Qatar-China Trade Reach QR80bn in 2023, Says Sheikh Khalifa

Trade between Qatar and China stood at QR80bn in 2023, according to Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani.

Sheikh Khalifa revealed the trade figures during a joint meeting between Qatar Chamber and a delegation from China held on Mondays at the National Museum of Qatar.

The meeting was held in the presence of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, chairperson of Qatar Museums, and HE the Minister of State and chairman of Qatar Free Zones Authority Dr Ahmad bin Mohamed al-Sayed.

During the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa was joined by David Yu, co-founder and chairman of YF Capital, and several Qatar Chamber members, Qatari business leaders, and heads of major Chinese companies.

Addressing the forum, Sheikh Khalifa emphasised the close and rapidly developing relations between Qatar and China, especially in the economic and commercial fields. 

He highlighted the frequency of mutual visits at all levels and the numerous agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the two countries, demonstrating the depth of co-operation in various sectors.

Sheikh Khalifa said numerous Chinese companies are operating in various sectors in Qatar, noting that the Qatari market features a wide range of high-quality Chinese products at reasonable prices.

He said Qatar has successfully maintained its status as an ideal destination for business and investment, offering a multitude of opportunities across all sectors. It boasts world-class infrastructure, leading economic legislation, and plenty of incentives and facilities for foreign investors.

Sheikh Khalifa also invited Chinese companies to invest in Qatar and establish genuine partnerships with their Qatari counterparts, encouraging Qatari investors to explore investment opportunities in China, which offers a multitude of opportunities across various sectors.

For his part, Yu said YF Capital Group was founded in 2010 and has become a leading private equity firm in China with over $20bn in total assets.

 The firm has invested in over 200 industries across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, new energy, and logistics. YF Capital manages capital on behalf of leading sovereign wealth funds, insurance companies, and family offices, he said.

During the forum, the Chinese delegation delivered several presentations highlighting notable affiliates of YF Capital, including Alibaba International Digital Trading Co (AIDC).

On the other hand, several presentations were delivered by Invest Qatar, Qatar Free Zones Authority, Qatar Sports Investment Company, and beIN Group. Additionally, the forum facilitated B2B bilateral meetings between Qatari and Chinese businessmen.