Qatar’s economy is projected to grow at a strong 18.6 per cent in 2011 by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), according to the organisers of an upcoming construction technology and building materials trade fair in Doha.

The eighth edition of Project Qatar will run from May 2 to 5 at the Doha Exhibition Centre.

More than 1,000 exhibitors representing 40 countries have confirmed participation to the event, which also features environmental technology. The trade fair will have an additional 30,000 sq m temporary structure this year, totaling up to 46,000 sq m of exhibition space.

Qatar’s economy has shown resilience to the global economic crisis and recorded an impressive 13 per cent real GDP growth in 2010. Project Qatar 2011 is viewed as a gateway to numerous opportunities in Qatar that has planned over $100 billion of direct investments toward infrastructure projects in the coming 12 years, having been awarded Fifa 2022 World Cup hosting rights.

“Qatar’s economy, with its strong foundations, has shown a strong and steady growth in the past. The country offers numerous opportunities to businesses in almost all sectors,” said George Ayache, general manager, IFP Qatar, organisers of Project Qatar 2011.

“In line with its National Vision 2030 and also the World Cup, Qatar will witness investments to the tune of billions of dollars for a large number of upcoming infrastructural projects. Project Qatar 2011 is a strong opportunity and a strategic entry point for those keen on tapping into this flourishing economy,” he added.

Project Qatar 2011 gives its visitors and exhibitors a chance to gain access to local market dynamics, investors, and niche providers that enhance product offerings, benefit from a unique opportunity to come face-to-face with local market players in both the private and public spheres.

It will also act as a platform to acquire an in-depth knowledge of planned and current construction projects being carried out in the country while, at the same time, network with the country's top construction companies and decision makers and generate new business deals. – TradeArabia News Service