French innovation is spotlighted in Hall 4 at Project Qatar 2015

United Arab Emirates; April 2, 2015 - 22 French companies will be exhibiting their products and services in the Pavilion organised by BUSINESS FRANCE at the PROJECT QATAR show 4 – 7 May 2015. The pavilion, located in Hall 4, near the other national pavilions, will provide an excellent showcase. The high quality and reliability of the products exhibited are proof that, once again this year, made in France products in the construction and finishings sectors are synonymous with research and innovation.

The French construction sector, which consists of close to 340,000 companies employing 1.5 people and generating sales of 130 billion Euros, has a very diverse industrial base with a lightweight structure that augments its responsiveness. Extremely competitive, its companies export high-quality products offering cutting-edge technology and top-class design: innovative insulating materials, façades that let light through, false ceilings, clay roof tiles, natural paints, etc.

Today, there is increasing interest in sustainable and ecological buildings, energy efficiency and construction using wood, intelligent buildings or home automation, innovative materials and design. In a sector where security is an overriding concern, French companies’ reputation for rigorously finished products generates a positive image and solid positioning wherever technology, innovation, quality and design play important roles. In fact, many of these companies are considered a reference in terms of norms and regulations in a number of countries.

The 3^rd largest market in the CCG, Qatar's public investment programme totals some 200 billion USD. In addition to the 2022 Football World Cup, authorities are working on a long-term project, "Qatar National Vision 2030", aimed at restructuring the entire island and the local economic base. With many major projects scheduled over the next 15 years, the construction sector should experience an annual growth rate of 12.5%. Between 2012 and 2016, 40% of the country's budget is allocated to a number of infrastructure projects.

Qatar, which has close ties with France, has invested massively in the country and is a shareholder in many leading French companies. In parallel, French products and services are highly esteemed by Qataris for the companies' expertise in high-quality projects such as five-star hotels and villas, and for their know-how with major sporting events. The diversity of exhibitors at the French Pavilion mirror's the wide range of activities encompassed by the sector. Almost one third are exhibiting their products or services for the first time. Others, frequent visitors to the show, are global market leaders. In all, they represent the full spectrum of the civil engineering and construction industry.

Beyond servicing today’s already significant business dealings, the French Pavilion at Project Qatar aims to strengthen existing partnerships and develop new joint-ventures, promote the Made-in-France model, and make solid connections with local contractors, distributors and agents.