Experts discuss e-commerce law

DOHA: Qatar's e-commerce law, which was enacted in April this year, and related trends including cloud computing were the main issues discussed by experts with businessmen yesterday at ictQatar's Business Connect seminar held at the Diplomatic Club.

The implications

Speakers discussed the implications and benefits of the law for businesses in Qatar, and as well shared insights on some of the latest trends in cloud computing at the seminar dubbed "Foundations for e-Business."

Ahmad Al Kuwari, Manager of ICT Market Development, said businesses in Qatar were eagerly awaiting the enactment of the e-commerce law, which clarifies important business issues just as e-signatures, e-transactions, e-documentation and online authorisation. "ictQatar believes this law will allow businesses here to develop innovative online business models and offerings. It is a vital part of helping local businesses compete in the global marketplace," he said.

Bashar Dahabra, founder and CEO of Infotocell.com, a leading wireless application service provider in the MENA region, shared his experiences in developing a prosperous e-business model in the region and his views on the existing opportunities for e-commerce.

In his presentation, Girard Moussa, from Google's Enterprise MENA division, said cloud computing was one of the single biggest shifts in computing seen in recent years. "Companies are realising that it makes business and economic sense. The cloud is simply the future of IT," Moussa said.

Other topics addressed while the seminar included Qatar's national e-learning portal and its offerings for businesses, the benefits to business resulting from competition in the telecommunications sector, and a case study on Car Semsar that highlighted its successful e-business model.

Exhibition with more than 20 exhibitors

Business Connect as well featured an exhibition with more than 20 exhibitors, including Google, MEEZA, Qtel, Vodafone, iHorizons, Fahras Qatar, Mannai Corporation, Booz & Company, Ali Bin Ali, SAP, Sage, and others.

ictQatar regularly holds Business Connect seminars, which are aimed at sharing the latest trends and advances in ICT with the business community in Qatar, during providing an excellent networking possibility for the participants.