RP-Qatar business council to benefit Cebu businesses

The Cebu business community is now taking initiatives to forge a stronger relationship with the Qatar business sector, following the recent creation of the Philippine-Qatar Business Council, headed by Cebuano business leader Eric N. Mendoza.

Mendoza said the Philippines, specifically Cebu, can take advantage of Qatar’s rich economy by promoting tourism, seal joint infrastructure investments, and explore other trade opportunities.

Mendoza, who is also the president of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) said that stronger trade relations between Filipino and Qatari businessmen is expected as he takes the lead to activate closer relationships and trade partnerships with Qatar.

Cebu for instance, could benefit from this council, which is now composed of 40 members to showcase the furniture products to Qatari consumers, as well as growing institutional clients, like new hotels, and tourism related establishments.

Mendoza, who also owns a furniture exporting company, said that the active stance of forging direct relationship with the international market outside of the United States, is one of the main focuses currently embraced by exporters.

The State of Qatar is one of the target markets for furniture and home furnishing products of Cebu as the US market gets thinner.

The Philippine-Qatar Business Council was formed early this year, endorsed by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), under its committee on international relations.

Mendoza is co-chaired by another Manuel Osmeña, whose company developed the Cebu Hilton Resort and Spa. —Ehda M. Dagooc