In a significant effort to enhance trade relations, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, is set to embark on a visit to Doha, Qatar, from October 6 to October 7, 2025.
This trip highlights India’s commitment to strengthening its trade and investment relationships with Qatar, a nation regarded as a vital trading partner within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). According to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the bilateral trade between India and Qatar is projected to surpass USD 14 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25.
During the visit, both parties are anticipated to engage in extensive discussions that will include a review of the current state of bilateral trade, identification of existing trade barriers, and addressing non-tariff issues. Furthermore, they will explore potential avenues to enhance trade and investment flows between the two nations.
Among the key topics to be discussed are the proposed India-Qatar Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the path forward for finalizing the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), as indicated by the Ministry.
Discussions will also encompass cooperation in essential sectors such as finance, agriculture, environmental sustainability, tourism, culture, and healthcare, ensuring a holistic approach to bilateral relations, according to the official statement.
Accompanying the Union Minister is a delegation of prominent industry representatives who will participate in the inaugural meeting of the India-Qatar Joint Business Council. This assembly aims to bolster business interactions and foster collaboration between the two nations.
The business delegation is expected to engage actively with various Qatari businesses and organizations, including the Qatar Chamber, Qatar Financial Centre, Invest Qatar, and the Qatar Free Zones Authority, to explore potential partnerships and investment opportunities.
Additionally, Minister Goyal will meet with representatives from the Doha Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), the Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC) in Qatar, and senior members of both Qatari industries and the Indian expatriate community in Qatar. This engagement is aimed at strengthening ties and promoting mutual understanding between the two nations.
