QBA calls for Qatar-France investment partnerships

Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al Thani, a member of the QBA Board, urged the advancement of the Qatari–French economic partnership. He stressed the importance of integrating French technology and industries into Qatar, transferring knowledge and expertise, and forming joint production ventures. Sheikh Nawaf suggested shifting away from the conventional trade relations model, focusing instead on genuine industrial and investment collaborations that allow Qatari companies to participate in manufacturing, production, and development while reaping the benefits of French firms' advanced expertise and technologies.

QBA Board Member Saoud Omar Al Mana underlined the need for establishing practical mechanisms to engage directly with French companies, facilitating the exchange of investment prospects and identifying projects ideal for long-term partnerships. The gathering also highlighted the significance of utilizing French expertise in industrial and technology sectors in alignment with Qatar’s economic diversification objectives under Qatar National Vision 2030.

Xavier-Marie Robert, CEO of Societe Generale Qatar and President of the French Chamber of Commerce in Qatar, spoke of the role French companies have in Qatar, contributing to the national economy through investments and activities in diverse sectors. He also highlighted the advanced solutions and technology French companies bring to the business environment in Qatar.

Robert encouraged French firms to increase their investments and presence in the Qatari market, describing Qatar as an ideal gateway for French businesses expanding across the GCC. This is due to Qatar's strategic location, advanced infrastructure, investor-friendly environment, and incentives available for foreign investors.

Economic relations between Qatar and France are steadily growing, demonstrating the strength of their strategic partnership. Bilateral trade in goods reached €1.67 billion in 2025. Around 665 French companies operate in the Qatari market, spanning various sectors. In February 2024, Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani announced a commitment to invest €10 billion in France, marking a significant milestone in investment cooperation, particularly in technology, industry, energy, and digital transformation.

These indicators emphasize the necessity of transforming the economic relationship into a new phase, focused on converting agreements into actual projects, expanding direct partnerships between Qatari and French companies, and enhancing the role of SMEs in mutual investment. At the meeting's conclusion, QBA reiterated its dedication to ongoing cooperation with French economic entities and participating companies, aiming to strengthen channels of communication between the two business communities to develop investment opportunities and joint projects that benefit the economic interests of both parties.