DOHA: Qatar’s export potential is growing steadily on the back of a government led vision to be self-sufficient, according to the latest report from The Big 5 Qatar and Research and Markets. To reach this vision, Qatar leadership has been working to increase the GDP contribution from the manufacturing industry to 10.7 percent by 2018 from 10.2 percent in 2016, reveals the report.

Construction of warehousing and port expansions are listed as drivers for the production of building materials such as steel, aluminium, and concrete as well as machinery and heavy equipment supplies.

“Having achieved self-sufficiency, and thanks to its strategic location in the Gulf, Qatar is now ready to begin export of its home grown construction materials and products,” comments Senior Vice President of dmg events Doha, Andy White.

In light of this, thousands of trade professionals are expected to meet with over 200 local and international construction companies exhibiting at the first edition of The Big 5 Qatar in Doha.

Supported by the Qatar Tourism Authority and organised by dmg events Doha, The Big 5 Qatar will be coming to Qatar September 24-26 following great developments in the country’s business events infrastructure, hospitality and visa facilitation measures.

White adds: “Beyond Qatari exhibitors, the event will host companies from more than 20 countries, displaying the latest and most innovative products for the expanding Qatari construction sector. As the country moves forward developing visionary and ambitious projects, The Big 5 Qatar will also bring a wealth of knowledge to the local construction community through 40 CPD-certified and free to attend workshops.”

Ahmed Al Obaidli, Director of Exhibitions at Qatar Tourism Authority commented, “We are pleased more exhibition organisers recognise the strong platform that the Qatar market offers and look forward to working with DMG events to help them benefit from Qatar’s assets as a premium destination for large-scale exhibitions through Big 5 Qatar later this year.”

He added, “We will be delighted to welcoming exhibitors from all over the world to experience first-hand Qatar’s unique offering for business visitors.”

The Big 5 Qatar will run from 24–26 September 2018 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, welcoming more than 200 exhibiting companies from around the globe.

The event will also feature live demonstrations and 40 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) accredited workshops delivered by renowned industry experts.

Previously recognized as Building Services Qatar, this event has been rebranded as The Big 5 Qatar to incorporate The Big 5 international brand following recent market indicators.