Filipino Entrepreneurs Create Substantial Impacts On Local Economy

(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Love Lee Laine Garcia | The Peninsula

Doha, Qatar: The Filipino community in Qatar is one of the largest and most dynamic expatriate groups, significantly contributing to the local economy. Over the years, this community has seen rapid growth in the business sector, with numerous Filipino entrepreneurs making substantial impacts across various industries.

These entrepreneurs have successfully navigated and overcome market challenges, showcasing remarkable resilience and adaptability. Their contributions not only highlight the entrepreneurial spirit of the Filipino community but also enhance Qatar's diverse business landscape.

In conjunction with the Philippines Independence Day on June 12, The Peninsula spoke with several Filipino entrepreneurs who have carved out successful niches in various industries across Qatar, sharing their journeys of overcoming challenges and achieving business success.

Melanie Del Rosario, CEO and owner of Le Vibe Beauty, discussed the initial hurdles of navigating Qatar's business landscape. She emphasised understanding local regulations, building a solid network, and continuously learning as key factors in overcoming these challenges.“Through perseverance and determination, we overcame these challenges by seeking guidance from local mentors, attending networking events, and investing in continuous learning,” Del Rosario told The Peninsula.

Del Rosario also highlighted the significant challenge of balancing quality and pricing to compete in Qatar's diverse market.“As a Filipino entrepreneur in Qatar, we must continually improve our products and stay updated with the latest industry developments,” she noted.

Sky Gonzales, owner of Manoks to Go by Maharlika Park Restaurant, advocates for collaboration over competition in the food industry.“In the food industry here in Qatar, it is better to collaborate than compete. That's how we manage the difficulties of competition. By establishing connections with other Filipino entrepreneurs, local business owners, and industry professionals, we gain insights, support, and potential business opportunities,” Gonzales advised.

Carla Leanne Abdon, who runs the family business The Filipino Street Food Atbp, stressed the importance of adapting to market trends and labor market variables to maintain a steady consumer base.“One of the main challenges we face is the rivalry with different entrepreneurs while coping with varying market trends to maintain our consumer flow,” Abdon said.

Mirasol Ortega, CEO of Purpleline Beauty, focuses on providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service to distinguish her business from competitors.“Staying informed about the latest market trends and ensuring my staff are well-trained are crucial to maintaining the business,” Ortega shared.

The Peninsula has compiled essential advice from successful Filipino entrepreneurs in Qatar, forming a valuable guideline for newcomers aiming to navigate and excel in Qatar's expansive market.

Key strategies include building strong networks and maintaining good communication with local partners and clients, staying informed about local laws, regulations, and market trends, deeply understanding the target market and aligning products with consumer preferences, being strategic in marketing, patient in overcoming business challenges, and learning basic Arabic phrases to facilitate better interaction in a predominantly English-speaking business environment.

These strategies, derived from the experiences of Filipino entrepreneurs who have shown exceptional resilience, creativity, and dedication, serve as a beacon for aspiring business owners in Qatar. Their success stories illustrate effective ways to overcome challenges and achieve business success in Qatar's dynamic market.

The Qatari government's supportive stance towards new investors, by facilitating a com-petitive business environment with supportive laws and infra-structure, encourages even more individuals to pursue their entre-preneurial dreams in Qatar.

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