26-06-2025
QC, Al Ahsa chamber explore ways to strengthen trade ties
Tribune News Network
Doha
In a significant move to deepen economic collaboration and reinforce private sector cooperation, Qatar Chamber (QC) on Thursday hosted a high-level delegation from the Al-Ahsa Chamber of Commerce, Saudi Arabia.
The visiting delegation was led by the Al Ahsa Chamber Chairman Mohamed bin Abdulaziz Al Afaleq and included vice-chairmen, board members, and the secretary-general.
The delegation was received at Qatar Chamber headquarters by QC Second Vice-Chairman Rashid bin Hamad Al Athba along with several QC board members and seniorofficials.
The high-level meeting focused on exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation between the two chambers, with the objective of fostering closer ties between the private sectors of Qatar and Saudi Arabia particularly in the Al-Ahsa region, known for its economic potential and vibrant businessenvironment.
In his opening remarks, Rashid Al Athba underlined the Qatar Chamber's firm commitment to enhancing collaboration with its Saudi counterpart. He stressed the need to forge strong partnerships between Qatari and Saudi business communities, identifying investment opportunities and encouraging the establishment of joint ventures that can boost bilateral trade and foster sustainable economicdevelopment.
Highlighting the growing economic and trade relationship between the two countries, Al Athba noted the remarkable 65 percent increase in bilateral trade, which surged from QR2.97 billion in 2023 to QR4.88 billion in 2024. He attributed this impressive growth to the forward-looking visions and strategic directives of the leaderships in both nations.
'The robust ties between Qatar and Saudi Arabia are built on mutual respect, shared history, and a common vision for economic prosperity. The private sector plays a vital role in realising the aspirations outlined in our respective National Vision 2030 frameworks,' Al Athba said.
He encouraged companies from both countries to explore untapped opportunities in key sectors such as manufacturing, food security, logistics, tourism, and technology — all of which offer value-added prospects and long-term growth.
Al Athba also reaffirmed Qatar Chamber's support for any initiative that seeks to promote cross-border collaboration and investment flows, expressing optimism about intensifying coordination with the Al Ahsa Chamber through joint programmes, exchange visits, and forums.
Speaking at the meeting, Mohamed Al Afaleq, emphasised the historic and fraternal relations between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, asserting that stronger private sector cooperation is pivotal for achieving economic integration.
He reiterated the Al Ahsa Chamber's readiness to work hand-in-hand with Qatar Chamber to foster stronger business ties, facilitate bilateral trade, and promote investments in both regions. Al Afaleq also lauded the efforts of the Qatari-Saudi Joint Business Council for its instrumental role in nurturing a conducive environment for private sector engagement.
In a proactive gesture, Al Afaleq extended an invitation to the Qatar Chamber to lead a delegation of Qatari entrepreneurs and investors to Al Ahsa. The proposed visit aims to showcase the promising investment opportunities available in Al Ahsa Oasis — a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most dynamic economic zones in eastern Saudi Arabia.
As part of the meeting's agenda, attendees were presented with a detailed overview of Qatar's business landscape, investment climate, and strategic sectors open to foreign investors. The presentation was followed by bilateral business-to-business (B2B) sessions, allowing Qatari and Saudi businessmen to explore potential synergies, discuss trade alliances, and lay the groundwork for future partnerships.
Both chambers agreed on the importance of continuous dialogue and joint action to capitalize on emerging opportunities and reinforce the role of the private sector in shaping the future of Qatari-Saudi economic relations.
The meeting concluded on a high note with mutual agreement to enhance institutional collaboration, co-organize business forums, and strengthen the framework for commercial cooperation in alignment with the evolving economic goals of both nations.
