Qatar Healthcare Genome Program Business and Research Opportunities
Qatar has made significant progress in the field of biological research over the last 10 years, with a focus on areas such as genomics, biomedical research, and biotechnology. In the area of genomics, Qatar is at the forefront in the Gulf region, using whole genome sequencing, along with other “omics” data to drive clinical precision medicine practices. Omics is a rapidly developing, emerging field to understand the biological makeup of a person’s body to predict and diagnose diseases. This approach tailors disease prevention and treatment, considering differences in people’s genes, environments, and lifestyles.
The Qatar Genome Program (QGP) is a national initiative that was launched by Qatar Foundation (QF) in 2015. The aim of the QGP is to sequence the genome of Qatari nationals and establish a comprehensive database that can help improve healthcare, enhance disease prevention, and enable personalized medicine and individualized treatment plans. There are several initiatives under the QGP, which includes predictive genomics for cancer, clinical collaborations, wellness, pharmacogenomics, whole genome sequencing, and research projects. The overall objectives of this project are to enhance disease prevention, promote a healthier lifestyle, and discover ways to cure genetic diseases.
Opportunities for U.S. companies
There are numerous opportunities for U.S. companies that are specialized in the genetics research field. Companies who specialize in the following areas should reach out to Commercial Service (CS) Qatar for specific opportunities and connections to potential business partners.
• Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals
• Genetic Testing and Diagnostics: Qatar has been working to expand access to genetic testing and improve the accuracy of diagnostics tests. U.S. companies with expertise in this area may be able to partner with the Qatar Foundation and the Ministry of Public Health to provide technical expertise and services.
• Genetic Research: Qatar has several research institutions that are focused on genetics and genomics such as:
o Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), https://www.hbku.edu.qa/en/qbri/about
o Qatar Genome Program (QGP), https://www.qatargenome.org.qa
o Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), https://www.hamad.qa/EN/Pages/default.aspx
U.S. companies with experience in genomics research may be able to collaborate with these institutions on projects related to disease prevention and treatment. CS Qatar offers business-to-business matchmaking services to facilitate meetings with these entities and assess market potential for your product or service.
• Personalized medicines: Qatar has been focusing on personalized medicine research to improve patient outcomes and the government is actively seeking foreign investment and partnership opportunities in these areas. In the past year, Qatar set up several research initiatives to attract foreign companies to Qatar through entities such as the Qatar Development Bank, the Qatar Science and Technology Park, the Qatar Business Incubation Center, and the Qatar Financial Center.
• Medical Equipment and Technology: Qatar is investing in healthcare infrastructure, including the development of new hospitals and clinics. Medical equipment for laboratory tests and preventative medicine, and genetics testing materials for biomedical research are some of the medical equipment and technologies hospitals are looking to procure to expand their medical service offerings.
Next Steps for the U.S. client
U.S. companies with products and services offering genome services and solutions and technical expertise should work with Anissa Lahreche (Anissa.Lahreche@trade.gov) at the U.S. Commercial Service in Qatar to explore matchmaking, market research, and other assistance that may prove beneficial.