H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, affirmed that markets in the State of Qatar are witnessing stability in the availability of goods, with sufficient strategic stock in place. This is attributed to the Ministry’s proactive plans to address various challenges, as well as the existence of an integrated system to monitor market activity and stock levels.

This came during a special interview with Qatar Television from the Ministry’s Operations Center, where His Excellency explained that the center was established more than ten years ago to address developments and emergency situations. Its role is to monitor the availability of a range of essential goods in the Qatari market and ensure supply continuity through advanced electronic systems that track the movement of goods from entry points, warehouses, and across all retail outlets nationwide, while continuously monitoring stock levels and demand.

His Excellency added that the center oversees the coordination and implementation of field inspection plans, with more than 300 inspectors monitoring markets to ensure that commercial establishments comply with applicable laws and regulations, maintain market stability, and ensure the availability of goods for citizens and residents. He noted that approximately 3,000 inspection operations are being carried out daily since the beginning of the crisis.

With regard to current regional tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, His Excellency explained that the Ministry had, for more than ten years, developed plans to address various challenges and risks, including disruptions to shipping routes, in coordination with relevant entities. These included contingency plans to diversify supply routes and secure alternative shipping lines.

He indicated that, with the onset of the current crisis, these plans were immediately activated, including the opening of alternative logistics routes, as well as the activation of the Ministry’s emergency operations room, which operates around the clock in coordination with government entities and the private sector to monitor supply movement and ensure the continued availability of goods.

His Excellency noted that coordination has taken place with Qatar Airways to facilitate urgent shipments of certain essential goods when needed. To date, more than 300 tonnes of air cargo have arrived in the State, with a target of reaching 1,000 tonnes.

Regarding prices, His Excellency stated that it is natural for some goods to be affected under current conditions due to increased global shipping and transportation costs. He added that increased demand for goods in many countries during the crisis has led to slight and temporary price increases in source markets, which are expected to return to previous levels once conditions stabilize.

He emphasized that the availability of large stock levels within the State contributes to maintaining price stability in the local market, noting that Qatar ranks 19th globally in the Food System Resilience Index, reflecting the strength of its food system and the efficiency of its supply chains.

His Excellency further noted that the Ministry continuously monitors prices, with all product prices registered and daily inspections conducted to ensure compliance by retail outlets. He stressed that the Ministry will not tolerate any cases of price manipulation or exploitation, and that legal action will be taken against any violators. Reports are received through the hotline (16001) and digital platforms and are promptly referred to field inspection teams.

His Excellency highlighted the role of national industries in supporting market stability and enhancing food security, noting that the industrial sector currently includes more than 138 national food factories operating efficiently to supply the local market. Domestic production has seen notable growth, with the number of national products exceeding 2,000 in 2025, representing a 9% increase compared to 2024.

He added that current conditions have created a real opportunity for the private sector to contribute to achieving self-sufficiency, expand production, and invest in food industries.

With regard to strategic stock, His Excellency stated that Qatar ranks 30th globally in the Global Food Security Index, reflecting the success of government policies in building a resilient food system capable of addressing various challenges.

He confirmed that strategic stock levels of essential goods are available in sufficient quantities due to prior preparedness, and that, to date, there has been no need to utilize these reserves, as reliance remains on supplies held by suppliers and retail outlets.

His Excellency explained that strategic stock includes key food commodities such as rice, sugar, wheat, oils, and other essential goods, all of which are available in sufficient quantities to meet market needs. He also affirmed that essential, consumer, and even non-essential goods are available across all retail outlets.

Regarding the Ministry’s services, His Excellency noted that services continue without interruption through the Single Window Services Center, with more than 500 electronic services available via the website and mobile application, adding that the Ministry was already delivering 95% of its services electronically even before the crisis.

He concluded by affirming the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing communication with the public through its social media platforms to disseminate official information, guidance, and alerts that enhance consumer awareness, transparency, and the timely provision of accurate information