Qatar Confirms Markets Stable Despite Regional Tensions And Hormuz Disruption

DOHA, March 18 (Bernama-QNA) -- Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani has said the country's markets remain stable and well-supplied, despite ongoing regional tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported.

In an interview with Qatar Television, Sheikh Faisal said the availability of essential goods across the country is secure, supported by long-term contingency planning and a comprehensive system for monitoring supply chains.

He explained that the ministry's operations centre, established more than a decade ago, plays a central role in tracking the movement of goods from entry points to warehouses and retail outlets. The system uses advanced digital tools to monitor stock levels and demand in real time.

More than 300 inspectors are currently deployed to oversee market activity and ensure compliance with regulations. According to the minister, around 3,000 inspection campaigns have been carried out daily since the start of the crisis.

The comments come amid heightened regional uncertainty and disruptions to shipping routes. The minister said Qatar had anticipated such scenarios, including the potential closure of key maritime corridors, and had already developed alternative logistics plans.

"These plans were activated immediately," Sheikh Faisal said, adding that alternative shipping routes had been secured and an emergency operations room was now working around the clock in coordination with government agencies and the private sector.

-- BERNAMA-QNA