TAG: The Middle East
Despite the economic blockade imposed by some of its regional neighbours in June 2017, a review of more than 100 CEOs in OBG’s Business Barometer: Qatar CEO Survey shows that the impact has been far less negative than one might have expected. Indeed, following the boycott, more than 90% of respondents were either positive or very positive about local business conditions, compared to 74% before. The speed and ease at which Qatar has managed to find alternative sources and routes for goods previously imported from GCC neighbours has no doubt boosted business sentiment, not to mention resourcefulness.
One of the first Gulf countries to fully embrace the need to diversify its economy, Bahrain continues to benefit from the relative strength and independence of its private sector. Despite a moderate growth outlook and concerns over regional political volatility, business sentiment from C-Suite executives surveyed in Oxford Business Group’s Business Barometer: Bahrain CEO Survey remains positive. Some 63% said they were likely or very likely to make a significant capital investment, with the country’s high level of transparency and strong business environment seen as key to continuing to attract foreign and domestic investment.
