ICC Qatar Discusses Issues Shaping Future of Trade and Treasury

Doha: The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Qatar discussed a number of issues related to the future of trade and treasury, in addition to the role of economic diversification, trade digitalisation, sustainability, Islamic finance, and regulation, in transforming the financial landscape. This came during the inaugural Qatar Trade and Treasury Thought Leaders Roundtable hosted by ICC Qatar in collaboration with MERGE. The roundtable served as a primer to the upcoming Qatar Trade and Treasury Transformation Summit 2025 organised by MERGE with the support of ICC Qatar, set to take place in February 2025. Participants unanimously agreed on the need for continuous collaboration between financial institutions, corporates, and regulators to successfully navigate the road ahead for Qatars trade and treasury sectors. Reflecting on the debate, MERGEs Content Director Eleanor Hill said: "The conversations highlighted the transformation challenges and opportunities within Qatars trade and treasury sectors. From digitalisation to sustainability, its clear that the potential benefits ahead are vast, but they will require collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to progress. To effect this change, we must go beyond talk and ensure these discussions translate into action." Queenie Taylor-Wong, Co-Founder and CEO of MERGE, added: "We are delighted to have the support from the local trade and treasury community in helping us to drive the conversation forward, especially in the area of digitalisation. It is important to have these discussions and we look forward to continuing to work closely with ICC Qatar and all key-stakeholders on vital Commissions such as ICC Qatar Customs and Trade Facilitation Commission. We also look forward to having more key players involved from various industries, particularly corporates, at next years summit." ICC Qatar stated in a statement that the topics discussed during the roundtable are vital for advancing our sector. The agenda pushed boundaries, and we aim to further devel op these conversations in a more technical context, incorporating them into our regular commission and task force meetings. This is particularly relevant for the UNCITRAL MLETR) Task Force, with our next meeting scheduled for October 9, 2024. "We also look forward to expanding these thought leadership discussions at the Summit next year." Source: Qatar News Agency