Qatar Cabinet Approves Draft Law to Regulate Precious Metals and Gemstones Sector

Qatar's Council of Ministers approved, during its session on September 16, 2026, a draft law setting out comprehensive provisions to regulate activities related to precious metals and gemstones. The legislation is intended to replace Law No. 4 of 1978, the country's existing framework governing the sector. The draft law was prepared by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) in coordination with the Qatar General Organization for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM), which is expected to see its supervisory role over the sector strengthened under the new framework. According to the Cabinet, the update is designed to align Qatar's regulations with current international standards and market practices while reinforcing consumer protection safeguards for buyers of gold, jewellery, and precious stones. The draft has been referred to the Shura Council for review, a standard step before legislation is issued into law. During the same session, the Cabinet also approved a draft ministerial decision reorganizing the Permanent Committee for the Registration of Pharmaceutical Companies and Their Products, replacing a decision dating to 2000. Businesses operating in Qatar's jewellery, trading, and retail sectors should monitor the legislative process, as the new law is expected to introduce updated licensing, standards, and compliance requirements once enacted.