The Peninsula Hails QFZA's Achievements

Doha, July 06 (QNA) - Qatari newspaper The Peninsula hailed in its editorial Tuesday the achievements of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) after Ras Bufontas Free Zone, which is overseen and regulated by QFZA, has been awarded the GSAS Design & Build (D&B) 3 Stars Certificate for "Districts & Infrastructure Scheme". The Qatari daily said that Ras Bufontas Free Zone incorporates a wide range of sustainability measures to preserve the environment and protect its biodiversity, stressing that the accreditation demonstrates QFZA's commitment to the highest standards of sustainability in construction and building development, and providing top-of-the-line, longterm infrastructure for companies based in Qatar Free Zones. This award is also testament to enduring contributions to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030 goals, the paper added. The newspaper pointed out that QFZA currently oversees two free zones, the 400- hectare Ras Bufontas Free Zone, which is located next to Hamad International Airport (HIA), while Umm Alhoul Free Zone is located next to Hamad Port. The paper underlined that the free zones deliver long-term solutions for local and international businesses with operations in Qatar, adding that Qatar Free Zones were established as part of the government's efforts to attract foreign direct investments, diversify the economy and create a hub for connectivity. The Peninsula said that QFZA has signed 39 new agreements and has brought the total number of companies in the Free Zones to more than 130 in 2020 despite the pandemic. Among the significant agreements signed by QFZA last year is the establishment of the first factory in Qatar to assemble the first electric vehicles "Made in Qatar" at the Ras Bufontas Free Zone. In conclusion, the newspaper underlined that QFZA also signed a multilateral framework agreement with Yutong, one of the world's largest bus and coach suppliers, and Mowasalat to manufacture e-buses in the zones for upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. (QNA)