On stability, competitiveness and revival in Syria’s consumer goods industry By what means have diversified fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies evolved through the conflict years and into the current recovery phase? HADI JOUD: The evolution of multi-vertical FMCG manufacturers and traders in Syria mirrors the broader trajectory of the national economy. Many of these businesses operate…
On rebuilding Syria’s trade and industrial base How would you characterise the current stage of economic recovery in Syria, particularly in trade and commodity markets? AMMAR BARDAN: Syria is clearly in a recovery phase, but it is in an early and uneven stage. We are seeing renewed commercial activity in trade and commodity markets, particularly in essential goods such as animal feed, agricultural…
In 2026 Qatar’s industry sector is moving from planning to execution, with years of strategic investment beginning to translate into tangible operational outcomes. Beyond accelerating diversification, the first full year of implementation under the Third National Development Strategy (NDS-3) for years 2024-30 and the National Manufacturing Strategy (NMS) for the corresponding time period look to…
Qatar is continuing to reorient its defence posture from a procurement-led model towards one that emphasises building sovereign industrial capabilities through partnerships with global firms. Recent regional security developments and the disruption associated with the 2026 conflict have highlighted the importance of resilient supply chains, operational readiness and access to advanced defence technologies,…
Interview : Rama Chakaki, President, Qatar Science and Technology Park, on scaling technology ventures, digital transformation and future-ready production systems How is Qatar fostering innovation and technology development within its industrial sector? CHAKAKI: Qatar is taking a long-term approach to embedding advanced technology into its industrial base, shifting from a resource-driven model to…
In 2026 Qatar’s industry sector is moving from planning to execution, with years of strategic investment beginning to translate into tangible operational outcomes. Beyond accelerating diversification, the first full year of implementation under the Third National Development Strategy for years 2024-30 and the National Manufacturing Strategy for the corresponding time period look to position the country…
Despite heightened regional uncertainty stemming from the 2026 Iran conflict, Qatar continues to demonstrate economic resilience, supported by its position as one of the world’s leading LNG exporters, strong fiscal fundamentals and prudent policymaking. While short-term disruption has affected energy exports, trade and logistics, the country remains committed to advancing the objectives of Qatar
On turning capacity into opportunity How do you assess the strength of current state the aluminium manufacturing sector? HASSAN DAABOUL: There is a relatively large installed capacity for aluminium production, much of which has been idle for over a decade. With stability returning, these facilities have begun to resume operations. The country enters this phase with a solid industrial base; what…
On pressure and opportunity in rebuilding Syria’s consumer goods market How would you describe the evolution of Syria’s fast-moving consumer good (FMCG) market from the pre-war years to the post-conflict period? FIRAS SHAMMAS: In the mid-2000s, the Syrian market was increasingly driven by quality, brand selection and consumer aspiration. Syrian consumers were well educated and eager to access…
In this Global Platform video, Mohamed Jaidah, Group Executive Director, Jaidah Group, discusses the progress made within Qatar’s automotive and mobility sector. The country has undergone a significant transformation since it hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and was in a unique position to think ahead for the future as it prepared for the global sporting event. And, as Jaidah highlights, the
