The Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement between Türkiye and Qatar has entered into force

In a statement made by the Ministry of Trade, it was stated that with the entry into force of the agreement, the aim is to deepen trade relations between the two countries, increase trade volume, and encourage investment.

It was stated that as of 2024, the foreign trade volume between Türkiye and Qatar was at the level of USD 1.1 billion, and Türkiye had a foreign trade surplus of USD 328 million from this trade. The Ministry noted that the TEOA aims to increase this volume to USD 5 billion in the medium term and that Turkish companies will have more advantageous access to the Qatari market.

Under the agreement, customs duties and equivalent measures on a wide range of products subject to trade have been mutually abolished. New market opportunities have emerged for Turkish exporters, particularly in industrial products such as automotive, construction materials, jewelry, white goods, textiles, carpets, cleaning products, plastics, machinery, and electrical and electronic goods, as well as food products such as eggs, dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and processed agricultural products.

Services trade also occupied a special place in the agreement. While provisions regulating mutual activities were introduced in areas such as financial services and telecommunications, commitments exceeding those of the World Trade Organization were made in areas such as law, advertising, vehicle rental, distribution, education, transportation, and tour operating. In addition, improvements were made to Qatar's commitments under the WTO in certain sectors such as accounting, architecture, computer, and construction services.

In a statement, the Ministry of Trade emphasized that this agreement offers a new investment environment based on mutual trust for Turkish and Qatari investors, and expressed its expectation that projects prioritizing production and employment will increase. It was noted that the agreement opens the door to a new era of opportunities for Turkish businesses in Qatar. The Ministry stated that it will continue to take decisive steps to facilitate exports, instill confidence in investors, and enhance Türkiye's global economic strength.