in the region, particularly the GCC. He also highlighted the need to explore new global markets considering current economic challenges and to capitalise on the significant progress Qatar has achieved in sectors such as communications, media, tourism, industry, and others.Al-Sulaiti discussed the legal and legislative environment for business in Qatar, emphasising that laws and regulations are integral to trade and economic activity. He highlighted the importance of organising the Qatar Trade and Treasury Transformation Summit as a platform to present ideas and visions in light of global economic developments.In turn, Badar highlighted Commercial Bank Qatar’s efforts in the fintech sector, particularly its commitment to developing and implementing innovative financial solutions in alignment with the Qatar Fintech Strategy 2023 launched by the Qatar Central Bank.The second session titled ‘Tackling Money Laundering, Sanctions, and Fraud’ featured Sheikh Dr Thani al-Thani, board of director of International Relations at the Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA); Claudia al-Hage, managing partner at Rashed R Al Marri Law Office; and Dhritimaan Shukla, partner at Ernst & Young.Sheikh Dr Thani reviewed the key legal mechanisms regulating anti-money laundering efforts in Qatar, specifically referring to Law No 20 of 2019. He also outlined the restrictions and obligations placed on professionals, including lawyers, in the country’s fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.The following experts tackled ‘The Future of Trade Finance: Reaping the Rewards of Digital Transformation’ during the third panel discussion: Alaa al-Rousan, head of Mena at SWIFT; Hussam al-Kokhon, head of Trade Finance at CQUR Bank; Venkata Surya Prasad Indraganti, head of Transaction Banking at Commercial Bank Qatar; Clyde Rosanowski, senior vice-president of Corporate Solutions and head of EEMEA at Mastercard; and Bojan Čekrlić, CEO of CargoX.The fourth session titled ‘Treasury Transformation – Moving from Theory to Reality’ featured Derek Kwok, Chief Treasury and International Banking officer at Ahli Bank; Tahir Pirzada, general manager/group treasurer and Financial Institutions, Al Rayan Bank; Dr Fawad Ishaq, Chief Treasury and Investments officer, Doha Bank; Dr Ghada M Darwish Karbon, founder and managing partner, Dr Ghada M Darwish Karbon Law Firm; and Dr Alanoud al-Maadid, head of the Economics and Finance Department at Qatar University.Meanwhile, Dr Bothaina al-Ansari, chairwoman/adviser, Just Real Estate; Mashael Mohammed al-Sulaiti, founder and chairwoman of Mashael Al Sulaiti Law Firm; Maha al-Saadi, head of Regulatory Affairs at the Qatar Financial Centre; and Fatenah al-Danab, head of Trade and Working Capital at Barclays Bank, participated in the fifth session titled ‘Empowering Women - Trade and Treasury in the Mena Region’.The sixth session, ‘Optimising Islamic Factoring Operations: Modern Workflow Solutions’, and the seventh session, ‘Cross-Border Payments: From Instant Payments and Blockchain Payments to Embedded FX’, explored advancements in financial technologies and infrastructure that are transforming payment systems and trade finance in the region.

Qatar has made significant strides in developing and implementing cleantech initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and optimising resource use, Invest Qatar has stated in a recent report.The report, ‘Digital Innovation for a Sustainable Future’, was a joint initiative between Invest Qatar and Doha-based Spanish firm, Iberdrola Innovation Middle East, aimed at highlighting the transformative role of digital technologies in advancing energy efficiency, sustainability, and economic diversification.“Digital technologies like AI, IoT, and smart grids are enhancing energy efficiency and driving the transformation of energy systems around the world. These technologies optimise energy consumption in real-time and improve the overall efficiency and resilience of energy systems.“The proliferation of digital technologies, including data centres and cloud computing, is driving up energy demand. However, innovations in IT hardware and cooling, as well as a shift towards more efficient cloud and hyperscale data centres, are helping to limit this growth,” the report explained.Backed by years of technological developments and focus on innovation, Qatar is not only addressing its energy demands but also improving the overall efficiency of end-use applications by harnessing emerging technologies, including smart grid systems, renewable energy sources, and innovative waste management solutions.“Qatar has advanced cleantech initiatives in the following areas – energy and power generation, construction and urban development, transportation and mobility, and water and waste management – leveraging emerging technologies to improve demand and end-use efficiency,” stated the report.Under the framework of the Qatar National Renewable Energy Strategy (QNRES), the country “aims to increase renewable energy’s share in the power mix from its current 5% to 18% by 2030, with a primary focus on solar PV Technology.”“Qatar’s LNG CCS project is the largest in the Middle East and sixth globally, and it aims to increase the capacity to capture more than 11Mtpa of CO2 by 2035. Qatar is building the largest blue ammonia plant in the world ($1bn investment, with 1.2m tonnes per year output),” the report further noted.Construction and urban development come to the fore as Qatar is ramping up investments in smart city technologies, stated the report, citing the Lusail City project, “which integrates digital infrastructure to enhance urban living.”The report pointed out: “Msheireb is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project leveraging smart technologies with a 32% energy reduction goal and all buildings targeting LEED Gold certification. Qatar’s National Environment and Climate Change Strategy aims to use 35% of recycled materials in construction projects.”On transportation and mobility, the report stated: “Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) aims to build advanced transport infrastructure – increasing utilisation, efficiency and sustainable options like e-mobility and public transport.“The Ministry of Transport (MoT) Transportation Master Plan for Qatar-2050 aims to implement long-term initiatives contributing to sustainable transportation. Qatar is among the top 10 global markets in electric vehicle readiness.”It added: “The Qatar Mobility Innovations Centre (QMIC) is the first independent innovations centre in the region focusing on R&D to develop and deploy Intelligent Mobility and Smart Cities platforms and technologies.”The Ministry of Municipality’s 2024-2030 strategy, which includes plans to adopt the latest smart waste management systems and convert waste into energy, caters to the country’s advancements in cleantech initiatives.“Qatar’s National Environment and Climate Change Strategy aims to achieve a 15% material recycling and +55% desalination of water from RO (Reverse Osmosis) or more sustainable technology.“The first GCC country to implement a waste-to-energy programme, Qatar’s Domestic Solid Waste Management Centre (DSWMC) has a state-of-the-art facility with a 1,500 tonnes per day Waste-to-Energy (WTE) incineration plant,” stated the report.On environmental monitoring and efficiency, the report stated: “Qatar’s NDS3 aims to expand advanced monitoring technologies, for instance, effective monitoring and the enforcement of consistent water quality standards across sources.“Qatar aims to install over 20 air quality monitoring stations equipped with internationally approved technology. The country also aims to regularly and effectively monitor all water sources, such as groundwater, seawater and potable water.”

The Chamber of Commerce of Spain in Qatar has officially kick-started its recent 15th anniversary celebration with a ‘Business Breakfast’, which focused on innovation and the future of collaboration between Spain and Qatar.During the event, David Quintanilla Alvarez, the chairman of the chamber, underscored how Spanish companies operating in Qatar have proven their resilience, saying, “But lasting leadership demands anticipating change, transforming models, and empowering talent.”He said: “Today, we celebrate 15 years of business success and embrace innovation as the key to our future... with creativity and strength, Spain is ready to lead through innovation and shape a competitive, global future.”The event brought together key companies operating in Qatar, including Acciona, Aguas de Valencia, Bravent, Essa Al Sulaiti Law Firm, Iberdrola, and Técnicas Reunidas, which presented their latest innovations and strategic projects in the region.The session concluded with a roundtable discussion on ‘The Importance of Innovation in Business’, where the panellists explored how innovation drives competitiveness, resilience, and sustainable growth in international markets like Qatar.The ‘Business Breakfast’ marks the first of several activities commemorating the chamber’s 15-year journey in supporting Spanish companies and strengthening business ties between Spain and Qatar.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the 15th anniversary celebration, Alvarez further explained the objectives of the chamber’s ‘Business Breakfast’: “The session on innovation gathered some of our largest companies where they presented their innovations across various sectors, including water, energy, and Information Technology.“This initiative has been ongoing for a long time; companies need to innovate to stand out from their competitors. If you fail to innovate, you risk falling behind in today’s competitive landscape.”He said the chamber regularly holds networking events every month, typically gathering around 150-200 people. Alvarez noted that the event is particularly beneficial for new Spanish companies in Qatar, as it allows them to connect with others who have been in the country longer and expand their networks.“In addition to our monthly gatherings, we conduct workshops on a variety of topics. Our goal is to provide our members with valuable information, especially regarding any new laws or regulations in Qatar.“We strive to keep them updated on these matters. We also host webinars focused on taxation information for our members. Starting last year, we have been offering Spanish and Arabic classes at the Chamber of Commerce,” Alvarez added.

A top official of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has lauded the role of Qatar in fostering dialogue and its leadership in facilitating in regional and international conflict resolution.Speaking at the seventh edition of the Global Security Forum (GSF 2025) being held in Doha until April 30, ICRC director general Pierre Krähenbühl praised the Gulf state’s key role in mediation efforts, highlighting Qatar’s collaboration with the ICRC in addressing major humanitarian issues.“The leadership shown by the State of Qatar when it comes to mediation and the search for dialogue deserves the highest recognition,” said Krähenbühl, who acknowledged Qatar’s role in securing the release of hostages by Hamas in Gaza and prisoners detained by Israel.Krähenbühl said, “The combination of political action, mediation by a state, and the ICRC’s neutral intermediary role, which gives us access and trust with parties needed to solve delicate challenges, represents a strong added value. We appreciate the cooperation with Qatar in this respect.”He also lamented the “growing polarisation” worldwide that is leading to “a proliferation of conflicts and conflict risks,” citing “a resurgence of conflicts between states and a large number of conflicts involving non-state armed groups.”“It also involves the increasing use of new technologies, artificial intelligence, and cyber on the battlefield. Today, wars are long-lasting, causing endless loss of life and the destruction of the institutional backbone of entire societies. The more devastation we allow, the longer and more arduous the path to dialogue and reconciliation will be,” Krähenbühl continued.Further, the ICRC official emphasised the importance of respecting international humanitarian law: “We are also confronted with permissive interpretations of international humanitarian law, the rules that bind all parties to a conflict and should protect civilians, prisoners and the sick and wounded on the battlefield.”He continued, “We witness daily the catastrophic human consequences of these wars in which even humanitarian organisations and staff are more and more frequently attacked, whether physically through harmful information campaigns or the criminalisation of humanitarian action...the rules are often violated, yet when applied, they save lives, and their respect makes the path to dialogue and reconciliation easier.”On the suffering of civilians in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza, Krähenbühl described this as “the very incarnation of hell.” Aside from the suffering, displacement, injury, and loss of women and children, he said the ongoing war has taken a heavy toll on humanitarian and healthcare workers: “Over 400 aid workers and 1,000 healthcare workers have been killed in Gaza, including 36 from the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement.”Emphasising the need to respect the rules of international humanitarian law, Krähenbühl said the ICRC launched a global initiative to galvanise political support for international humanitarian law in September 2024. The initiative, he continued, generated “great interest” among states and other actors.He said, “Indeed, every process that leads to resolving conflicts starts with small humanitarian steps. The ICRC does not have a political role, nor do we have a position on the political dimensions of the conflicts we work in. But we do have the experience, and we experience every day the horrors and human consequences of war, and their security implications for countries far and wide.“Therefore, it is not enough, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, to say after every major conflict, and I quote, never again, unquote. We must act together decisively to rediscover the humanity in the other.”Ends

A senior expert at the Centre for International Policy Research (CIPR) has underscored the importance of building strong and stable states in the fight against terrorism during a panel discussion held on the sidelines of the Global Security Forum (GSF 2025) in Doha Monday.Fragmented states provide fertile ground for radical ideologies to flourish, according to Dr Khalid Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi during the discussion titled ‘Conflict Resolution and Mediation in an Age of Non-State Actors and Fragmented Power’.He was joined by the US former ambassador Ryan Crocker, Distinguished Chair in Diplomacy and Security, RAND Corporation; Fawzia Koofi, Afghanistan’s former Deputy Speaker of Parliament; and Pekka Haavisto, Finland’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs. The discussion was moderated by Steve Clemons, host of ‘The Bottom Line’ at Al-Jazeera.Al-Khulaifi said, “I think the only way that you can counter terrorism is to build a strong state. The issue is that the idea of a fragmented state has been spreading around, so to help and foster states, such as what's going on in Syria at the moment.“If you keep imposing sanctions on Syria, how could you help Syria rebuild? If you’re not there to assist Syria...then you’re allowing the spread of radical ideologies...I think the essence of building a strong fundamental state is the responsibility of, sometimes, even the international community to assess and help that state to build, for it to counter such radical groups, which results in terrorism.”Al-Khulaifi also highlighted Qatar’s unique role as a mediator in global conflicts. “In a fragmented conflict, the party that can speak to everyone holds the real power, and Qatar has made this very clear in its path of being a mediator,” he emphasised, citing the Gulf state’s mediation efforts in regions like Chad and Ukraine as examples of Qatar’s ability to foster dialogue among conflicting parties.He also outlined four key characteristics that define Qatar’s successful mediation strategies: neutrality, access, legitimacy, and quiet diplomacy. He explained that it can be challenging for certain countries or individuals acting as mediators to effectively fulfill the role of a mediator.Al-Khulaifi further pointed out that it is critical to be “physically and diplomatically embedded within the key conflict zones,” as well as “to be trusted by the international community to play the role of the mediator.”He said, “I believe that, to some extent, this applies to the scenario, but a more discreet diplomacy approach is necessary. Discretion needs to be an important pillar, and I think Qatar applies it very well.”

International dignitaries and experts have underscored the significant role of non-state actors, as well as innovative approaches in conflict resolution, shedding light on the evolving nature of diplomacy in addressing modern conflicts.The high-level panel titled ‘Conflict Resolution and Mediation in an Age of Non-State Actors and Fragmented Power’ was held on the sidelines of the Global Security Forum (GSF 2025). The National Interest Editor at Large, Steve Clemons, moderated the discussion, which tackled several challenges that traditional multilateral institutions face.Former US ambassador to six countries, Ryan Crocker, emphasised the waning influence of traditional US-led international institutions, saying, “The post-war US-designed and led order that has persisted for 80 years is no longer what it was a year ago.”Crocker said, “The US is clearly withdrawing from the global arena, both politically and financially, with great consequences for organisations like the UN and the International Committee for the Red Cross, where the US has long been the predominant funder, and I think with huge implications for global stability.”Pekka Haavisto, Finland’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the increasing difficulties in multilateral diplomacy, pointing to the UN as an example of an institution that is struggling to address global crises.“When speaking about state and non-state actors, I want to recognise the important role of Qatar as a state actor in making peace in Gaza and trying to release the hostages and so forth, so state actors have not entirely disappeared. But I think we are coming to a world where our multilateral system is not working.“But we are in a world where initiatives and the NGO and the private sector’s role can be very crucial in building the peace and having, maybe, the first contacts also with different actors in the world theatre,” Haavisto explained.Reflecting on her experiences during negotiations with the Taliban, Fawzia Koofi, former Deputy Speaker of Parliament in Afghanistan, emphasised the importance of non-state actors in conflict mediation.“The role of non-state actors, civil society, influencers, social media, media, [and] political groups...are crucially important,” said Koofi, who also praised Qatar’s ability to bring inclusivity to negotiations, explaining that “the soft power of small states like Qatar and how important [a] role they played in creating that process” serves as an example for others.Dr Khalid al-Khulaifi, senior expert at the Doha-based Centre for International Policy Research (CIPR), emphasised that adaptability is key to modern mediation efforts. “The fragility of the conflict is no longer the traditional understanding of what a conflict is,” pointed out al-Khulaifi, highlighting Qatar’s approach to inclusivity and explaining that effective mediation requires “finding the right path to tackle it, [and] understand each perspective.”

On the back of its $1bn fund-of-funds programme launched last year by the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), Qatar aims to catalyse investments in startups and foster a vibrant ecosystem for innovation. This was emphasised during a recent panel discussion hosted by Startup Grind Qatar titled ‘Qatar’s VC Impact’. The event featured five key venture capital leaders who shared their insights and strategies for driving growth and addressing challenges within Qatar and the wider region.Dr Mussaad al-Razouki, operating partner at Deerfield Management, underlined Qatar’s potential in becoming a global leader in healthcare innovation. He explained that healthcare models tested in foreign markets like the US and Europe can be tailored to Qatar’s robust education and healthcare systems.“Whether it’s investing in therapeutics, healthcare service companies, or medical technology companies, what works in New York can work here,” he said. Al-Razouki also lauded Qatar’s genome programme as a critical asset for advancing biotechnology: “The Qatar genome programme is a vastly understudied population and positions the country as a hub for therapeutic innovation.”Soumaya Ben Beya Dridje, partner at Rasmal Ventures, spoke about the importance of taking the lead in investment rounds to provide structure and added value for startups. She emphasised Qatar’s strong regional corporates as a unique advantage for startups to scale quickly across the GCC.She said Rasmal has signed several MoUs with key institutions here and other players in the ecosystem to bring in tech that is needed in the country. She also expressed her hope to back standout companies from Qatar, highlighting the collaborative nature of venture capital in the region.Alina Truhina, founding & managing partner of A-typical Ventures, shared her vision for supporting early-stage entrepreneurs beyond funding. She discussed the Adventure Studio initiative, which offers mentorship and operational expertise to help founders build scalable businesses.“Startups are the best agents of development and change. It’s about solving basic needs and challenges, whether in healthcare, fintech, agriculture, or climate change,” explained Truhina, who also emphasised collaboration with institutions like Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) to create an integrated ecosystem in Qatar. Rishabh Aggarwal, principal at B Capital, highlighted key sectors like wealth-tech, cross-border payments, and consumer tech as promising areas for growth in Qatar. He pointed out Qatar’s unique economic structure, which allows startups to achieve high margins and better cost-efficiency.“We are seeing very interesting profits and phenomenal results from businesses here,” said Aggarwal, who also underscored the importance of attracting global tech talent and founders to Doha to drive innovation and cross-learning.Pradeep Desu, operating partner at Human Capital, emphasised his firm’s commitment to creating generational companies that not only generate financial returns but also address critical economic challenges. “Success will be measured by how many of these generational companies emerge from Qatar,” he said. Desu envisions Doha becoming a self-sustaining innovation hub that attracts global startups for its strategic location and supportive ecosystem: “I would like to see headlines celebrating Doha as a startup destination where ambitious founders build world-changing companies.”

The rise of e-commerce and participation in international trade expos have emerged as key platforms for promoting a wide range of Filipino export products, an official of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines has said.According to lawyer Maria Katrina D Rivera, assistant director at the DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), Filipino entrepreneurs are leveraging technology and global networking events to meet the growing demand for food products and personal care items in markets like the Middle East.In an EMB report, Rivera stated that e-commerce has gained significant momentum across the globe, citing the Middle East, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).“In 2023, the distribution of OFWs across countries worldwide indicated Asia (77.4%), North and South America (9.8%), Europe (8.4%), Australia (3.0%), and Africa (1.3%) were the leading five destinations for OFWs,” stated the report.The Middle East remains the top destination for OFWs, the report also stated, adding that “among Asian countries, Saudi Arabia was the leading destination, accounting for 20% of the total OFWs in 2023.”The EMB report also emphasised the growing reliance on social media marketing and partnerships with influencers, as well as regional bloggers to connect with audiences. It further reported that subscription-based food deliveries and online shopping platforms are also becoming key channels for consumers in the Middle East.“Although the e-commerce share of beauty and personal care retail sales remains relatively small in most countries, it is generally continuing to grow. While grocery retailers and health and beauty specialists still tend to dominate distribution, with small local grocers and department stores still playing a role in some countries, a gradual shift to omnichannel operations is being seen in the region,” the report explained.The shift to e-commerce aligns with broader market trends, including the demand for sugar-reduced and plant-based food products, as well as clean beauty offerings, which reflect the region’s heightened focus on health and sustainability, the report stated, adding that “[there has been a] steady rise in health consciousness, a growing concern for the planet, and consumers [are] placing strong emphasis on supporting local businesses.”According to Rivera, the participation of Filipino entrepreneurs in international trade expos, such as the ‘Gulfood Innovation Awards’ in Dubai has also been instrumental in showcasing the competitive edge of Philippine exports.Rivera said Filipino companies have also received recognition for their unique and high-quality products, citing Lionheart Farms’ ‘Carbonated Coconut Flower Sap Drink Calamansi’ and Fisher Farms’ ‘Deboned Milkfish in Chili Spiced Coconut Cream’.

Ebn Sina Medical has signed a strategic partnership with BeiGene making it the local partner and distributor for the latter’s range of oncology medicines, enhancing the availability of innovative oncology treatments in Qatar.Ebn Sina Medical general manager Dr Essam Faragalla and BeiGene Mena region general manager Mohammed al-Kapany signed the agreement in the presence of Aamal CEO Rashid bin Ali al-Mansoori, BeiGene New Markets, head of Go-To Market Strategy & Commercial Operation Markus Dannenberger, and other dignitaries.Ebn Sina Medical is a subsidiary of Aamal Company and a leading supplier of pharmaceutical, hospital, and healthcare products in Qatar, while BeiGene is a known global oncology company.The collaboration reflects Ebn Sina Medical’s commitment to delivering high-quality medicinal products to the local market, benefiting healthcare providers and patients alike.In a speech, al-Mansoori emphasised that the medical sector in Qatar has witnessed remarkable progress over the past two decades with the establishment of prestigious healthcare facilities that deliver services at world-class standards.According to al-Mansoori, the partnership marks a significant addition to the range of treatment options available to cancer patients, representing “a paradigm shift”, which further elevates the position of Qatar’s medical sector by introducing innovative therapies and fostering collaboration with leading global healthcare companies.Al-Mansoori said: “This collaboration strengthens Qatar’s medical sector by improving patient access to the latest oncology treatments. Ebn Sina Medical’s strong market position makes it a trusted partner for renowned global pharmaceutical companies like BeiGene. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on healthcare in Qatar.”For his part, Faragalla stressed that Ebn Sina Medical’s partnership with BeiGene marks “an important step” in expanding access to advanced oncology treatments in Qatar.Faragalla also pointed out that the partnership is fully aligned with Ebn Sina Medical’s vision to be an active contributor to the development of Qatar’s healthcare ecosystem by fostering innovation and increasing access to modern therapeutic solutions.He said: “Our goal is to support healthcare professionals with the tools they need to improve patient care. Through strategic collaborations like this, we continue to strengthen the healthcare system and enhance treatment options for patients facing complex health challenges.”Faragalla also noted that the strategic alliance aligns with Ebn Sina Medical’s mission to enhance patient care by providing access to world-class medicinal products and supporting the evolving needs of Qatar’s healthcare sector.Al-Kapany expressed BeiGene’s commitment to expanding access to innovative and affordable cancer treatments for more patients around the world.He said: “This partnership with Ebn Sina Medical reflects our shared goal of improving outcomes for people living with cancer in Qatar.“Together, we’re working to ensure that patients and healthcare providers have access to the high-quality therapies they need — where and when they need them.”

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines is seeking to expand the country’s trade footprint in the Middle East by capitalising on $204.01mn worth of untapped export potential for food and personal care products.In a report shared with Gulf Times, lawyer Maria Katrina D Rivera, assistant director at the DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), highlighted that the promising opportunity to expand Philippine exports underscores significant growth prospects for Filipino exporters in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries.The EMB report revealed that the DTI identified $201.31mn worth of unrealised export potential for food products and $2.70mn worth of untapped export potential in personal care products.Leading the food category are fresh or dried bananas, valued at $44.74mn, followed by coconut oil (excluding crude) at $24.74mn and desiccated coconuts at $24.63mn. Other products, such as prepared or preserved tunas, raw cane sugar, and various pineapple-based goods, also hold substantial potential, the report stated.On personal care products opportunity, notable items include perfumes and toilet waters, valued at $1.39mn, soap and organic surface-active products for toilet use ($369,000), and eye make-up ($187,000). This segment, the EMB further reported, highlights the growing demand for high-quality beauty and personal care goods in the region.In 2023, the Philippines exported the following top agri-food products to Qatar worth $30.82mn: fresh or dried bananas, valued at $7.91mn with a 25.6% share; preparations for sauces and mixed condiments ($3.57mn with 11.6% share; bread, pastry, cakes, and biscuits ($3.29mn, 10.7%; uncooked pasta ($2.15mn, 7.0%); sweet biscuits ($1.33mn, 4.3%); soya sauce ($1.19mn, 3.9%); sausages and similar products ($781,000, 2.5%); prepared or preserved sardines ($705,000, 2.3%); prepared or preserved tunas ($633,000, 2.1%); and fresh or dried pineapples ($575,000, 1.9%). The remaining $8.69mn (28.2%) account for other food products exported to Qatar, the EMB reported.In the same year, the top Philippine personal care exports to Qatar worth $2.06mn comprised the following: soap and organic surface-active products worth $546,000 and 26.5% – the largest share, showcasing the demand for hygiene and skincare essentials; preparations for use on the hair (other) worth $541,000 and a 26.3% share; beauty or make-up preparations, such as skincare and sunscreen ($373,000, 18.1%); perfumes and toilet waters ($270,000, 13.1%; and shampoos ($203,000, 9.9%. The remaining $125,000 (6.1%) consist of other personal care products. This data, the report reflected, underscores the diversity of Philippine offerings and the growing demand for beauty and hygiene products in Qatar.The report also presented strategic initiatives to capitalise on these opportunities, such as participation in key trade expos like the ‘Gulfood Innovation Awards’ in Dubai, strengthening ties with GCC member states to boost market presence, and promoting the Philippines’ diverse range of tropical and innovative products, including halal-certified and clean beauty offerings.The Middle East stands as a key destination for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), with countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar hosting significant Filipino communities, the report stated, adding that this provides a robust platform for expanding trade and catering to both regional consumers and OFWs.