Welsh companies looking to build their trade links with the Middle East will be among the first to capitalise on the new daily flights between Cardiff and Doha which begin this week.

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, has announced that a trade mission of ten Welsh companies who are in Qatar this week to capitalise on the new links between Cardiff Airport and Doha

The companies taking part in the trade mission to Qatar are:

AmniTec

Axium Process

Calon Wen Organic Diary Produce

Catnic – Tata Steel UK.

Penfro Consultancy

Rachel’s Dairy

Rhug Organic Farm

Site Heat – Treatment Services

Teddington Engineered Solutions

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

The trade mission provides an opportunity to strengthen and build ties with prospective partners and investors both independently and through Welsh Government organised business receptions and events.

Speaking ahead of his trip to Doha, the First Minister said:

“The new direct service between Cardiff and Doha has the potential to deliver exciting new economic opportunities for Welsh businesses looking to do trade with the Middle East, India, China, Singapore and Australasia. This trade mission demonstrates the appetite there is among Welsh businesses to make the most of this new global trade link and show the world exactly what they have to offer. “This week marks the result of 2 years of hard work – with Welsh Government and Cardiff Airport working together to put forward an attractive proposal to bring this service to Wales. The direct flight opens up the prospect of further investment, and the Welsh Government will continue to maximise opportunities to raise Wales’ profile in new global markets – this week’s trade mission is just the beginning.”

The Economy and Transport Secretary said: