Qatar economic, investment activity remains robust: Sheikh Faisal

Qatar's economic and investment activity continues to be robust, according to the country's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal al-Thani. The statement was made during the Qatar Economic Forum: UNGA Special Edition 2026, which took place recently in New York. Sheikh Faisal was part of the ministry's participation as an Official Partner at the forum.

His speech came during a plenary session on 'The Growth Agenda', where he discussed several key points with industry leaders such as Bruce Flatt, CEO of Brookfield Corporation, and Christina Ruffini from Bloomberg.

Sheikh Faisal highlighted a 60% increase in the number of foreign-owned companies registered in the most recent quarter, compared to the same period last year. This growth was accompanied by a 12% increase in exports by local manufacturers. Additionally, several international companies are considering either relocating their regional headquarters to Qatar or expanding their presence in the country.

Discussions with at least four companies involved potential foreign direct investments amounting to $15 billion, and these companies have not changed their investment plans.

The forum also covered the future of growth, shifts in trade policy, and how governments, businesses, and investors are responding to the global economic changes. Artificial intelligence was discussed as a tool to increase productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and attract high-value investments. The private sector's role in developing capabilities and expanding presence in global markets, amidst changing trade routes, capital flows, and supply chains, was also a significant topic.

Sheikh Faisal emphasized that approximately 90% of global shipping takes place by sea, making maritime routes crucial for Qatar's economy. To improve economic resilience and diversify supply chains, Qatar is focusing on goods and services that can be produced or delivered locally, such as data and computing services.

Sheikh Faisal also participated in bilateral meetings with international business leaders, including Raj Ganguly of B Capital, Sebastien Bazin of Accor, Bruce Flatt of Brookfield Corporation, Mark Coombs of Ashmore Group, and David M Rubenstein of Carlyle. These meetings focused on expanding cooperation and investment opportunities across several priority sectors, such as technology, AI, infrastructure, hospitality, asset management, and alternative investments.

Discussions also included new partnership opportunities, strategies to increase high-value investment flows, and measures to support business growth and expansion. The forum, themed 'Growth on New Terms: Capital, Risk and Resilience,' brought together global leaders from various sectors, including heads of state and government, policymakers, investors, and business representatives.