Welsh companies looking to build their trade links with the Middle East will be among the first to capitalise on the new daily flights between Cardiff and Doha which begin this week.
First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, who will be on tomorrow’s inaugural Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Cardiff, has announced that a trade mission of ten Welsh companies will be heading to Qatar later this week (5-11 May) to capitalise on the new links.
The companies taking part in the trade mission to Qatar are:
- AmniTec
- Axium Process
- Calon Wen Organic Diary Produce
- Catnic – Tata Steel UK.
- Penfro Consultancy
- Rachel’s Dairy
- Rhug Organic Farm
- Site Heat – Treatment Services
- Teddington Engineered Solutions
- University of Wales Trinity Saint David
The trade mission provides an opportunity to strengthen and build ties with prospective partners and investors both independently and through Welsh Government organised business receptions and events.
Speaking ahead of his trip to Doha, the First Minister said:
“The new direct service between Cardiff and Doha has the potential to deliver exciting new economic opportunities for Welsh businesses looking to do trade with the Middle East, India, China, Singapore and Australasia. This trade mission demonstrates the appetite there is among Welsh businesses to make the most of this new global trade link and show the world exactly what they have to offer.
“This week marks the result of two years of hard work – with Welsh Government and Cardiff Airport working together to put forward an attractive proposal to bring this service to Wales. The direct flight opens up the prospect of further investment, and the Welsh Government will continue to maximise opportunities to raise Wales’ profile in new global markets – this week’s trade mission is just the beginning.”
The Economy and Transport Secretary said:
“The direct service between Cardiff and Doha is an exciting opportunity for Wales, providing a direct route to and from the world’s fastest growing hub airport, Hamad International.
“From the construction and energy supply chain to food and drink, there are a number of Wales based companies already active in Qatar, whilst Qatar Petroleum is the major shareholder in South Hook, one of the largest liquefied natural gas terminals in Europe, in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. This link provides further opportunities for both nations to build on these ties and act as a further catalyst for trade, investment and partnership.
“This trade mission will build on recent visits by both myself and the First Minister and will be followed by a specific food and drink trade development visit later in the year. This is all in addition to the recently announced marketing partnership agreement with Qatar Airways which will increase Wales’ visibility in key markets as a holiday and business destination.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for some of our finest Welsh companies to showcase exactly what they have to offer a key market and I look forward to continuing to work with them and companies across Wales to ensure they are fully equipped to capitalise on these links.”
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