Qatar’s non-energy private sector expands in March ’25

Qatar’s non-energy private sector showed a stronger improvement in business conditions in March, according to the latest S&P Global PMI data. The headline PMI rose from 51.0 in February to 52.0 in March, marking the best performance of 2025 so far. The increase was driven by new orders, stock purchases, and a continued rise in employment and wages.

According to the PMI data, the growth in new business was the strongest in four months, particularly in manufacturing and wholesale & retail. Employment growth, while easing slightly from February’s peak, remained robust across most sectors, with construction lagging behind other industries. Companies also rebuilt inventories, aided by faster supplier deliveries, while input orders fell marginally.

Sentiment for the year-ahead outlook improved, reaching its highest level in two years, reflecting expectations of continued economic growth, particularly in real estate, construction, and government projects. Average wages saw slower growth, and inflation for input prices eased, but charges for goods and services continued to decline.

Overall, the March data signals a positive trend, with business conditions improving despite some challenges in the construction sector.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: M. S. Salama