Qatari, French business leaders push to turn trade deals into industrial projects

Qatari business leaders and French trade officials have called for a shift away from traditional import-export trade and towards direct industrial partnerships. This proposal was made during a high-level meeting hosted by the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) in Doha, alongside the French President's state visit. The QBA chairman stressed the importance of building strategic partnerships, with Qatari companies partnering in investment, production, and innovation with French counterparts.

Both sides agreed on the need to move from agreements to tangible business outcomes, with a focus on technology transfer and joint ventures, particularly for SMEs. France's Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade emphasized the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship, with the French government allocating €3bn to support startups.

The meeting also stressed the need to leverage these capabilities to expand partnerships in technology and advanced industries, encouraging collaboration between startups and SMEs in both countries. Qatari infrastructure and investment environment were highlighted as key assets, positioning Qatar as a regional hub for advanced industries and services.

French representatives viewed Qatar as a strategic gateway for growing across the Gulf, encouraging French firms to establish operations in Doha. Bilateral trade between Qatar and France reached €1.67bn in 2025, with 665 French businesses operating in Qatar. Qatar's commitment to invest €10bn in France, as announced during the Amir's visit to Paris in 2024, marks a significant milestone in investment cooperation, particularly in technology, industry, energy, and digital transformation.