Event report
Qatar Country Session at the GCC France Business Forum: a Thriving Business Hub in the Heart of the Gulf
As part of the GCC France Business Forum, the CCI France Qatar organized a country conference dedicated to Qatar, with the objective of showcasing the country's attractiveness within the Gulf region and the business opportunities it offers to French companies.
Moderated by Sandrine Lescaroux, Managing Director of CCI France Qatar, the session brought together a distinguished panel of experts to discuss Qatar’s economic dynamics and the drivers of long-term cooperation:
- Aymen Mohib, Director of Strategy – Invest Qatar
- Jérôme Perrier, CEO – Crédit Agricole CIB Qatar
- Anthony Feghali, Senior Associate – Boustany Law Firm
- Mickaël Yagoubi, Executive Director – Mineur-Bécourt Middle East
The speakers highlighted Qatar’s growing position as a stable, innovative, and open market, supported by world-class infrastructure, a modernized regulatory framework, and a diversifying economy.
With more than 120 French companies established locally, the country stands out as a strategic hub for regional development.
Aymen Mohib described Qatar’s economy as “diversified, open, and innovation-driven,” emphasizing Invest Qatar’s role in supporting foreign investors and promoting promising sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare, logistics, and technology.
Jérôme Perrier underlined the contribution of French financial institutions like Crédit Agricole CIB to financing Qatar’s strategic projects and fostering the development of sustainable finance.
Anthony Feghali presented the latest reforms that facilitate foreign investment: the strengthening of the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), the modernization of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the extension of 100% foreign ownership across multiple sectors. He also stressed the importance of strong local partnerships and sound contractual practices to secure long-term success.
Finally, Mickaël Yagoubi shared the experience of Mineur-Bécourt, a French SME recently established in Qatar. He described a demanding yet promising market where success relies on cultural adaptability, operational rigor, and the quality of local relationships. His advice: “Come with a long-term vision and surround yourself with the right partners.”
The session concluded with a powerful message from Sandrine Lescaroux, highlighting the human dimension of business success:
Qatar is a land of opportunity, but it is the consistency and quality of relationships that make the difference.
