Qatar emerges as key global trade and logistics hub with growth

Qatar is solidifying its role as a strategic trade and logistics hub between Asia, Africa, and Europe, supported by rising cargo volumes and advanced airport and port infrastructure. Hamad International Airport processed more than 1.2 million tonnes of air freight in the first five months of 2025, while Hamad Port recorded a 6.3% year-on-year increase in cargo throughput handling over 650,000 containers during the same period. Key growth sectors include machinery, building materials, and consumer goods. Experts attribute the country’s logistics momentum to a combination of technology and trade policy. Automation at Hamad Port, including AI-based container handling and blockchain tracking, has cut clearance times by 20%, making it one of the region’s most efficient ports. “Qatar’s investment in smart logistics infrastructure is paying off,” said Maritime Economist Rania Shafiq. With new regional trade pacts and infrastructure expansions under its National Logistics Strategy, Qatar is positioning itself as a neutral, resilient, and future-ready cargo hub.