Qatar Chamber Remains Key Driver of National Economy, Says Sheikh Khalifa

Qatar Chamber continues to play a pivotal role as a key driver of the national economy amid the rapid transformations in the global economy, said Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani, who presided over the chamber’s General Assembly Meeting (GAM) Monday.

The meeting, attended by board members, several businessmen and chamber members, as well as representatives from various media outlets, reviewed the board of directors’ report on the chamber’s activities and financial status last year. It also discharged members of the board, approved the estimated budget for the 2025 fiscal year, appointed a new auditor and determined their fees.

Upon reviewing the board of directors’ report, Sheikh Khalifa lauded the board’s efforts to support the private sector, enhance the chamber’s work mechanisms, and develop the business environment in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.

He underscored the chamber’s contributions in stimulating trade activity, expanding the investment base, and supporting the development of economic policies that promote comprehensive and sustainable growth in the country.

Addressing the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa expressed sincere gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani “for his unwavering support of the private sector”.

He also lauded His Highness the Amir’s interest in empowering the private sector to fulfil its pivotal role in the state’s economic development as a genuine partner to the public sector and a main economic driver, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Sheikh Khalifa thanked His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani and HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani for their continuous support of the private sector.

He noted that throughout 2024, the chamber continued its role in supporting and improving the business environment in the country, emphasising its efforts in representing and advocating for the interests of Qatar’s private sector, promoting the investment climate and opportunities within the state, and reinforcing Qatar’s position as a global leader in investment, business, and trade.

“These achievements align with the country’s commitment to sustainable development, particularly following the launch of the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) 2024-2030, which prioritises sustainable economic growth.

“In support of Qatar’s private sector companies, the chamber reduced its service fees under Cabinet Decision No 19 of 2024, which aims to alleviate financial burdens on Qatari businesses, facilitate businesses, and encourage investments,” Sheikh Khalifa said.

“The chamber also continued to strengthen cooperation with relevant entities in the country to address the issues and challenges facing the private sector and to develop appropriate solutions. 

In this context, it hosted many open dialogues with officials from various ministries and agencies to identify and resolve these challenges,” he also said.

Throughout the year, the chamber launched several significant initiatives aimed at enhancing foreign investment. It organised several business visits for Qatari business owners to various countries to promote partnerships.

It hosted many meetings with business delegations, representatives of chambers, and economic dignitaries. The chamber’s sectoral committees held many meetings with private sector representatives to identify obstacles and suggest appropriate solutions.

By the end of December 2024, the chamber had issued a total of 154,778 transactions (98,811 electronic and 55,967 non-electronic), and issued 50,262 certificates of origin, with a 7% growth compared with the previous year. Additionally, the chamber issued 13 ATA carnets and 10 TIR carnets (Transports Internationaux Routiers or International Road Transport).

Sheikh Khalifa expressed confidence that 2025 will bring further success and prosperity to the private sector and a more effective role in supporting the national economy. 

During the meeting, several topics raised by several businessmen were discussed, including issues related to industrial zones and new industrial land contracts, how government employees interact with investors and businessmen, and the importance of organising specialised seminars at the chamber on various economic matters.