Anticipating much infrastructure work in the rich Gulf state of Qatar, Swiss chemicals giant Sika has begun producing concrete admixtures in its capital, Doha.
The move comes amid an ongoing blockade of Qatar by its neighbours Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Sika set up a national subsidiary there in 2012.
Ivo Schädler, EMEA Regional Manager said: "The optimization of our supply chain will enable us to play an even greater role in major construction projects in Qatar. Having our own production capacities available locally makes it possible for us to lower transportation costs and enhance proximity to customers."
As well as stadiums and infrastructure for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Sika said Qatar is expanding its transport and energy infrastructures with roads, ports, railroads, and power plants.
One important major project is the Doha Metro, a rapid transport system linking the capital with its suburbs. The gas sector is also attracting large-scale investment. Average annual growth of more than 9% is forecasted for Qatar’s construction industry until 2023.
Earlier this month Sika announced it had completed its acquisition of Parex.
Image: Diplomatic area of Al Dafna district in Doha, Qatar (Matt Kieffer/CC BY-SA 2.0)Â
