On the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) in Doha, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Qassim Al-Abdullah Al-Thani of the Qatar Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) agreed in a meeting to finalize the ratification process of the Philippines-Qatar Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) within the year.
Citing the Philippines’ completion of its domestic ratification procedures last April, Secretary Pascual said, “The entry into force of the IPPA is expected to significantly deepen the economic ties between the Philippines and Qatar. We are confident that finalizing the ratification process will translate into productive investment figures contributing to our mutually shared prosperity.”
In addition to the IPPA discussions, the DTI and MOCI also agreed to pursue a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation on intellectual property rights (IPR) protection. This MOU will facilitate the exchange of information and best practices, training programs, and high-level dialogues on IP policy.
The Philippine delegation expressed concern about the proliferation of counterfeit Filipino brands in the Middle East, including Qatar. They cited that enhanced cooperation on IPR protection, including the proposed MOU, would address these concerns and create a more fair and secure environment.
During the discussion, both countries also affirmed their commitment to proactively collaborate on creating a business-friendly environment that will facilitate greater trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The Ministers noted the countries’ shared vision of diversifying and expanding their economies through investments in infrastructure, integrated circuit design and manufacturing, and financial services.
Furthermore, both parties discussed holding the inaugural Philippines-Qatar Joint Economic, Commercial, and Technical Committee (JECTC) meeting in the first quarter of 2025. This proposal was relayed to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar in his visit to Manila last April. They also agreed on organizing a business forum and a business-to-business matching session on the sidelines of the JCETC.
At the three-day QEF, Secretary Pascual is representing the Philippines to promote the country’s initiatives to global stakeholders. He is set to speak on the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to create a robust business environment, emphasizing the country’s commitment to sustainable growth and economic resilience.
With the theme “A World Remade: Navigating the Year of Uncertainty,” the QEF brings together leaders from across the world to address critical issues that shape the international business landscape.
The QEF is seen to provide a platform for the Philippines to showcase its potential as a premier investment destination in Southeast Asia while facilitating discussions toward stronger economic partnerships with key players in the Gulf region. It is also aimed to foster dialogue and collaboration to explore the Gulf’s strategic standing as the world navigates global complexities and uncertainties.
