Spain’s culinary presence in Qatar is rapidly expanding, driven by a sophisticated mechanism for food promotion, according to LuLu Group International director Dr Mohamed Althaf.Speaking to the media at the recent opening of 'Festival of Spain 2025', he highlighted the growth of Spanish products available at LuLu outlets in Qatar, marking a shift from seasonal imports, and becoming a mainstream supplier such as the US, India, and the Philippines, among other countries.The latest addition to the retail giant’s Spanish portfolio includes premium items such as 100% Halal-certified Spanish lamb and Spanish mangoes.“This year I believe the highlight is mostly, other than regular things, there are a lot of things that we bring from Spain,” Dr Althaf said, detailing the new additions, which also include high-quality tuna, fresh vegetables, cheeses, and other dairy products.He pointed out that the success of the Spanish food penetration into the Qatari market is attributed directly to the Spanish diplomatic presence.“I must say that the Spanish embassy has a very, very strong mechanism here to promote their food,” Dr Althaf noted. This mechanism, he added, involves introducing global initiatives such as the Spanish government’s programme, “Eat Spain Drink Spain,” which LuLu is now bringing to the Qatari market.He stressed that consumers must also be reassured about the sourcing process. LuLu, he said, maintains a high degree of traceability, employing teams stationed in Spain who oversee and test products to ensure they meet stringent health standards of Qatar, as well as regulatory and religious requirements, including proper Halal slaughter procedures.Dr Althaf highlighted the cultural significance, noting that Spanish food, particularly its Mediterranean components like olive oil and saffron, is “very close to our region and our culture when it comes to food.”Addressing the challenge of importing premium Spanish goods without high cost, Dr Althaf explained that affordability is achieved through optimal operational practices, not by sacrificing quality.“We believe good food is never expensive, if you source it properly, if you have good logistics to work with, if you maintain your cold chain, you avoid your wastage,” he said.He pointed out that while Spain certainly produces gourmet products, the nation is fundamentally a massive “powerhouse of food production worldwide,” known for high-quality fruits and vegetables, which allows for substantial volume and competitive pricing once logistical efficiency is maximised.He noted that the volume of goods arriving from Spain is now “substantial,” having established itself as a regular feature in LuLu’s supermarkets, rather than just a seasonal offering.Dr Althaf also reiterated LuLu’s commitment to the local market, describing Qatar as a “very steady market”. As the country expands into new areas, he said LuLu plans to increase its local footprint.“We will go logically wherever Qatar population is expanding. We will have outlets, and this year itself, we are planning some sign ups with the new communities,” Dr Althaf added, underscoring the retailer’s strategy to grow alongside the nation’s developing infrastructure and population centres.
