Trade & Investment
From The Report: Qatar 2026
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Qatar occupies a strategic position in global trade as the world’s second-largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG). While trade revenue has historically withstood hydrocarbons price volatility, 2026 has brought new challenges, including export disruptions, shipping constraints and damage to LNG infrastructure. At the same time, reforms introduced following a modest post-2022 World Cup decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) have contributed to a renewed increase in inflows. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz starting in March 2026, together with conflict-related disruption across Gulf energy networks, created a significant short-term shock to trade and logistics, affecting LNG exports and maritime insurance costs.
Despite these disruptions, Qatar’s work to enhance its business environment supports inward investment and non-oil economic expansion, as is visible in recent increases in inward FDI and venture capital and the expansion of its non-oil economy.

This chapter contains an interview with Khalid bin Ahmad Al Obaidli, Chairman and CEO, Economic Zones Company.