Microsoft, Qatar gov’t raid pirate software traders

Microsoft Gulf and the Qatar Ministry of Economy and Commerce have raided IT resellers that sold counterfeit Microsoft software in Qatar. In its capacity as a member of the Business Software Alliance (BSA), Microsoft collaborated with Qatar enforcement agents to track down and raid two firms that were conducting the illegal activities.

Products seized included a personal computer loaded with Windows OS and a USB HDD used for installing pirated software; in addition to a PC loaded with pirated Windows OS.

“BSA is always ready to help the Qatari Government improve its international reputation in the field of information technology, which will be a key step towards optimising the country’s full economic potential in the rapidly growing IT sector. Additionally, having a safe and legal digital environment is a sure way to attract international investors to Qatar, opening new revenue channels and boosting the country’s economy,” said Jawad Al Redha, BSA Co-Chairman in the Middle East.

As one of the top performing regional country’s in the fight against piracy, Qatar has posted a 2% drop in its piracy rate in 2006, which has delivered considerable economic impact in view of the enormous growth of its IT sector. In a recent Madar Research report, Qatar‘s IT infrastructure was recognised as the best in the Middle East based on the World Bank Knowledge Economy Index.