The business bilateral ties between Qatar and Switzerland are described as promising by the Ambassador of Switzerland to Qatar, H E Florence Tinguely Mattli. Initiatives such as the Qatar-Swiss innovation programme are expected to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries. The Ambassador noted that programmes in innovation, particularly in AI, life science, digitalization, research, and development, are key focuses in boosting businesses and investments. She highlighted the role of the Swiss Business Council in helping to identify investment opportunities and matching innovative companies with research centers in Qatar.
Ambassador Mattli emphasized the collaboration on joint innovation and research projects between the Embassy of Switzerland to Qatar and the Swiss Business Council Qatar. The Ambassador highlighted a recent initiative on corporate social responsibility benefiting Swiss companies and businesses in Qatar. She also discussed the joint initiative between Qatar and the UN on the ‘UN Code of Conduct’ for employers of domestic workers, which aims to ensure basic rules for domestic workers are followed. The Ambassador expressed her support for this initiative by the Qatari Government and the International Labour Organization.
The Ambassador praised the dynamic interest of both countries across various realms, particularly in research and innovation. She noted that Qatar’s progress towards the third phase of Vision 2030, transitioning into a knowledge-based economy, makes it an attractive destination for Swiss companies. The Ambassador highlighted Switzerland’s cutting-edge technologies and expertise, making it an interesting partner for Qatar. She concluded by emphasizing the solid relations between the two countries and the opportunities for collaboration in research and innovation.
According to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade, Switzerland imported $314.48m worth of goods from Qatar in 2023, while exports to Qatar reached $886.19m in the same year. This trade data reflects the existing economic ties between the two countries and indicates the potential for further growth in bilateral trade and investment. Overall, the Ambassador’s comments underscore the positive outlook for the future of the business relationship between Qatar and Switzerland, particularly in the areas of innovation, research, and economic cooperation.
