Italy will be the largest national contingent at the inaugural Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS 2013) from November 12 to 16 at Lusail Marina. Italian companies and shipyards taking part include Ferretti Group whose brands include Ferretti, Pershing, Itama, Bertram, Riva, Mochi Craft, and CRN; Azimut; Overmarine (Mangusta); Benetti; Sanlorenzo; Cranchi; FIPA Group (Maiora, AB Yachts, Cbi Navi, Intermare); and SeaNet Custom Marine Solutions. The Italian marine industry association, UCINA (Confindustria Nautica), will also be present. It is a non-profit organisation for the development and promotion of the boating sector as well as knowledge about the sea and boating tourism. UCINA is also an advisory member for a roundtable to formulate policies and standards, promote tourism, encourage environmental concerns and promote education of all things maritime in Qatar. The classifying organisation RINA, which certifies ships, boats and yachts, has also shown interest in being part of the advisory team. Endorsing the QIBS, the Italian Ambassador, Guido De Sanctis, said, “We share with Qatar the fact that we are both peninsulas, virtually surrounded by the sea, so we have both developed a good relationship with the sea. “In the 1950s and 60s, Italians came into their own in the design of stylish yachts and we are now world leaders in this aspect of the maritime industry. “I have met some Italian designers in Qatar who don’t work with buildings, but work exclusively in the yachting industry. I have seen some photographs of what they have achieved in interior design and it’s very impressive. “Many other countries are trying to catch up; but the Italian ability to combine in a boat the elements of mechanics, comfort and beauty is unique. This explains why our companies will represent the majority of exhibitors at the show. “We understand that Qataris appreciate the special meaning of luxury. They like quality, improvement and customisation — just like us; and ideally no two yachts should be identical. This is something we appreciate and know how to do. We are very good at custom- made things.” The embassy has opened an office of the Italian Trade Commission to assist Italian companies establish themselves in the Qatari market. The Italian decision to enlarge its embassy demonstrates the importance Italy places on improving trade with Qatar. http://thepeninsulaqatar.com/qatar/259926-italian-team-to-be-the-largest-at-boat-show-.html

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