USQBC executive highlights growth potential in IT, AI partnerships between Qatar-US firms

Collaboration between Qatari and US companies can provide significant opportunities for growth in areas, such as information technology (IT), cybersecurity, fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation, an official of US-Qatar Business Council (USQBC) Doha Office has said.Sheikha Mayes bint Hamad al-Thani, USQBC Doha managing director, said the recently-held Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg has helped influence the exchange of ideas and fostering cooperation between Qatar and the US."Qatar has made investments in technology and innovation to diversify its economy and increase its competitiveness...during the forum, technological advancements were showcased, knowledge exchange was facilitated, and partnerships in the technology and innovation sectors were fostered,” Sheikha Mayes told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.Following USQBC’s participation in the forum, Sheikha Mayes highlighted several ways in which the council can support Qatari businesses in expanding their reach and establishing a presence in the US market.She said USQBC can provide valuable intelligence and research on the US market to Qatari businesses. This includes information on industry trends, consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and market entry strategies."By leveraging insights gained from the Qatar Economic Forum discussions and presentations, USQBC can help Qatari businesses identify opportunities and make informed decisions when entering the US market,” she said.According to Sheikha Mayes, USQBC actively promotes Qatari businesses in the US market to potential investors, trade partners, and customers. By utilising the outcomes and recommendations of the forum, USQBC showcases Qatar’s investment potential and business opportunities by organising targeted investment seminars, trade missions, or roadshows, which generate exposure and attract the interest of American counterparts.Sheikha Mayes also emphasised that USQBC plays a crucial role in providing market intelligence, facilitating networking opportunities, promoting investment and trade, and granting access to resources and partnerships for Qatari businesses expanding into the US market."We have been engaged in various partnerships and memorandums of understanding with several government agencies. We work together on developing programmes to further enhance the attraction of business and investment to both countries. Following the forum, several outcomes and discussions will be added to these agreements,” she said.Sheikha Mayes underscored the importance of QEF, saying that it contributes significantly to shaping the business landscape by promoting dialogue and collaboration, showcasing investment opportunities, encouraging economic diversification, innovation and entrepreneurship, enhancing global visibility, and influencing policy formulation, among other things.She said the field of energy and renewable resources, defence and security, technology and innovation, and education and research are among the specific sectors or industries that have significant potential for growth and collaboration between Qatar and the US."Qatar Economic Forum contributed to the development of these sectors by providing stakeholders with a platform for sharing insights, exchanging ideas, and exploring collaborative opportunities. A forum such as this facilitates networking and matchmaking sessions, showcases success stories and best practices, and fosters dialogue between industry leaders, policymakers, and potential investors."As the forum highlights opportunities, discusses challenges, and promotes collaboration, it can play an important role in driving growth and fostering partnerships between Qatar and the US in these industries,” she explained.On plans for joint initiatives or programmes to enhance educational and professional development opportunities between Qatar and the US, Sheikha Mayes said USQBC is committed to continuing to support education and professional development."Since we began working with Georgetown University in Qatar on the accredited internship programme, we have hired and trained several students. This is something we will continue to do. In fact, we may even expand our partnerships to other educational institutions."It is USQBC’s intention to contribute to economic diversification and job creation by supporting the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Providing SMEs with resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship programmes can help them gain access to markets, build capacity, and scale their businesses,” she said.