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The Ministry of Economy and Commerce, in collaboration with Almana Motors Company dealer of Peugeot vehicles in Qatar, has announced the recall of all Peugeot models of 2010 – 2014 due to a defect in the temperature sensor.
 
The Ministry said the recall campaign comes within the framework of its ongoing efforts to protect consumers and ensure that car dealers follow up on vehicle defects and repairs.
 
The Ministry said that it will coordinate with the dealer to follow up on the maintenance and repair works and will communicate with customers to ensure that the necessary repairs are carried out.
 
The Ministry urges all customers to report any violations to its Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department through the following channels:
 
Hotline: 16001
Email: info@mec.gov.qa
Social media accounts:
Twitter: @MEC_Qatar
Instagram: MEC_Qatar

Ministry of Economy and Commerce mobile app for Android and IOS: MEC_Qatar

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Ministry of Economy and Commerce announces recall of Chevrolet Malibu 2011-2012 models for the modification of the belt lap anchor tensioner cable
 
The Ministry of Economy and Commerce, in collaboration with Jaidah automotive, dealer of Chevrolet vehicles in Qatar, has announced the recall of Chevrolet Malibu 2011-2012 models for the modification of the belt lap anchor tensioner cable.
 
The Ministry said the recall campaign comes within the framework of its ongoing efforts to protect consumers and ensure that car dealers follow up on vehicle defects and repairs.
 
The Ministry said that it will coordinate with the dealer to follow up on the maintenance and repair works and will communicate with customers to ensure that the necessary repairs are carried out.
 
The Ministry urges all customers to report any violations to its Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department through the following channels:
 
Hotline: 16001
Email: info@mec.gov.qa
Social media accounts:
Twitter: @MEC_Qatar
Instagram: MEC_Qatar
Ministry of Economy and Commerce mobile app for Android and IOS: MEC_Qatar
 

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The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has announced the administrative closure of a fish restaurant at one of the country’s popular commercial malls for two weeks over the sale of Samman fish labeled as Hamour.
 
The inspection campaign come within the framework of the ministry’s efforts to monitor commercial activities and crack down on consumer right violations, price manipulation, counterfeit products and substandard goods.
 
Inspectors from the Ministry fined the restaurant and compelled its closure for two weeks in line with article 7 of law number of 2008.
 
The law stipulates that suppliers of goods shall clearly display on product labels a clear description of the goods and their ingredients and refrain from posting any misleading or false statements.
 
The restaurant was compelled to publish the administrative closure decision on the ministry’s website and two daily newspapers at its own expense in line with article 3 of law number 8 on consumer protection.
 
The Ministry said it is determined to protect consumer rights and added it will intensify its inspection campaigns to crack down on all violations of the consumer protection law. The Ministry said it will refer violators of laws and ministerial decrees to the competent authorities to take appropriate action against perpetrators in order to protect the rights of consumers.
 
The Ministry of Economy and Commerce urges all consumers to report any violations to its Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud department and send complaints and suggestions through the following communication channels:
 
Hotline: 16001
– Email: info@mec.gov.qa
– The accounts of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce on social media networks
– Twitter MEC_QATAR
– Instagram MEC_QATAR
-The applications of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce on smart phones available on iPhone and Android devices MEC_QATAR

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During an inspection campaign conducted by the anti-commercial fraud section of the Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Economy and Trade, as part of the ministry’s efforts to monitor markets and economic activities in Qatar in accordance with Law No. 8 of 2008, 32 counterfeit watches carrying labels of famous international brands in addition to 105 counterfeit watch frames were seized in a store at the Old Al Ghanim area.
The sale of counterfeit watches constitutes a violation of the provisions of Article 7 of the law, which pertains to consumer protection and reads: “In exhibiting any goods for trading, the supplier is liable to clearly state, on their cover or pack, the kind, nature and components of the goods and all the information related thereto.
This is required to be made as specified in the Executive Regulations of this law. If the use of goods involves any risks, there should be a clear warning of such risks. Supplier(s) are prohibited from describing, advertising or exhibiting the goods using false or deceptive information.”
HE Sheikh Jassim bin Jabor bin Hassan Al-Thani, director of the Consumer Protection Department, has asserted that the ministry would take all steps needed to protect consumer rights.
 
 

The Ministry of Business and Trade has imposed a prize freeze on 320 food and non-food items ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. The step is an annual initiative of the ministry to keep prices under check and also to help the country’s residents during the holy month of Ramadan.
The decision of the Minister of Business and Trade divides these items into two main categories: food which include cooking oil, flour, milk, chicken, juices and frozen vegetables; and non-food items such as paper towels,aluminum foil, cleaning materials and similar products which are in great demand during Ramadan.
The Ministry has started circulating the new price list to shops, noting that the list will be permanently issued in local newspapers and can be found on the ministry’s website: www.mbt.gov.qa
The Ministry of Business and Trade has also agreed with Widam Food Company to import around 34,000 heads of live sheep of the Arabic types, which are favored by the nationals in particular. These animals will be sold directly to nationals during Ramadan on the basis of their ID cards at designated centres at the public slaughterhouse at the Doha Central market and the Widam slaughterhouses in Al-Shammal and Al-Khor.
The price of a Syrian sheep will be QR950 and that of the Jordanian variety QR850.
Nationals will be able to buy these animals at these rates starting from July 7 until the end of Ramadan. However, these sheep have to be immediately butchered at the designated slaughterhouse to avoid any manipulation or resale of the subsidized item.
To keep prices under check and ensure compliance, the Consumer Protection Department will conduct inspection tours of outlets in the country.

 In the context of the permanent efforts made by the Ministry of Business and Trade, represented by the Consumer Protection Department, to monitor the markets and the economic activities in the State, in order to ensure the consumer profit, the CP department has revealed today a number of violations committed during the month of May 2013. The violations that have been amounted to 80 violations include:

In the context of the permanent efforts made by the Ministry of Business and Trade, represented by the Consumer Protection Department, to monitor the markets and the economic activities in the State, in order to ensure the consumer profit, the CP department has revealed today a number of violations committed during the month of May 2013. The violations that have been amounted to 80 violations include:

As for the complaints received by the Consumer Protection Department, and which have been amounted to 418 complaints, they have been dealt with and transferred to the responsible competent departments for further action.

The 4th CSR conference held under the patronage of HE Sheikh Jassim Bin AbdulAziz Al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade, had been concluded on Wednesday 29/05/2013.
The conference highlighted the importance of the role of the government in establishing the concept of corporate social responsibility and set strategies capable to achieve the vision of Qatar 2030.
The conference thanked MBT and the team working on the preparation of the draft standards of Qatar for corporate social responsibility, stressing on the importance of developing a clear definition of corporate social responsibility in the Qatar, as well as putting micro, small and medium enterprises in consideration among the standards, in addition to give allow civil society organizations to be involved, noting that these standards must be reviewed carefully every four years.
Emphasizing on the recommendations rose during previous conferences on establishing an Award for Corporate social responsibility.
Considering the possibility of integrating corporate social responsibility within the community responsibility for its comprehensiveness.
Spreading social responsibility concept among individuals, society and companies through training courses, workshops as well as through the press and the Media, both audio-visual and social media.
Urging companies and businesses to determine dimensions of their social responsibility carried out deliberately, and according to the environment privacy where it operates, and directing its efforts towards sustainable development goals.
 

 

 
The 4th Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Conference, started here on Tuesday under the theme “Responsible Practices in the Business Community” with the participation of number of local, regional and international expert speakers on CSR as well as organizations working in this field.
HE the Undersecretary of the Business and Trade Ministry, Mr. Sultan bin Rashid Al-Khatir said that the private sector is an important partner and a major contributor to the march of sustainable development. The ministry expects further contribution, from this vital sector, to putting Qatar in the vanguard among the countries of the world in all areas of development.
In his speech in the opening session of the CSR conference, HE the Undersecretary lauded the great achievements in consolidating the culture of corporate social responsibility through constructive cooperation between the ministry and the business community in Qatar.
He pointed that the ministry took the initiative of adopting this concept, which was globally launched by the UN, explaining that the Ministry of Business and Trade has held three conferences those set the rules and the basis of the corporate contribution to the rise of the Qatari  society through the implementation of various social projects that are in the direction of achieving the goals of sustainable development plans leading to the achievement of the goals and objectives of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
For his part, HE Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jassim Al Thani, the Chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) stressed that Corporate Social Responsibility is, first and foremost, a moral obligation, towards the society in which they operate, on investment in human resources, creation of job opportunities and provision of healthy and safe work environment, within commitment to maintaining environment preservation, transparency and combatting financial and administrative corruption.
The assessment of private companies, no longer depends on their profitability, but on their ability to deal with the rapid developments in the economic, technological and administrative aspects, taking into account the three pillars of sustainable development, economic growth, social progress and environmental protection, he added.
In a similar address before the conference, HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Director General of Qatargas – Diamond sponsor of the Conference – said that the conference comes at a time of growing local and global interest in CSR, as the classification of companies, is no longer based on only financial performance, but through its clear commitment to the communities and the environment in which it operates.
At the 4th CSR Conference opening session, Qatari Businessmen Association’s member Mr. Salah Mohamed Al-Jaidah, CEO of Qatar Fertilizer Company (QAFCO) and the CEO of ExxonMobile, Qatar Mr. Bart Cahir delivered speeches, in which they presented live examples of CSR stressing its importance to sustainable development.
It should be noted that the fourth CSR conference will address a number of topics including: the role of governments in the implementation of policies and programs of corporate social responsibility, Qatar National Vision 2030 within the framework of the application of the principles of social responsibility, as well as discussing how to build a local network of Qatari companies committed to the principles of social responsibility.
Through multiple sessions, the conference will examine how to take advantage of the practices and experiences of international companies in this regard, in addition to discovering the obligations of companies towards society as defined by international organizations, and other topics including social responsibility as defined by the ISO guidance standard 26000 for corporate social responsibility.
The Ministry of Business and Trade has engaged in organizing the current CSR conference a number of people with special needs, paying attention to that segment of society, within the concept of corporate social responsibility which is witnessing increasing attention in the state.

 
 

 
HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani  announced the launch of  the Al Furjan (residential districts) Markets’ project  within the ministry’s  package of initiatives geared to support the competitiveness and growth of the commercial sector in Qatar.
Remote and sparsely populated areas of the country will soon have large commercial complexes so that people don’t have to travel long distances to access commodities and services of daily need.
The announcement came during a ceremony held by the ministry and attended by HE the Minister of Municipality and Urban Planning Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Khalifa Al Thani, HE the Governor of Qatar Central Bank and Board Chairman of Qatar Development Bank Sheikh Abdullah bin Saoud Al Thani, HE the Board Chairman of  Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Thani as well as a number of members of  Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Business Association and the Association of Business Women.
HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdul Aziz Al-Thani said the ministry is keen on  launching a number of development projects which will benefit the citizens in particular, and aims to support the growth and competitiveness of the business sector in the state, pointing out that the Al Furjan Markets Project is one of the  pilot projects, which meets the basic needs of commercial services for the residents of  areas  lacking such services.
He added that the project comes as a fruit of cooperation between a number of government bodies and under the directives  of the senior leadership  in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning and Qatar Development Bank, pointing out that the initiative is a basic solution to the provision of basic needs for goods and services that are used on almost daily basis  by individuals and families .
HE the Minister explained that the project will contribute, at least partially, to correcting the prices at the shops serving residential areas directly, and aims to provide shops with reasonable rental prices and supportive of sustainable growth in this important segment of the commercial sector.
During the ceremony HE the Minister of Business and Trade and the Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Development Bank Mansour Al Mahmoud signed the  award contract of the Al Furjan Markets Project’s first phase which will be implemented by Qatar Development Bank.
The complexes, to be known as Furjan (neighborhood) markets, will house provision stores, bakeries, butcheries, pharmacies, ATM kiosks, laundries, barber shops, fruits and vegetables vending areas and eateries, among other facilities.
The project is being launched in three phases. The first phase will see 12 complexes coming up in different areas. They will have 122 shops with each complex admeasuring a built-up area of between 2,500 and 3,000 square meters.
In the second phase, some 18 complexes will be built in various localities and will together have 176 shops. Each complex will be spread over an area of 700 to 2,000sqm.
The remaining 14 complexes will be built in the third phase and their sizes will each vary from 3,000sqm to 7,000sqm. They will together have 176 shops.
By the end of all phases, about 290 buildings will be ready.
 

The Ministry of Business and Trade has allowed the return of Kellogg’s Cornflakes back to markets after dispensing the damaged samples which proved not conformed with standards and unfit for human consumption, and which are:

The ministry had withdrawn a number of cornflakes samples of various dates and sent them to the central laboratories of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) for analysis following complaints about its taste.
As a result of the analysis conducted early last month on the aforesaid product in light of a complaint against it, the ministry proved the existence of ‘rancid’ in some samples, and accordingly the ministry withdrew these products for being invalid and harmful to human consumption.
The ministry has warned the sole agent of the commercial brand and the traders in general to strictly commit to the set standard specifications and the health and safety conditions as well as the sound and good-conditioned storing criteria effective in the markets to maintain the health and safety of the human consumers.

 

HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani had visited HE Senegal’s President Mr. Macky Sall at his residence at St. Regis hotel- Doha.
The two sides reviewed a number of issues on the agenda of the Doha Forum and Enriching the Middle-East’s Economic Future conference. They also discussed means of developing and boosting bilateral relations, especially in the fields of business and trade.
HE the Minister of Business and Trade briefed Mr. Sall on the work of the Business and Trade Ministry and its role in enhancing and developing Qatar’s economy.
For his part, the Senegalese president voiced his keenness on forging strong trade partnership between his country and Qatar.
It should be mentioned that Qatar and Senegal have previously signed an agreement on economic, trade and technical cooperation, and another one on the protection and encouragement of mutual investment. The two countries had also agreed to create a higher joint committee.

 

The Qatar-Bosnia-Herzegovina joint committee on economic, trading and technical cooperation held its third session on 20 – 21 May 2013 within the context of enhancing ties of cooperation between the two countries and as per provisions of the agreement on economic, trading and technical cooperation which was signed between the two countries in 1998.
HE sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz al Thani, the Minister of Business and Trade chaired the Qatari side to the meeting whereas Bosnia-Herzegovina side was headed by Mr. Mirko Sarovic the Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations.
During their meeting, the two sides reviewed ties of cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, investment and other related areas. They also highly praised the positive development in the economic and trade relations between the two countries.
The two sides agreed as well to take the necessary steps for further development in economic relations and increase in the volume of trade exchange between the two countries including facilitating the flow of goods, services and investment between the two countries.
They reiterated as well their joint desire to intensify and shore up cooperation in the activation of what has been reached agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two sides.
The two sides also agreed to establish a working team to explore and identify specific opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation in the economic field and trade between the two countries, as well as formulating and presenting projects planned to continue to support the potentials.

 
 
HE Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, met on Tuesday 21/05/2013 with each of  Mr. Winston Baldwin Spencer, the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Eugen Carpov and Australian Foreign Minister Mr. Bob Carr.
During the three separate meetings, talks dealt with means of bolstering relations between Qatar and these friendly countries in the economic, trade and investment areas. Other issues of mutual concern were also taken up.

 

 
Under the auspices of HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, a regional workshop for Arab countries members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and countries with observer status opened on Sunday 19/05/2013.
The workshop organized by the Department of International Cooperation and Trade Agreements at the Ministry of Business and Trade in collaboration with the WTO International Trade Training Institute, will be held between 19-23 May in Wyndham Grand Regency hotel..
The workshop comes within the framework of efforts of the Ministry of Business and Trade aimed to organize technical cooperation activities that will support the building of local capacities and deepen the understanding of government employees of the Doha round of WTO negotiations.
About 45 trade negotiations experts from 12 Arab countries are participating in the workshop along with 20 Qatari employees from different government bodies including ministries of business and trade, foreign affairs, economy and finance, energy and industry, environment, the Customs and Ports General Authority, Qatar Petroleum, in addition to representative of the GCC General Secretariat and the Islamic Development Bank.
During the workshop’s five days, four experts from the World Trade Organization will clarify the basic skills of trade negotiations, the good preparation before entering into negotiations, the proper application of such skills to ensure the achievement of the desired objectives of the negotiations, the application of skills on the three main issues of the Doha negotiations agenda.

 

The State of Qatar and the Republic of Hungary, signed on Monday 13/05/2013 an agreement for cooperation in the fields of economy and technological works.
The agreement was signed for Qatar by HE the  Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, and for Hungary by Minister of state for Climate and Energy Mr. Pal Kovacs.
The agreement aims to establish a cooperation framework between the two countries in the related fields such as facilitating trade and cooperation on energy and industry projects. It also included small and medium size enterprises, tourism, agricultural industries, farming, communications and easing transportation procedures between the two countries.
It also calls for encouraging private sector, businessmen and corporates to explore the possibilities of establishing projects in the fields referred to in the agreement.
The signing of the agreement was a part of the Hungarian official’s visit to Doha.
HE the Minister of Business and Trade said that the current volume of trade between the two countries does not reflect the actual friendship between them, adding that the agreement will open the doors for genuine cooperation in different areas.

In the context of the permanent efforts made by the Ministry of Business and Trade, represented by the Consumer Protection Department, to monitor the markets and the economic activities in the State, in order to ensure the consumer profit, the CP department has revealed today a number of violations committed during the month of April 2013. The violations that have been amounted to 80 violations include:

As for the complaints received by the Consumer Protection Department, and which have been amounted to 413 complaints, they have been dealt with and transferred to the responsible competent departments for further action.

 
The Ministry of Business and Trade organizes the Fourth Conference on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) during the period from 28 to 29 May, under the title ‘deepening of responsible practices in the business community’, at Four Seasons Hotel – Doha.
HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani said the ministry continues to host this conference in order to stimulate and deepen the culture of social responsibility in the business sector in Qatar and to promote best practices in the business community in the country.
HE the Minister stressed on the importance of private sector’s role in social responsibility and in the creation and development of initiatives, programs and activities that can enhance the concept of corporate social responsibility in Qatar. He also underlined the need for cooperation and joint efforts to educate businesses about corporate social responsibility and how to use them to support economic growth and sustainable development.
The conference will discuss a number of topics, including the role of governments in implementing policies and programs of corporate social responsibility
Establishing a local CSR network in Qatar; applying the principles of social responsibility in the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030; how to benefit from the practices and experiences of international companies in the field of CSR; the obligations of companies to the community as defined by international organizations; and Corporate Social Responsibility as defined by the ISO 26000. 
The Fourth CSR conference will attract a number of local, regional and international expert speakers on CSR as well as organizations working in this field.
 

 

HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade, led the Qatari delegation at the meeting of trade ministers held at the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the Cooperation Council for Arab States, in Riyadh, on Wednesday 08/05/2013.
The trade ministers discussed many important topics concerning the future of the business and investment in the GCC countries in order to move forward in achieving the goals and objectives of the council of constructive cooperation for the benefit of all member states.
During the meeting, the ministers also decided to approve the establishment of the joint exhibition of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the mandate of the General Secretariat to take all the necessary arrangements.
They also approved the law concerning anti-fraud uniform commercial code of GCC to be submitted to the supreme council for adoption as a mandatory law uniformly to all GCC countries.
The meeting also agreed on what is stated in the note by the Secretariat on the minutes of the meetings of the WTO committee for the GCC countries at its three meetings held recently about modifying the list of goods included in the information technology and trade facilitation, and the trade policy review of the GCC countries, and the subject of trade preferences, and the law of dumping trade, and dispute related topics.
With regard to the protection of Gulf investments in other countries, the ministers decided to configure a working group to study the issue and submit its recommendations thereon.
With regard to the knowledge economy and discuss the possibility to benefit from the exchange of experiences available to the member states in this regard, it has been assigned to the general secretariat to provide the available plans and strategies in this regard to the working group.
Sheikh Jassim expressed his satisfaction with the meeting outcomes, stressing that it will give a strong impetus to efforts to move forward in achieving the goals that meet the interests of GCC.

 

 

 
 
 
During routine inspection raids by CPD officials, the Consumer Protection Department of the Ministry of Business and Trade has booked three big shops dealing on electronic and electric goods, clothes and accessories for duping customers by offering false promotional sales.
The shops which were spotted out have been booked for violating Ministerial Order No 5 of 1984 with respect to selling through promotions and discounts.
In addition, some other shops were also found to be misleading people and violating Law No 8 of 2008 with respect to consumer protection.
All the offending shops had their licenses cancelled according to the law and regulations for the rest of the promotion period.
Based on the above, the CPD stresses the need for companies and businesses operating in the country to respect the laws and regulations regarding sales and promotions, noting that it would not tolerate violations of the law.
It also calls on suppliers to remain committed to credibility and transparency while offering goods so that there will be trust between them and their clients for the promotion of the right business climate in the country.

Under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, HE Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani inaugurated the 10th Project Qatar Exhibition. A number of ranking officials attended the opening ceremony of the event.
 HE the Minister toured the various pavilions of the exhibition and praised the good organization and the level of representation of the exhibition. Some 50 countries and more than 2100 companies participated in the 10th edition of Project Qatar. The exhibition is held in 62000 square meters.
HE the Minister said that the increase in the number of exhibitors each year reflected the status of the Qatari economy, which relies on the integration of the public and private sectors. 
HE also commended the progress made by the private sector in the past few years, particularly after it gained experience by working with companies of national expertise. 

 
Out of the keenness of the Ministry of Business and Trade on the health condition and safety of the consumers and to ensure their rights for good services according to the set standards and specifications, the Ministry of Business and Trade has recommended the withdrawing of the Corn Flakes products now on sale in the markets.
The ministry has earlier received information about rotten smell and rancid in the corn flakes products being on sale in the Qatari markets and immediately it had withdrawn a number of these samples of different dates and sent them to the central labs. of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) for analysis.
And as a result of the analysis conducted on the aforesaid product in light of a complaint against it, the ministry proved the existence of ‘rancid’ in some samples, and accordingly the ministry withdrew these products for being invalid and harmful to human consumption.
Other analyses revealed that a number of other samples contain high degree of peroxide substance , a clear-cut evidence of the existence of rancid in these products, thus their lack of quality and validity to be left available for human consumption.
Then the ministry has warned the sole agency of the aforesaid trade mark to hurry up withdrawing these products from the markets as per the provisions of the Article No. (14) of Law No. (8) for the year 2008, on consumer protection, which stipulates that ” the supplier is obliged to notify Consumer Protection Department and consumers of any case related to finding manufacturing defect or any other defect that may cause damage or endanger consumers. It shall also be committed to recall all faulty commodities and to announce so immediately”.

 
Within the context of expanding and enhancing ties of friendship and cooperation existing between Qatar and Vietnam and in implementation of the directives of HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani and President Truong Tan Sang of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and according to the provisions of the agreement signed between the two countries in 2007 on economic, trade and technical cooperation, the Qatari-Vietnamese joint committee for economic, trade and technical cooperation held a number of meetings during 22 and 23 April 2013.
HE Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdulaziz Al Thani , the Minister of Business and Trade led the Qatari side to these meetings whereas the Vietnamese Minister of Labour, War Invalids and Social welfare Pham Thi Hai Chuyen.
Qatar and Vietnam agreed to take necessary measures for developing further economic ties and shore up trade exchange between them via smoothing and facilitating the flux of commodities, services and investment between the two countries and intensifying joint cooperation to revitalize the agreements and memoranda of understanding reached in the fields of oil, gas, aviation, laborers, the joint businessmen council, food security, agriculture, banking and training.
At the end of the joint committee meetings, the two sides welcomed the accord they concluded on starting consultations to sign agreements on tourism and culture cooperation.
They also agreed to hold the second session of the Qatari-Vietnamese joint committee on economic, trade and technical cooperation in Vietnam in 2015.

 

HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met on Monday 22/04/2013 with Vietnamese minister of Labor, War Invalids and Social Welfare, HE Mrs. Pham Thi Hai Chuyen, on the side line of the meeting of the Qatari-Vietnamese Joint Commission for Economic, Trade and Technical Cooperation.
During the meeting, they discussed topics related to the joint commission’s work in addition to several issues of mutual interest.
The State of Qatar and the Republic of Vietnam are bound by several trade agreements in the economic, trade and investment fields, in addition to an agreement on the protection and encouragement of investments.
The value of Qatar’s exports to Vietnam was amounted to about QAR 737 million in 2012, while the value of imports from Vietnam in 2012 was amounted to QAR 416.4 million,

 

 
HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met on Monday 22/04/2013 with HE Mrs. Ekaterina Zaharieva, Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Regional Development and Public Works, in the presence of HE Mr. Assen Vassiliev Bulgarian Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism.
During the meeting, they discussed topics of mutual interest, especially those related to the areas of business and trade, and the ways of enhancing the bilateral relations in these fields.
The State of Qatar and the Republic of Bulgaria are bound by several agreements among them is the Agreement on Economic, Trade and Technical Cooperation, in addition to an agreement on the protection and encouragement of investments.
The value of Qatar’s exports to Bulgaria was amounted to about QAR 8.2 million, while the value of imports from Bulgaria was amounted to QAR 39 million, including ceramic, furniture, lighting and prefabricated buildings.

 

 
 
The State of Qatar and the Republic of the Maldives Signed on Monday 15/04/2013 an agreement on economic, trade and technical cooperation. The Agreement was signed for the State of Qatar by HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdul-Aziz Al Thani, and for the Republic of the Maldives by the Minister of Economic Development Ahmed Mohamed.
The cited agreement aims to establish a framework of cooperation between the two countries, and facilitate transport and construction on the basis of equality and mutual benefits. It also helps to facilitate cooperation in the fields of trade, industry, energy and tourism in addition to small and medium-scale enterprises and communication, besides encouraging private sector and businessmen to explore the prospects of establishing project in the fields referred to in the agreement.
HE the Minister of Businesses and Trade said that the actual volume of trade between the two countries does not reflect the reality and depth of the existing relations between the two countries, adding that the agreement signed today will open genuine opportunities for establishing real projects within the fields of cooperation.
It should be noted that the Maldivian Economic development Minister is currently visiting Doha to discuss aspects of economic, trade and investment cooperation between Qatar and the Maldives.

 
 
The International Cooperation and Trade Agreements Department at the Ministry of Business and Trade organizes in collaboration with the World Trade Organization, a local seminar and workshop for government and private-sector officials at the ministry building during the period 16 – 18 April 2013.
The seminar comes within the framework of the technical support that the ministry seeks to provide for the government and private- sector employees in order to raise their awareness of the WTO conventions and the Global Trading System.
About (30) of government and private-sector officials are participating in the workshop related to “the General Agreement on Trade in Services”, namely from the Ministry of Business and Trade, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Central Bank, Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology, Qatar Petroleum, Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Company.
During the seminar, WTO experts will clarify issues related to the General Agreement on Trade in Services, which is one of the WTO agreements, in addition to the negotiations related to the organization and the ways of regional integration in terms of trade in services, with a special focus on some of the service sectors of importance to the State of Qatar.
Many practical and interactive exercises will take place during the workshop in collaboration between the WTO experts and the participants in the seminar.

HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani said  that the practice of commercial activities in the State of Qatar will witness a big qualitative leap during the coming period following the Cabinet’s approval last Wednesday 10/04/2013 of  draft laws of the legal commercial register and commercial stores and similar industrial shops,  prepared by the Ministry’s  Legal Committee.
Sheikh Jassim said the two  draft laws were part of the completion of the ministry’s plan aimed to update legislations, simplify and facilitate procedures for registration and licensing of all commercial and industrial shops, and to attract foreign investment.
HE the Minister of Business and Trade stressed that the abovementioned draft laws took into account the international standards on the basis of which classification of countries is made, in terms of simplifying the starting and doing of business, so as to contribute to raising the rating of Qatar, and to meet the requirements of the political, economic and social changes to realize Qatar National Vision 2030.
HE the Minister of Business and Trade pointed out that the two draft laws contain many privileges for those who want the practice commercial activities, including the ministry’s granting of commercial registration and business license on the same day of submitting the application, provided the fulfillment of all necessary documents and data, saying this will facilitate getting commercial licenses in the state at the earliest time and simplify and facilitate the licensing procedures for opening and managing stores and for attracting capital.
HE explained that the integration of street vendors law into the shops law aims to tighten controls on street vendors by  attaching them to  one of the stores which are subject to the provisions of this law.
“We have been keen, when preparing the new law, on facilitating the exercise of commercial activities through websites according to specific controls and this in turn will help Qatari youth to exercise electronic commerce so as to enhance the state’s intention to move to  a knowledge-based economy,” HE the Minister of Business and Trade said.
HE added that the registration of company subsidiaries will not give them a  legal personality separate from the parent company, noting that the Ministry of Business and Trade will give a six-month period  for the branches established companies to adjust their positions according to the provisions of this law.
 

 
HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met on Sunday morning, 14/04/2013, with Mexico’s Former Secretary of Economy Herminio Blanco, who was accompanied by the Mexican Deputy Foreign Minister and Mexican President’s Special Envoy, Lourdes Aranda Bezaury.
During the meeting they exchanged views and discussed aspects of cooperation between the two countries, especially in the economic and trade related areas, in addition to other topics of mutual interest.
The volume of trade exchange between the two countries in 2012 reached QAR 1.897 billion, while  Qatari exports to Mexico valued QAR 1.091 billion and were mainly mineral fuels, lubricants and distilled products. The value of the Qatari imports from Mexico was about QRS 806 million mainly machinery and vehicles.

The Ministry of Business and Trade, and through its inspection campaigns made by the Consumer Protection Department to monitor the activities of the market to ensure its compliance with the laws and regulations, had issued the decision of the administrative closure of (2) shops for violating the provisions of Law No. (8) of 2008 on consumer protection.
 
The closed shops are:

 

Within the framework of the role of the Ministry of Business and Trade in the implementation of the consumer protection laws, the consumer protection department continues its regular inspections to ensure that the suppliers and local traders adhere strictly to the specifications set by the department concerned for the products and services offered by them.
During a routine inspection by the sleuths of the department, the Consumer Protection Department (CPD) at the Ministry of Business and Trade booked 17 shops for selling expired tires in the Industrial Area and seized a large number of the tires.
The shops have been booked under Article 6 of Law No (8) of 2008, which stipulates that: “offering, presenting, promoting or advertising any damaged or rotten merchandises shall be prohibited. The merchandise is considered as damaged or rotten if it is not complied with decided standards or not valid for use or expired”.
Besides, Article 13 of CP laws states that suppliers should comply with health safety and security specifications determined by law.
The department considers items fraudulent if they do not conform to the standards prescribed or are being sold after their expiry dates, and based on that, the CPD has seized the tires to complete the legal procedures against the violators.
The Director of Consumer Protection Department Sheikh Jassim bin Jabor al Thani said that “Companies and businesses in the Qatari market must ensure that the goods and services offered by them to the consumer meet the health and safety norms”.
Sheikh Jassim also called upon all consumers to pay specific attention to the date of production of tires purchased by them, adding that “the consumers need to be sure of the production date of the tyre through the sealed four numbers on the frame. The two digits on the right indicate the year of production, while the digits on the left show the month. These figures are indicative of the expiry of the tires as the life of tires of cars, buses and light trucks must not exceed 24 months from the date of production whereas the life of heavy truck tires expire after 30 months of production”.

HE Mr. Sultan Bin Rashid Al Khater – Undersecretary of the Ministry of Business and Trade offered on Saturday evening 06/04/2013 at the ministry’s pavilion in the Career Fair, the employment letters for a number of applicants who were successfully hired in the various departments of the ministry.
HE Al Khater said that the priorities of the Ministry leaned towards hiring people with disabilities in order to integrate them into the society and benefit from their skills in building the nation through their work in ministries and state agencies.
The undersecretary said that the Ministry offered 50 jobs this year and hired 13 applicants from 580 ones in the final day of the Career Fair.
HE Mr. / Sultan Bin Rashed Al Khater affirmed that development and prosperity of any country is only made by its qualified national skills, adding that the Ministry of Business and Trade has always sought to attract those competencies to take advantage of them to achieve strategic objectives and thereby accelerate development in the country.
The occasion was attended by Mr. / Abdullah Al Mansouri, Executive Director of the Qatar Career Fair and Mr. / Khalid Shuaibi, person in charge of hiring people with disabilities, in addition to a number of directors of the various departments of the ministry.
It should be noted that the Ministry of Business and Trade revealed on the first day of the fair the preparation of the first pilot edition of law No. (25) for 2005 on the commercial registration printed in Braille.

In the context of the permanent efforts made by the Ministry of Business and Trade, represented by the Consumer Protection Department, to monitor the markets and the economic activities in the State, in order to ensure the consumer profit, the CP department has revealed today a number of violations committed during the month of March 2013. The violations that have been amounted to 62 violations include:

As for the complaints received by the Consumer Protection Department, and which have been amounted to 389 complaints, they have been dealt with and transferred to the responsible competent departments for further action.

 
The Ministry of Business and Trade took part in Qatar Career Fair 2013 inaugurated on Monday, April 1st 2013 by HH the Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Qatar National Convention Center, under the slogan “Employ the Present for the Future”.
HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Business and Trade Mr. Sultan bin Rashid Al Khater stated that the Ministry’s participation comes with the support and follow-up and attention of His Excellency Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade, within the ministry’s goal to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030 which focuses on human and social development and investment in knowledge.
HE pointed out that the Ministry would seek through its participation this year to prioritize people with special needs by employing them in the Ministry to ensure their active role in the society.
He added that the employment policy pursued by the Ministry aimed at human capacity building and training, adding that the Ministry took into account the link between these policies and the 2011/2016 national development strategy.
HE the Undersecretary underlined the Ministry’s commitment to support and promote Qatarization policy.
The MBT pavilion which will take place in the governmental agencies’ section, pearl category No. G.PO2, has been equipped with laptops, employment forms and different-sized screens showing film about the ministry. It should be noted that cooperation was made in this context with the Al Noor Institute for the Blind to provide special employment applications for blinds to make it easy for applicants to fill out and submit the forms.
On the first day of the Fair, the Ministry unveiled the first pilot edition of law No. (25) for 2005 on the commercial registration printed in Braille.
 

During a periodic inspection made by the consumer protection department at the Ministry of Business and Trade, in line with its aim to protect the consumers and prevent the entry of defective and counterfeit goods in the market,
the CPD has initiated action against a shop selling spurious engine oil. The shop was caught filling containers of a well-known oil company with oil of unknown make, which constitutes a violation ofArticle No. (7) of the Act No. (8) for the year 2008, on consumer protection, which stipulates that :
“Provider, once offering any merchandise for circulation, shall be obliged to state on its cover or packing clearly the merchandise’s type, nature, ingredients and all relevant data as per the executive regulation of this Law.
If the use of this merchandise results in a danger, the provider should warn about that clearly.
The provider shall be prohibited to specify, advertise or offer the merchandise with false or misleading data”.
Youssef Saad al-Suwaidi, head of the Commercial Fraud section at the CPD said that these campaigns are aimed at protecting the consumer’s right to obtain original goods.
For his side, Sheikh Jassim Bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of Consumer Protection at the Ministry of Business and Trade stated that all companies operating in the state must make sure that the merchandise or the service provided to the consumer is completely complied with the declared adopted standards.

 
 
 
The Ministry of Business and Trade has concluded the events that were organizedin the occasion of the eighth GCC Consumer Protection Weekwhich began in the first week of March, in conjunction with the rest of the GCC countries, under the slogan ” Consumer Protection: Rights and Duties “.
 
GCC Week Exhibition
In an effort to protect the consumers from commercial frauds, the Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Business and Trade has organized an exhibition cum workshop at Landmark mall to distinguish between counterfeit and original goods.
The department displayed various forms of counterfeit and adulterated items during the exhibition, making the consumers aware about such products.The exhibition also included photographs of seizures and irregularities, in addition to presentations that help the consumers identifying the rights and duties of each of the trader and consumer, in addition to the department’s role in protecting them from commercial frauds.
 
Children Corner
A special children corner was also organized on the sidelines of the exhibition to make children aware about their rights as consumers. Leaflets, brochures and souvenirs were distributed on the occasion.
Participants at the programme were enlightened about methods of detecting fake products by presenting awareness material using modern techniques.
 
Special Offers
It should be mentioned that sales and special offers were also announced in different shopping malls in the country in the occasion of the 8th GCC Week, in cooperation with the CPD.
 
The aim of organizing such events is to raise awareness and educate the local and Gulf consumers about their rights and duties and to identify methods of sound procurement methods and use of services and knowledge of laws and regulations that safeguard their rights as consumers.

 
 
 
           with the Mexican Ambassador                                           with the Brazilian Ambassaor
 
HE Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdul Aziz Al Thani, Minister of Business And Trade met Monday with Mexican Ambassador accredited to the State of Qatar Luis Alberto.
During the meeting, they discussed facets of bilateral cooperation in the investment, economic and trade fields. The Mexican Ambassador conveyed to HE the Minister a message from the Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Jose Kuribrena on cooperation inside international trade organizations.
HE the Minister also met with a delegation from the Federative Republic of Brazil led by permanent representative of Brazil to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Roberto Azevedo.
Azevedo handed over a message from Brazilian Minister of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade Fernando Pimentel to HE the Minister pertaining to facets of cooperation in investment and trade fields.

 
 
Under the auspices of HE Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdul Aziz Al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade, and in the presence of a number of Qatar Chamber and Qatar Businessmen Association representatives, and a large number of board members of public shareholding companies, the Ministry of Business and Trade,in association with Barwa Capital UK, launched yesterday, Monday 25/03/2013, an electronic system to manage the general assemblies and boards of directors of public and private companies in the country. The e-platform – the latest of its kind and a first time application for the region – is designed to facilitate voting and decision-making as well as the election of boards of directors live online .
During the launch ceremony, The Department of Companies Control at  the ministry, in addition toBarwa officials, held a demonstration of the new system.
HE Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdul Aziz Al Thani, minister of business and trade, thanked Barwa and theCompanies Control Department’s management control wing for developing the systems to improve safety applications and contributing to boosting trade and business environment, affirming that the application of new system should be preceded by sufficient trials to ensure smooth flow and safety procedures.
According to HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz al-Thani, the ministry is currently redrafting all legislative tools and organizational tasks associated with improving the business environment in the state and in accordance with the role of the ministry in realizing the Qatar National Vision 2030 . “The Ministry of Business and Trade will support and adopt all initiatives to achieve this vision of  sustainable Qatar by 2030,” he said.
The new draft law for commercial companies that is undergoing final touches contains a specific article that mandates to harness the advancement in technology to enhance the country’s business environment. It allows the use of hi-tech  systems, which is an important qualitative leap for holding Ordinary General Assembly Meetings. “This e-system is in line with this decision”, HE said.
Speaking on the occasion, Barwa Real Estate Company CEO Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Subaie said that the new technology will ease voting and decision-making process and will also help to facilitate election of boards of directors. The device can be used for voting and will allow the board members and company shareholders to express their opinions online.
Barwa Real Estate CEO said that Barwa would use the new system at its next general assembly scheduled for next month.
Salem bin Salem al-Manaei, assistant director of Companies Control Department, said that, in addition to voting, the electronic system will be also used to provide shareholders the ability to record the number of their shares through a smart card  which will be specific for each shareholder.
“The system also helps to organize the voting process with precision and organize panel discussions and interventions, extracting statistical reports and supporting documents of the General Assembly,” Al Manaei said adding that “the new draft law for commercial companies allows the use of hi-tech systems, which is an important qualitative leap for holding Ordinary General Assembly Meetings. It will enable companies to comply with the legal regulations.”

 
 
 
In light of the decision No. 32 for 2013 issued by the State Cabinet to set up a committee to control the stock and prices of the construction materials including cement, steel, coarse and fine sand, limestone, bitumen and crushed stones, a committee was set up last year for this purpose and had closely coordinated with various government agencies, mainly the Qatar Statistics Authority, 2022 Qatar Committee and the Central Planning Office at the Ministry of Environment.
The committee’s role was to prepare the index which will monitor pricing and availability of basic construction materials on a monthly basis and issue an alert in advance in case of a sudden shortage of any building material, and ask importers to take immediate steps to meet the shortfall.
In a press conference following its third meeting, the committee stated that it will launch a monthly price index of primary construction materials with the Qatar Statistics Authority, stating that the price index will record all the price fluctuations of materials like cement, steel, limestone and bitumen among other materials. The committee will also estimate the amounts required of these materials up until 2022. Another duty of the committee will be making proposition regarding controlling inflation of these materials.
The committee pointed out that the index will be made available on its mobile application for smartphone users in the near future.
HE Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdul Aziz Al Thani said that launching a price index is crucial because it was a vital tool to warn of inflation. HE the Minister said that the work of the committee in monitoring prices will require strong work with other state departments. The price index will enable those work on major projects having a strategic supply of those materials.
First Report on Construction Materials Prices

 
HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade, met on Sunday morning 17/03/2013, with Minister of Economic Development of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. Shahin Mustafayev and his accompanying delegation.
During the meeting they exchanged views and discussed aspects of cooperation between the two friendly countries and the ways of enhancing the bilateral relations, in addition to  trade relations and several issues of common interest.
It should be noted that the volume of trade exchange between the two countries had been amounted to more than  QAR 11 million in 2011, and the value of Qatari exports, mostly inorganic chemical products, were estimated at more than QAR 10 million while Qatari imports from Azerbaijan were valued at nearly  QAR 1.1 million.
The two countries are linked by a number of trade agreements including an  economic, trade cooperation and technical cooperation agreement, an agreement on  the protection and encouragement  of mutual investments, an air transport agreement and an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion.
 

 
 
 
HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade, and visiting French trade minister Nicole Bricq, presided on Tuesday 12/03/2013 over the formal launch of the e-services of the Ministry of Business and Trade, in the presence of a French business delegation, members of the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and several key Qatari businessmen.
Highlighting the features of the new smart applications, the Minister said that the public would now have easy access to information on daily prices of commodities and a better way to register complaints. He added that the ministry prepared also to upgrade it in the next quarter to include in it other services of the ministry: “More innovations will be introduced within the next quarter,” he said.
HE stated that the e-service will prove an effective means of communication between the people and the ministry, and will be a transparent system that seeks to boost competition and offer better services.
HE added that the ministry was concerned about consumers, their rights, complaints and comments, and that the e-service would also help traders improve their operations and services.
For her side, Mrs. Meshael Al Hammadi, director of information systems at the ministry, stated that there is a trained team at the CPD to deal with consumer complaints received through the e-service, download them and process them for action.
Using smartphones, consumers can now access an innovative e-service of the trade ministry in both Arabic and English languages, to compare prices of different items of daily use, including foodstuff, at various shopping complexes and instantly lodge a complaint with the consumer rights’ watchdog if they discover any violation.
Complainants can also click photographs of items with their phones if they are overpriced or past their expiry date, or if any other violation is detected, and forward the images to the Consumer Protection Department (CPD) of the trade ministry to support their complaint and seek punitive action. Complaints can be lodged in Arabic or English by citizens as well as expatriates. 

In the context of the permanent efforts made by the Ministry of Business and Trade, represented by the Consumer Protection Department, to monitor the markets and the economic activities in the State, in order to ensure the consumer profit, the CP department has revealed today a number of violations committed during the month of February 2013. The violations that have been amounted to 102 violations include:
 

 

As for the complaints received by the Consumer Protection Department, and which have been amounted to 299 complaints, they have been dealt with and transferred to the responsible competent departments.

 

 
Minister of Business and Trade HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met on Tuesday 12/03/2013 with French Minister for Foreign Trade Nicole Bricq  and her accompanying delegation.
A working luncheon was held in honor of the French Minister and the accompanying delegation attended by a number of Qatari and French businessmen. A number of workshops were also held to discuss the trade relations between the two countries, and the bilateral trade between the two countries which has been amounted to more than QR 9.1 billion in 2011.
It is to be noted that the value of Qatari exports to France is estimated at QR 6.4 billion  led by distillation products and mineral fuels, while imports amounted to around QR2.7 billion.
Qatar and France were linked with a number trade agreements such as economic and trade cooperation and technical agreements  and another one to protect and encourage joint investments.
Several issues of mutual interest  and ways of enhancing them, were also discussed during the meeting.

 
HE Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met on Sunday 10/03/2013 with Bosnia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Zlatko Lagumdzija , who is currently visiting the country.
During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations  and ways of enhancing them, besides  a number of issues of mutual interest. It should be mentioned that the government of the State of Qatar and Bosnia and Herzegovina have previously signed an Agreement on Economic, Commercial and Technical Cooperation, in addition to the Investment Promotion and Protection agreement.

Within the framework of the participation of the State of Qatar in the activities of the Gulf Consumer Protection Week that begins in the first of March of each year, the Ministry of Business and Trade organized this year a number of events and activities under the supervision and regulation of the Consumer Protection Department, in celebration of the eighth GCC Consumer Protection Week, held this year, in conjunction with the rest of the GCC countries, under the slogan ” Consumer Protection: Rights and Duties”.
HE Sheikh/ Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Business and Trade, inaugurated the eighth Gulf Week Exhibition at Landmark mall, as an announcement of the launch of the related events that include an exhibition to distinguish between original and counterfeit goods, a photographs exhibition of seizures and irregularities, children’s corner with a guide “Morshed”, lectures, educational visits to schools, in addition to the distribution of brochures, awareness booklets and souvenirs.
It should be noted that coordination was made by the ministry with malls and shops operating in the country for the announcement of special promotions to mark the occasion, especially that such events and programs aim to inform and educate the consumer about his rights and duties as well as the proper ways and positive habits of buying, such as keeping the purchase invoice and making sure of the warranty validity and the right to benefit from the after-sales services in the best way. These events aim also to educate the consumer about the ways of detecting and distinguishing between original, counterfeit and fake goods, thing that helps to consolidate the culture of consumer awareness among the Qatari and Gulf community.
The exhibition attracted many visitors at Landmark, who expressed their appreciation and admiration of the contents of the exhibition and the souvenirs provided to them, as well as the valuable information gained from visiting the exhibition.
The visitors were keen to ask the CPD representatives about the proper ways of buying, noting that most of the questions were centered on the detection methods of the counterfeit goods and the ways to complain to the department. They emphasized that the department spares no effort in receiving and resolving all the problems faced by the consumers according to the related laws and regulations.
The exhibition and associated activities will be held until March 15. The Consumer Protection Department calls the public to visit the exhibition at Landmark and have a look on the Department’s activities organized for the 8th GCC Consumer Protection Week.

 
The Ministry of Business and Trade launched on Monday 04/03/2013 at St. Regis- Doha hotel, the “Qatar Business & Trade 2012” report, in the presence of a number of officials and managers from different government and private agencies, in addition to entrepreneurs and businessmen interested in the trade and economy sectors.
HE Sheikh Jassim Bin Abdul Aziz Al Thani, Minister of Business and Trade said that the report provides an overview of the evolution of the Qatari economy over the past three decades and progress it has made towards meeting the strategic objectives of Qatar.
He added that this study report would provide a context to economic stakeholders and decision-makers with information and statistical data that will facilitate the way forward on our path to growth and sustainable development.
A copy of the report in its Arabic and English versions was posted on the ministry’s website, noting that this report will be updated and published by MBT in a yearly basis. 

 

 
HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met on Monday 04/03/2013 with HE Mr. Alexander Stubb Finland’s Minister for European Affairs and Foreign Trade.
During the meeting they exchanged views and discussed aspects of cooperation between the two countries, especially in economic and trade fields as well a number of issues of common concern.
It should be mentioned that the State of Qatar and the Republic of Finland have earlier signed an agreement to encourage and protect mutual investments, in addition to another agreement on economic, trade and technical cooperation.
The volume of trade exchange between the two countries reached in 2011 about QR 260 million while the value of Qatari exports to Finland totaled QR 44.5 million with  the value of imports for the same period totaling QR 216 million.

 
HE the Minister of Business and Trade Sheikh Jassim bin Abdul Aziz Al Thani has participated in the ceremony organized by Qatar Telecom company to unveil its new brand (Ooredoo) in Barcelona on the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress.
HE lauded the success achieved by Ooredoo company locally and globally, terming Qatar Telecom’s launch of its unified identity as a milestone in the history of the company, saying it will bring more successes.
HE added that the success of Qatari companies would have positive impact on the Qatari economy, which is one the fastest growing economies of the world.
HE Minister of Business and Trade congratulated HE Ooredoo Chairman Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Saud Al Thani and his team on their successes and urged them to continue to further enhance the performance of Qatar Telecom.

 
HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Minister of Business Trade, and QU President Prof. Sheikha Abdulla Al Misnad patronized, on Wednesday 20/02/2013 at the ministry’s headquarters, over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Business and Trade and Qatar University represented by the College of Business and Economics.
The signed MoU aims to activate a number of aspects of bilateral cooperation, especially in regards to:
1 – Activating the exchange of experiences between the two parties. Based on that MoU, Qatar University will provide the ministry with data on the expertise of the faculty members at the university, thing that contributes to the researches on best practices in the areas of business policies and builds business databases to enable students to conduct related researches.
2 – Organizing workshops and joint conferences that serve the local and regional business community.
HE Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz bin Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani stressed the significance of the MoU and to start a research partnership between government and academic agencies in order to increase the cognitive and technical depth to deal with the developments and challenges of operational and regulatory work in government agencies.
For her part, Prof. Sheikha Abdulla Al Misnad hailed the cooperation between QU and the Ministry of Business and Trade, which helps advance the growth of the country and keep pace with its vision and ambitions. She added that the role of the university is not limited to the development of a promising Qatari generation, but goes beyond that to include cooperation with all state institutions through active participation in providing high-quality research and technical consultation in line with the implementation the Qatar National Vision 2030.

 

 
HE SheikhJassim bin Abdulazizal-Thani, Minister of Business and Trade,paid an inspectiontour of the new port project inMessaieed, yesterday Tuesday 19/02/2013.HE was accompanied by a number of high-ranked officials among them are HE Sheikh Ali Bin Jassim, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Qatar Navigation Company, and HE Mr. Abdul Aziz Al-Nueimi, President of the Steering Committee of thePort Project, in addition to Mr. Ahmad Al-Mass, General Manager of Qatar Ports Management Company.
The minister was briefed onthe progress made at the projectand the steps being taken tocomplete it by 2016.The steering committee of theport project also presented anexplanation on the policy of procurement,supply and contractsin the port. The minister toured the site and got acquainted with latest developments.
Then Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani presided over a meeting of the membersof the team in charge of the operational plan of the port.They discussed the ad-hoc strategy for an efficient operation mechanismbased on global practices aimed at the best and most efficient exploitationof the port’s capacity.
The minister affirmed that the project represents a port of great importanceas it will support the growth of the local economy and competitivedomestic trade and trade with neighboring countries.He urged all parties concerned to provide support to ensure completionof the project in a way that reflect progress already achieved and witnessedin all areas in Qatar.
 

The high-level legal committee set up by the Ministry of Business and Trade submitted the amended draft law to Minister H E Sheikh Jassim bin Abdul- Aziz Al Thani yesterday, Monday 18/02/2013.
 
The legal committee briefed HE the Minister on the steps taken into consideration while drafting the law as well as its consultations with various institutions.
 
The new draft law was a result of a full year’s work that involved cooperating with other state entities, as the existing company law is eight years old and the ministry wanted to come out with a fresh law of international standards.
 
There has been joint work with the Ministry’s technical departments and an international law firm to prepare a preliminary draft. A high-level legal committee was created from different entities of the country including the Ministry of Business and Trade, Cabinet General Secretariat, Qatar Financial Markets Authority, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Qatar Central Bank, the Emiri Diwan and experts from other organizations.
 
As the second draft of the law was finalized, it was open for all interested parties and individuals in the country to submit their comments and suggestions. Members of Qatar University, Qatar Chambers and Qatari Lawyers Society participated at this stage, which was conducted last month. Qatar Chambers held a forum to discuss the law at its headquarters on January 29.
 
During this period, the Ministry received 21 e-mails on its website with related remarks. It also received eight written messages, in addition to QC remarks submitted by businessmen during the said forum.
 
For his part, HE the Minister expressed his delight at the progress made so far for developing a new law for commercial companies to reflect the state’s aspirations for economic development.
 
HE added that the new draft law will help in increasing competitiveness in Qatar, and in improving the business cycle. It will also eliminate some of the red tape required for establishing a new commercial company, HE the Minister said. The law also meets the economic and social changes required by Qatar National Vision 2030, as it had taken into consideration necessary international standards.
 
Sheikh Jassim said the Ministry would proceed with the necessary legalities to issue the new law according to the stipulated legal course in the country. He appreciated the efforts of all who had taken part in reviewing the draft of the law.

 
Out of the ministry’s role to protect the consumer’s rights and fight against all defected and counterfeit goods that do not comply with the standard specifications, and out of the ministry’s keenness to oblige all suppliers to comply with the health and safety conditions through all the products and services offered to the consumer,
The Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Business and Trade organized several inspection campaigns on shops selling blankets, based on received information, and seized a number of shops selling counterfeit blankets that do not conform to the standard specifications, and that hold notation on the cover stating that the country of origin is (Korea), while the true country of origin of the commodity is (China), which is considered a violation of the provisions of Article No. (7) of Law No. (8) for the year 2008, on consumer protection, which stipulates that:
“Provider, once offering any merchandise for circulation, shall be obliged to state on its cover or packing clearly the merchandise’s type, nature, ingredients and all relevant data as per the executive regulation of this Law. If the use of this merchandise results in a danger, the provider should warn about that clearly”.
AndArticle No. (13) of the same law, which states that:
“Provider shall warrant that the merchandise or the service provided to the consumer shall be complied with the declared adopted standards. They shall be also accountable for incompliance with the conditions relating to public health and safety”.
An official source in the CPD affirmed that department has reached the distributor of such blankets who admitted the crime, adding that penalties were issued to all shops where these products were captured.
He also stressed that the Consumer Protection Department will spare no effort in working to detect fake and counterfeit products that do not conform to the standards through its inspection campaigns organized on all commercial activities.

 
Qatar Shooting and Archery Federation
(Skeet – Trap – Double Trap – Air Gun – Air Rifle
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

Qatar Equestrian Federation
 

 

 

 

 
 
Football at Al Garraffa Club
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Out of the ministry’s role to protect the consumer’s rights and fight against all defected and counterfeit goods that do not comply with the standard specifications, and out of the ministry’s keenness to oblige all suppliers to comply with the health and safety conditions through all the products and services offered to the consumer,
 
The Consumer Protection Department (CPD) seized about 50,000 substandard electrical products including electric cables, exhaust fans, circuit breakers and electric boards, among many other items, in a major crackdown on a warehouse in the Industrial Area.
 
The substandard and counterfeit products were found at a warehouse in the Industrial Area belonging to a leading company, during a raid conducted by the CPD.
 
CPD director Sheikh Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani said the products were confiscated because they didn’t meet Qatari standards and specifications. Necessary legal action will be taken against such violations of the law, he added.
 
“We will not spare any efforts to stop such substandard products entering the local market, because they pose a serious threat to public health and safety,” said Al Thani.
 
He urged buyers to ensure the quality of electrical products and other goods by looking at the contents of packages and the product specifications.
 
He also urged people to keep the purchase bills with them, to be used as proof if any defects are found in the products at a later stage. 

Out of the keenness of the Ministry of Business and Trade to ensure the application of laws and decisions related to consumer protection, the Consumer Protection Department in the ministry continues its inspections to ensure the commitment of the suppliers to the conditions and specifications that should be respected in the goods and products offered in the market and the commercial complexes.
A number of inspections were made by the CPD inspectors on shops selling computers and accessories, and had resulted in the seizure of a number of counterfeit inks that consists of an imitation of registered trademarks sold as original.
Two trading shops were subject to penalties and were transferred to the security agencies pursuant to Article No. (7) of the Act No. (8) for the year 2008, on consumer protection, which stipulates that :
“Provider, once offering any merchandise for circulation, shall be obliged to state on its cover or packing clearly the merchandise’s type, nature, ingredients and all relevant data as per the executive regulation of this Law.
If the use of this merchandise results in a danger, the provider should warn about that clearly.
The provider shall be prohibited to specify, advertise or offer the merchandise with false or misleading data”.
HE Sheikh/ Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of Consumer Protection Department emphasized that all companies operating in the country must apply the standards and high specifications in all goods and products offered and presented to the consumer.
Mr. Youssef Saad Al Suwaidi, Head of Commercial Fraud Combat Department in the Consumer Protection Department stated that the inspections aims to protect the consumer’s right and that the department is vigilant to ensure that goods and services sold in the market are genuine and in accordance with the standards and the health and safety requirements.

The consumer protection department in the ministry of business and trade continues its inspection campaigns in the markets and different commercial centers to monitor all infringing goods and products that do not conform to the standard specifications and the safety and health conditions.
And during an inspection campaign on a widespread center that possesses many branches in the State, the CP department had monitored large quantities of cleaning products, in 11 branches of the mentioned center, that do not have on their packing the main and basic details that must be stated like the country of origin, production and expiry dates, which constitutes a violation of the Article (7) of the Law No. (8) for the year 2008 on consumer protection, which stipulates that:
“Provider, once offering any merchandise for circulation, shall be obliged to state on its cover or packing clearly the merchandise’s type, nature, ingredients and all relevant data as per the executive regulation of this Law.
If the use of this merchandise results in a danger, the provider should warn about that clearly.
The provider shall be prohibited to specify, advertise or offer the merchandise with false or misleading data”.
This act is considered also as a violation of the Article (13) of the same law, that stipulates that:
“Provider shall warrant that the merchandise or the service provided to the consumer shall be complied with the declared adopted standards. They shall be also accountable for incompliance with the conditions relating to public health and safety”.
And after investigating about the origin of these products, it appeared that there is a factory in the industrial area that produces such detergents. The factory was raided and the consumer protection representatives proved all the monitored violations, and it was realized that the factory is using expired sterilizing hand gels to produce the company’s products, after recycling these expired products with other cleaning products, adding to that the cited plant has no license from the competent agent.
Based on that, the consumer protection department emphasizes that all suppliers must adhere to the standards and conditions in the displayed and offered goods and products, as a way to upgrade the Qatari market to keep pace with the general progress and evolution in the state, and prove itself as a modern country where all quality standards and safety and health conditions are applied. 
  

In the context of the permanent efforts made by the Ministry of Business and Trade, represented by the Consumer Protection Department, to monitor the markets and the economic activities in the State, in order to ensure the consumer profit, the CP department has revealed today a number of violations committed during the month of January 2013. The violations that have been amounted to 95 violations include:

As for the complaints received by the Consumer Protection Department, and which have been amounted to 350 complaints, they have been dealt with and transferred to the responsible competent departments.