Complete Guide to Starting an Import-Export Business in Qatar (2025–26)

The import-export sector in Qatar is growing rapidly due to the country’s strong economy, advanced logistics network, business-friendly environment, and global trade partnerships. Entrepreneurs from all over the world are now exploring opportunities in international trade in Qatar, as the demand for foreign goods and local product exports continues to rise.

If you are planning to start an import-export business in Qatar, this complete 2025–26 guide will help you understand the process, required documents, trade licenses, business setup options, customs regulations, and key opportunities.

Why Start an Import-Export Business in Qatar?

Qatar is one of the fastest-growing economies in the Middle East. It offers a highly supportive environment for foreign investors who want to enter the international trade market.

Key Advantages:

• 100% foreign ownership in many sectors
• Easy business setup in Qatar
• Access to Qatar Free Zones with tax benefits
• World-class logistics through Hamad Port and Hamad International Airport
• High purchasing power and strong demand for imported goods
• Strategic trade location between Europe, Asia, and Africa

These benefits make Qatar one of the best markets for starting an import-export company.

Step-by-Step Process to Start an Import-Export Business in Qatar (2025–26)

Below is a detailed guide to help you establish a legally compliant and successful import-export business.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

Before starting company registration, decide your business structure. The most common types are:

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)

• Requires 1 or more shareholders
• Allows foreign ownership
• Ideal for both import and export activities

2. Sole Establishment

• Suitable for individual traders
• Limited liability protection is not available

3. Free Zone Company (QFZ)

• 100% foreign ownership
• No customs duties inside free zones
• Ideal for international trade operations

Step 2: Register Your Company in Qatar

To legally operate, you must complete your Qatar company registration through:

• Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI)
• Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)
• Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA)

The process includes:

1. Choosing a company name

2. Drafting the Articles of Association

3. Submitting required documents

4. Paying registration fees

After approval, you will receive your Commercial Registration (CR).

Step 3: Apply for Trade License in Qatar

For physical operations such as an office or warehouse, you must obtain a Trade License from the MOCI.

This allows you to legally conduct:

• Import activities
• Export activities
• Storage and distribution

Step 4: Get the Import License and Export License

To officially start your import-export operations, you must obtain:

✔ Import License Qatar

Issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

✔ Export License Qatar

Required to export goods outside Qatar.

These licenses allow you to clear goods through customs using your company name.

Step 5: Register with Qatar Chamber of Commerce

This step is mandatory for all trading companies. Registration enables:

• International trade activities
• Chamber certification for export documents

Step 6: Register with Qatar Customs

To clear imported or exported goods at ports, you must complete customs registration in Qatar.

Requirements include:

• Commercial Registration (CR)
• Trade License
• Computer Card (establishment card)
• Import/Export License

After registration, you can use the Qatar Customs Single Window Portal for all trade procedures.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account

A business bank account in Qatar is needed for:

• Global trade transactions
• Receiving foreign payments
• Paying suppliers
• Top banks include QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, and Doha Bank.

Step 8: Choose Your Products for Import or Export

Selecting the right product category is important. Qatar imports and exports a wide range of goods.

Most Imported Products in Qatar:

• Food items
• Construction materials
• Electronics
• Automobiles & spare parts
• Furniture
• Clothing & fashion

Popular Export Products from Qatar:

• Petroleum and gas
• Chemicals
• Plastics
• Fertilizers
• Aluminum

Choose products with high demand and good profitability.

Step 9: Understand Qatar Customs Regulations

Qatar has strict rules for importing and exporting goods. You must follow:

• HS codes for product categorization
• Customs duty rates
• Prohibited & restricted goods list
• Required health and safety certificates
• Country-of-origin rules

Proper documentation helps avoid delays at ports.

Step 10: Take Advantage of Qatar Free Zones

Qatar offers two major free zones:

✔ Ras Bufontas Free Zone (near Hamad Airport)

Ideal for logistics, trading, and aviation support.

✔ Umm Alhoul Free Zone (near Hamad Port)

Perfect for import-export, shipping, manufacturing, and warehousing.

Benefits include:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Zero customs duties inside the zone
• Full profit repatriation
• Long-term business incentives

Documents Required to Start an Import-Export Business

You will need:

• Passport copies of shareholders
• Company registration documents
• Trade License
• Computer Card
• Import/Export license
• Lease agreement for office or warehouse
• Customs registration certificate
• Having all documents ready speeds up approvals.

Cost of Starting an Import-Export Business in Qatar (Approx.)

• Company Registration: QAR 5,000 – 10,000
• Trade License: QAR 7,500 – 10,000
• Office Rent: QAR 1,500 – 5,000/month
• Import/Export Licenses: Additional fees apply
• Costs vary based on your business structure and location.

Business Opportunities in Qatar’s Import-Export Sector

Qatar’s vision for 2030 prioritizes economic diversification, creating new trade opportunities. Promising categories include:

• Food & beverages
• Construction supplies
• Eco-friendly products
• Beauty & skincare
• Industrial machinery
• Fashion and textiles
• Automotive parts

With the right strategy, profit potential is high.

Conclusion

Starting an import-export business in Qatar in 2025–26 is a promising opportunity thanks to the country’s strategic location, strong demand for international goods, and business-friendly laws. By understanding the company setup process, trade licenses, customs regulations, and import-export requirements, you can confidently enter Qatar’s booming trade market.