Doha:Qatar has emphasized the need for a transformative approach to investment promotion due to evolving global conditions such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain restructuring, and technological advancements. These changes are reshaping global investment flows and creating opportunities in fields like artificial intelligence, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

According to Qatar News Agency, HE Sheikh Ali bin Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of the Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar), addressed these issues during a roundtable at the ninth World Investment Forum 2026 in Doha. He highlighted that investment flows are becoming concentrated in a few major economies, moving towards locations with favorable conditions rather than those most in need of investment.

Sheikh Ali stressed the necessity for investment promotion agencies and special economic zones to rethink competitiveness and market access. He noted that investors now evaluate the strength of entire economic ecosystems, including factors such as access to talent, technological capabilities, and sustainable infrastructure.

Nan Li Collins, director of the Division on Investment and Enterprise at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of integrated ecosystems that combine skilled workforces, technology, and strong local company links. She announced a Green Zones Working Group under the Global Alliance of Special Economic Zones to promote green investment and develop adaptable model projects.

Ismail Ersahin, executive director of the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies, discussed the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on investment promotion, highlighting its potential to facilitate targeted investor outreach and project follow-up. He advocated for closer cooperation between investment promotion agencies and economic zones to enhance investor experiences and support national development priorities.

James X. Zhan, chairman of the executive board of the World Investment Conference, identified various geopolitical and technological factors influencing investment strategies and global value chains. He underscored the importance of aligning investment with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly through clean and alternative energy initiatives.