Latest news with #NationalManufacturingStrategy
Qatar Tribune
28-06-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Minister, manufacturers meet aims to boost industrial development
Tribune News Network Doha In a landmark move that underscores Qatar's unwavering commitment to industrial development and economic diversification, Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani convened a strategic roundtable with an influential group of Qatari manufacturers at the ministry's headquarters. The session, part of the ministry's proactive approach to strengthen public-private engagement, reaffirmed the government's resolve to support domestic industries, identify real-world challenges on the ground, and implement tangible solutions aimed at enhancing the performance, resilience, and global competitiveness of Qatar's manufacturing sector. The dialogue delved deep into current challenges facing factory owners and industrial investors, including regulatory bottlenecks, operational inefficiencies, infrastructure needs, and access to finance. A range of proposals was tabled, spanning modernisation of industrial policies, better service delivery, and the simplification of procedures related to permits, licencing, and land allocation. He emphasised the need for swift, collaborative action to create a more agile industrial ecosystem—one that is adaptable to market dynamics, encourages innovation, and empowers investors to scale up operations confidently. He reaffirmed the ministry's role as both a regulator and a facilitator, committed to aligning industrial initiatives with the broader goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. 'The national industrial sector is not only a cornerstone of Qatar's economic development but also a critical driver in building a self-reliant, knowledge-based economy,' Sheikh Faisal stated. 'By fostering synergy between policymakers and manufacturers, we are laying the groundwork for an industrial renaissance that will serve generations to come.' One of the most significant announcements from the meeting was the planned transition of operational management of the Small and Medium Industries Zone to Manateq, Qatar's premier economic zones developer. This handover is set to optimize the functionality of industrial zones, reduce bureaucratic overlap, and improve investor services. The minister clarified that while the Ministry will retain its strategic regulatory and oversight functions, Manateq will take on a more prominent role in managing day-to-day operations and delivering infrastructure solutions. This shift is in direct alignment with the directives of His Excellency the Prime Minister and key pillars of the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3), particularly those related to improving logistics, updating industrial legislation, and upgrading physical infrastructure. The meeting also served as a platform to introduce elements of the National Manufacturing Strategy, which is being refined to reflect emerging global trends such as digitalisation, green manufacturing, and circular economy principles. Manufacturers were encouraged to adopt sustainable practices, integrate advanced technologies such as automation and AI, and explore export-oriented growth models. Attendees expressed appreciation for the ministry's continued engagement, noting that direct communication channels with decision-makers provide invaluable opportunities to voice concerns, share feedback, and co-develop policy solutions. As Qatar navigates a new era of post-hydrocarbon economic development, today's meeting marks a pivotal moment in recalibrating its industrial agenda toward a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and resilience.
Qatar Tribune
28-06-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Commerce minister holds meeting with Qatari manufacturers
DOHA: Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani held a meeting with a number of Qatari manufacturers, as part of the Ministry's ongoing commitment to monitor the status of the national industrial sector and support industrial investors. According to a statement from the Ministry, the meeting addressed key challenges facing factory owners and explored ways to enhance the competitiveness of the industrial sector, stimulate its sustainable growth, and support local production. The discussion also covered current regulatory procedures and included proposals to improve the industrial business environment and facilitate the establishment of new projects. During the meeting, the Minister of Commerce and Industry emphasized the importance of joint efforts to create a stimulating and attractive industrial investment environment. Such an environment, he noted, would help boost the sector's contribution to the national economy and diversify sources of income. He affirmed that the national industrial sector is a fundamental pillar in achieving economic development and broader national goals. He informed the industrialists that the Ministry's medium-term plan is to focus on its supervisory role, while transferring operational responsibilities to Manateq (Economic Zones Company) to enhance operational efficiency in industrial zones, streamline procedures, and accelerate processes. This approach aligns with the directives of the Prime Minister, Qatar's National Manufacturing Strategy, and the Third National Development Strategy, particularly in areas such as improving industrial infrastructure, updating legislation, and enhancing the quality of services provided to investors. The meeting also addressed the challenges faced by factories in dealing with Manateq following the transition of the Small and Medium Industries Zone to direct management by the company.
Zawya
17-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar: Government strategies aim to enhance industrial sector by boosting SMEs
Doha, Qatar: The government's recent strategies to prioritise sustainable goals and bolster SMEs to expand their presence are poised to enhance the industrial sector in Qatar over the coming quarters, stated Anum Hassan, Head of Research at ValuStrat Qatar. Qatar has unveiled several key initiatives in the industrial sector in recent years, aimed at diversifying the economy, promoting sustainability, and fostering growth in line with the National Vision 2030. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) introduced Qatar's National Manufacturing Strategy, emphasising sustainable development, economic diversification, and the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) growth, all aligned with the goals of the National Vision 2030. This strategy aims to position Qatar as a global hub for manufacturing excellence, contributing to the nation's long-term economic goals. Qatar introduced various incentives to attract both domestic and foreign investments in the industrial sector. These incentives include tax exemptions, financial support, and facilitation of land access for industrial projects, encouraging companies to establish and expand operations in Qatar. Qatar has been investing in the development of industrial zones, such as the Qatar Industrial Zone, to support manufacturing and other industrial activities. These zones provide infrastructure, logistical support, and regulatory frameworks designed to streamline the growth of industries like chemicals, steel, and heavy manufacturing. The country is also promoting the use of advanced technologies in the industrial sector, including the adoption of digitalization, automation, and smart manufacturing processes. These technologies are aimed at increasing productivity, enhancing competitiveness, and driving innovation across industries. These initiatives are aligned with Qatar's goal to diversify its economy away from oil and gas dependence and to establish a robust and competitive industrial sector that contributes to economic stability and growth. However, a recent data by ValuStrat shows that in the fourth quarter of 2024, the industrial sector experienced some adjustments, with rents for ambient warehouses and temperature-controlled facilities dropping by 7 percent and 1.2 percent quarter-over-quarter, respectively. According to the latest NPC data, the Industrial Production Index (IPI) with a base year of 2018=100, was recorded at 103.6 points. The foreign merchandise trade surplus reached a total of QR17.7bn, reflecting a significant positive balance in the country's trade of goods with international markets during the reported period. Over the course of the year, a total of 1,461 new industrial firms were established, contributing to an overall production value that exceeded QR2.6 trillion. This achievement represents a 3 percent year-on-year increase, highlighting the growth and expansion of the industrial sector. Qatar Maritime reported 261 vessel callings in December across Hamad, Doha, and Ruwais ports, marking a notable 17% year-on-year increase in port activity. Through out the year, more than 2,500 ships docked at these three ports, collectively handling over 1.3 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of container cargo, showcasing a strong performance in maritime trade. On the real estate front, the monthly median asking rent for ambient warehouses dropped by 7 percent quarter-over-quarter, settling at QAR 34.4 per square meter, which represents a 9.1% decrease compared to the previous year. Similarly, the monthly median rent for cold storage facilities saw a slight decline of 1.2 percent on a quarterly basis but experienced a 1.1 percent increase on a yearly basis, reaching QR42.7 per square meter. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( The Peninsula Newspaper
