The Department for International Trade has already helped British companies to secure £940 million in Qatar World Cup-related exports and aims for at least a further £500 million before the competition kicks-off in 2022.
The UK’s Trade Policy Minister George Hollingbery has been in Qatar this week for the second meeting of the Joint Ministerial Economic Commercial and Technical Committee (JETCO).
Talks explored partnership opportunities for British business at the 2022 World Cup as well as celebrating the continued rise of trade between the two countries, which totalled £3.39 billion in 2017, an increase of 70% over the last five years.
Minister for International Trade George Hollingbery, said: “With our football teams enjoying success this summer and fantastic support coming from all four nations, it’s great to see British business winning contracts and making these fantastic events the spectacle they are.
“Our world class construction companies have some of the best safety records in the world and they will play an important role in delivering a safe and successful World Cup.
“If our nations have as much success in Qatar 2022 as UK businesses are having supporting it, we are in for another great tournament.”
In July, the Emir of Qatar visited London to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May. They discussed how the UK could continue to support Qatar to deliver a safe and successful World Cup in 2022, and the Prime Minister highlighted the expertise of British companies in delivering major sporting events.
So far, the UK has stepped up, capitalising on its expertise in project management, design, architecture and supply chains to secure world cup contracts.
UK business has a long track record of delivering the world’s biggest sporting events. The Department for International Trade helped UK companies win export business worth around £150 million supporting Brazil to deliver the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Olympic Summer Games.