Doha: Turkish and Qatari companies have completed a cooperation agreement to increase Turkish exports into the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.
According to the agreement signed by Turkey’s Medyacity and Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC), of Qatar Foundation, representatives from over 300 Turkish companies are expected to visit Doha in April 2017 to participate in EXPO Turkey.
Expo Turkey looks at reaching more than 3,000 business people from Mena who are expected to visit the expo, and 2,000 special business meetings are being planned to increase Turkey’s exports to Qatar from $400m to $1bn, which is twice the current export volume.
Hakan Kurt, CEO, Medyacity, said: “Turkey’s exports to Qatar are currently worth $400m. Our target is to double the volume through the expo and reach $1bn in the coming years. By turning Turkey’s proximity to North Africa and Middle East, which are the target markets for the world, into an advantage, we believe that we should increase our industrial activities in the region. The Turkish companies and brands have a huge potential in the region.
“The sectors include health, tourism, energy, environment management, construction, real estate, construction materials, food and halal food, halal tourism, technology, IT and mobile technologies, transportation, smart cities, urban transformation and jewellery and other industries,” he added.
Abdul Aziz Al Emadi, CEO, Qatar National Convention Center (Amlak), said: “As the relationship between both countries grows, so do business opportunities. This economic brotherhood between both nations will not only profit the government companies directly, but also help facilitate the growth of trade and businesses on a business to business level.
“The location of Qatar plays a pivotal role in bringing in global players to showcase brands and franchising opportunities not only for the GCC, but also the pan-Arabia and North Africa.
“We believe that such an exhibition will not only contribute to Turkey’s presence from an investment perspective in the region, but also in terms of business opportunities for the region. The QNCC has a strong presence in leveraging these events as an industry expert and logistical leader, and we look forward to the success of this partnership.”
Another part of the cooperation agreement is a City of Turkish Culture in the exhibition area.
QNA
