Rapid urbanization has led to a population explosion in Qatar over the last few years. The country’s population base has tripled between the years 2000 and 2020. Moreover, approximately 70% of the population falls under the working-age group of 25–54 years. Qatar is also one of the richest countries globally, having the highest per capita income in the world. All these factors coupled with the country’s high standards of living, strong purchasing power and disposable incomes, low unemployment rate, as well as an increase in the number of tourists and hotels, have led to a sharp increase in food consumption.

 

Qatar continues to import international food and beverage products that are unable to be produced locally. This is incredibly important when it comes to meeting the needs and demands of expatriate consumers and tourists in the region. Qatar imports almost USD 3 billion worth of food and beverage products each year to meet its consumption demands, presenting unmatched business and trade opportunities for global food producers and manufacturers.

 

The Rise of Organic Products

In conjunction with the changing consumer attitudes, and a shift towards living a healthier lifestyle, organic products are increasing in popularity throughout Qatar, presenting a great opportunity for international brands to enter the market. Health and wellness products consumption in Qatar was valued at USD 778.9 million in 2022 with a CAGR growth rate of 5.4% and is expected to reach USD 820 million this year.

 

 

Growth Drivers and Opportunities

Qatar relies on imports for almost all food categories. Currently, the country meets no more than 20% of its domestic food demand, and reliance on imports is likely to keep increasing. The Food market in Qatar is projected to grow by 10.80% (2023-2027).

• Qatar is a growing market for high-value food products and consumers have an affinity for trying new products, offering greater opportunities for new-to-market food products
• Ready-to-eat foods, home meal replacements, fast foods, and "take-away" foods are increasingly popular with the young population.
• With the rise in disposable incomes and changing dietary patterns, the growth in meat consumption is expected to outpace the growth in other food categories
• Halal food is a growing business in Qatarin, and the value of the halal food market alone in GCC is estimated at USD $58.2 billion
• More than 2 million expats live and work in Qatar, creating demand for greater diversity and ethnic foods
• Qatar is a member of the GCC common market and provides a lower-cost export base than the neighboring countries
• Rising health consciousness is significantly increasing opportunities for food producers that are able to introduce “healthy” or “light” options. The hea and dietary foods and beverages market is growing at nearly 12% a year
• Demand for organic food is steadily increasing