The Qatari Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) announced on 11 July that it was reducing official fees, in some cases by up to 90%, for services relating to the commercial, industrial, business development and consumer protection sectors.
Effected by Ministerial Decision No. 60 of 2024, the decision followed analysis of the business environment and investor requirements, and the need to attract both local and foreign businesses. It is intended to encourage business growth and foster economic expansion in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
The most significant changes include the reduction of the fee for registration in the commercial register with one main activity from a maximum of QR10,000 (c. USD2,700) to QR500. The annual renewal fee and the fee for registering each additional activity in the commercial register has also both been lowered by the same amount.
The licensing fee for commercial, industrial, or public premises, including branches, has been reduced from a maximum fee of QR10,000 to QR500, with the same reduction applying to annual licence renewal. The fee for the licensing of home-based business activities has further been reduced from a maximum fee of QR1,000 to QR 300, with the same reduction applying to annual licence renewal.
Applications for registration in the Commercial Agents Registry have been reduced from QR3,000 to QR1,000, with the same reduction applying to annual renewal. Application for amendment endorsement in registration in the Commercial Agents Registry have also been reduced from QR1,000 to QR300 per application.
Minister of commerce Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani said that the decision to reduce fees was part of MOCI’s strategy aimed at enhancing the investment environment and developing the trade and industry sectors in Qatar.
“MOCI’s fee reductions cover several crucial services, enhancing accessibility and affordability for businesses to operate in Qatar,” said Nazar Musa, Head of KSA & Qatar at Sovereign PPG.
“It is expected that the decision will have a significantly positive impact on the market, specifically services related to company formation, issuance of commercial registrations and the licensing of commercial outlets.”
