More focus on self-sufficiency in key industries last year

Though Qatar experienced a blockade by some countries since June 5, 2017, the year was one of major achievements for the country as a whole in different fields, with more focus on self-sufficiency in key industries.Local Arabic daily Arrayah reported yesterday that a considerable number of Qatari businessmen said that many major projects were launched by the government last year and the country succeeded in overcoming very quickly the shock over the sudden blockade, which could not delay the ongoing progress.They expected a 100% increase in the local and foreign investments for 2018 due to the state budget that allocated 45.8% for mega projects and a good percentage for the small- and medium-sized enterprises, in addition to the food security projects, logistic and services businesses and providing safe and stable infrastructure for investment.Besides, the government has taken the necessary measures and adopted the positive legislation that encourages investors, making Qatar an investment friendly country attracting foreign capital.According to the businessmen’s expectations for the new year, the construction sector would grow by 25%, food industries by 15% and livestock and fish production by 80%. They also expect small and medium industries to meet 95% of needs of the local market.Businessman Ahmed al-Khalaf expressed his optimism about the new year, expecting that food, medicine and primary materials industries would see a quantum leap this year.He stressed that the blockade has enhanced the national spirit among its people and expedited the rate of achievement, aiming at attaining 100% self-sufficiency indifferent fields.Businessman Jaber Rashid al-Marri also hoped that medicine and petrochemical industries in the country would see major successes and growth this year. He expected that investment in all major fields such as food, logistics, construction and manufacturing and education would see unprecedented growth and development.Saeed al-Muhannadi, another entrepreneur, was of the view that 2018 would be the year of comprehensive development and growth in the country, and would see more unity among its people that would positively reflect on the economy.