Embassy of India, Kuwait invites application from suitable candidates for the local post of Arabic Interpreter in the Embassy.
The number of domestic workers in Kuwait dropped to 740,000 by the end of Q3 2024, marking a 6.3% decrease from 790,000 in 2023, according to the Central Administration of Statistics. Domestic workers now constitute 25.3% of the total expatriate workforce in the country.
Among the total domestic worker population, 411,000 are female, while 329,000 are male.
According to the Al-Shall report, the Philippines has the highest number of female domestic workers, totaling 149,000 by the end of Q3 2024. This marks a significant decline from 193,000 in 2023.
On the other hand, India has the largest number of male domestic workers, with a total of 219,000 in 2024, compared to 251,000 in 2023.
When considering both domestic and other expatriate workers, Indians form the largest expatriate workforce in Kuwait, with a total of 887,000 workers by the end of Q3 2024.
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Commerce and Industry has referred a suspected case of commercial raffle fraud to the Public Prosecution for legal proceedings. Authorities have taken swift action against individuals involved, emphasizing the country’s commitment to combating fraudulent activities in commercial operations.
In connection with the case, criminal investigation officers arrested an Egyptian woman at Kuwait International Airport as she attempted to leave the country. The General Department of Criminal Investigation had earlier issued an alert with her details to all entry and exit points. Acting upon this notification, airport authorities apprehended the suspect before her departure.
Following her arrest, the woman was handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal action. The Ministry of Commerce continues to work closely with law enforcement to ensure accountability and protect consumers from fraudulent business practices.
This development highlights Kuwait’s zero-tolerance policy on fraud and its proactive approach to maintaining transparency in commercial dealings.
Kuwait has been ranked 80th globally and seventh in the Arab world in the 37th edition of the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), conducted by Z/Yen Group and the China Development Institute (CDI). The country dropped 11 spots, earning a score of 672 points, as reported by Al Rai newspaper.
The GFCI evaluates 119 financial centers worldwide by analyzing data from reputable organizations such as the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the United Nations. Rankings are based on 31,314 financial center assessments collected from 4,946 financial professionals through an online survey. The index is updated biannually, every March and September, and is highly regarded in the global financial sector.
Among Arab nations, Kuwait ranked seventh, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) leading the region:
On the global stage, New York retained its position as the top financial center, followed by London in second place, and Hong Kong in third. Other financial powerhouses in the top 10 include:
The GFCI serves as a benchmark for assessing the competitiveness of financial centers worldwide. It provides insights into factors such as business environment, financial sector development, infrastructure, human capital, and reputation. Financial hubs with strong rankings benefit from increased investor confidence and greater economic opportunities.
Minister of Public Works Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan reaffirmed the significance of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Seaport in positioning Kuwait as a central hub for international trade and commerce. During her site visit to Boubyan Island, she emphasized the project's role in Kuwait Vision 2035, a strategic initiative aimed at transforming the country into a leading economic and commercial powerhouse.
Dr. Al-Mashaan, who also serves as the Acting Minister of Water, Electricity, and Renewable Energy, stated that her visit aligns with leadership directives to accelerate the construction process. The inspection focused on assessing recent progress following the March 16 contract signing, marking the official commencement of construction.
The Mubarak Al-Kabeer Seaport project is a testament to Kuwait’s growing partnership with China, highlighted by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in September 2023. This agreement lays the groundwork for multiple collaborative ventures, with the seaport being a key component. The current contract includes finalizing the port’s design and developing a comprehensive execution and operation plan.
Dr. Al-Mashaan stressed that the port is expected to boost Kuwait’s trade and logistics sector, significantly impacting import and export activities. By enhancing the nation’s maritime capabilities, the project will play a pivotal role in economic diversification, aligning with New Kuwait 2035 objectives.
She further underscored the project’s importance in regional trade and finance, reinforcing Kuwait’s ambition to become a dominant player in international commerce. The development of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port will create a strategic economic corridor, facilitating smoother trade routes and fostering economic growth.
During her visit, Dr. Al-Mashaan reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the port’s timely completion and adherence to safety standards. She emphasized that the leadership is closely monitoring progress to maintain project efficiency and effectiveness.
The Mubarak Al-Kabeer Seaport is set to become a major commercial and logistical hub, solidifying Kuwait’s status as a key player in the region’s maritime trade industry.
The Ministry of Commerce has announced the suspension of exchange offices that failed to meet the deadline for regularizing their status under the Central Bank of Kuwait’s (CBK) regulations by March 31, 2025. This move aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance financial oversight and compliance within the exchange sector.
In accordance with Cabinet decisions, the responsibility for overseeing exchange offices has been transferred to the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK). All licensed exchange offices are required to comply with the CBK’s regulatory framework before the deadline.
Failure to adhere to these requirements will result in immediate operational suspension, affecting businesses that do not meet compliance standards. The Ministry of Commerce has reaffirmed that strict action will be taken against any entity that disregards these directives.
The enforcement of this deadline is expected to:
Industry experts have emphasized that compliance with CBK guidelines will enhance market stability and bolster Kuwait’s financial regulatory framework.
The Kuwaiti government remains committed to ensuring a well-regulated financial environment. Recent measures taken by the Central Bank reflect the country's broader strategy to align with international financial standards and boost investor confidence.
The Ministry of Commerce urges all exchange offices to finalize their regulatory adjustments before the March 31, 2025 deadline to avoid suspension and ensure smooth business operations.
The General Authority for Food and Nutrition has issued an urgent warning regarding Iceland Vegetable Lasagna, advising consumers not to consume the product and to dispose of it immediately.
The alert comes after plastic pieces were detected in the product, posing a serious contamination risk and potential health hazard.
As a precautionary measure, the contaminated product is being withdrawn from the market. The General Authority for Food and Nutrition has urged consumers to check their purchases and follow official guidance to ensure food safety.
Faqaa, commonly known as desert truffle, is a highly prized fungus in Kuwait that grows in the desert during the winter and early spring months. The unique taste and flavor of this seasonal delicacy make it highly sought after by local gourmets and food lovers alike.
There are several types of desert truffles in Kuwait, each distinguished by their size, shape, and color. Among them, the Zubaidi truffle stands out for its large size, white color, and irregular rounded shape, making it the most sought-after variety.
Zubaidi is the most prized of all desert truffles due to its large size and exceptional quality. It’s recognized by its white hue and irregular round shape, a characteristic that makes it particularly popular among consumers.
While Zubaidi is the most sought after, other varieties like Khalasi, Jabi, and Hober also have their place in Kuwaiti cuisine. These varieties, although smaller in size, are equally appreciated for their delicate flavor.
Truffles thrive in the desert following rainfall and thunderstorms, which create the ideal conditions for their growth. The moisture from these weather patterns encourages the truffles to mature beneath the surface of sandy or clay-rich soil.
For many Kuwaitis, the truffle season marks an exciting opportunity to venture into the desert, following the rains. Enthusiasts scour the terrain for cracks and soil lumps, which are clear indicators that truffles are maturing underground.
Truffle hunters carefully dig for the prized fungus, which is then either consumed or sold in local markets. The rarity of truffles makes them a valuable commodity, with prices reaching impressive heights.
Faqaa is not just a seasonal delicacy; it holds cultural significance in Kuwait. Its unique taste and texture make it a favorite ingredient in a variety of dishes, from soups to traditional Kuwaiti meals.
The desert truffle, or faqaa, is a symbol of Kuwait’s rich natural heritage and a culinary treasure that brings people together during the truffle season. Whether enjoyed fresh or sold in markets, it remains a rare and valuable commodity that reflects the connection between the people of Kuwait and their desert landscape.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Kuwait is evaluating a legal proposal to automatically cancel commercial licenses that have been expired for over a year or inactive for six consecutive months. This initiative comes amid growing concerns over dormant business licenses and an influx of visitors seeking assistance with beneficial ownership registration.
A segment of legal experts argues that the ministry lacks the legal authority to unilaterally revoke commercial licenses. They emphasize the potential financial and legal repercussions, particularly in cases involving businesses tied to commercial centers or long-overdue financial statements. This group insists that license cancellations must follow a procedural approach, requiring the approval of the license holder.
Conversely, another legal opinion supports the ministry's authority to cancel inactive or expired licenses under the Companies Law and Commercial Licensing Law. This perspective asserts that businesses that fail to renew their licenses within a year or remain inactive for six months can be lawfully deregistered. Advocates of this approach reference Article 11/3 of Law No. 111 of 2013, which grants regulatory bodies the right to enforce licensing regulations. They also highlight the administrative relief this measure would bring by reducing the backlog of beneficial owner registrations.
The ministry has identified a substantial number of inactive licenses, some of which have never operated or submitted financial reports. Complicating the issue further, the recent implementation of beneficial ownership registration has introduced penalties for non-compliance, ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars, with severe violations subject to fines up to 500,000 dinars under the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Law.
Ministry officials are carefully evaluating both legal interpretations before making a final decision. Any resolution is expected to adhere to the Companies Law and relevant ministerial regulations.
In parallel with license cancellations, the Ministry of Commerce is making strides in beneficial owner registration. Currently, approximately 60% of the 226,938 registered commercial entities have completed their disclosure. The ministry aims to achieve 90% compliance by June, aligning with recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to bolster Kuwait’s anti-money laundering framework.
To simplify the registration process, the ministry has introduced the "Actual Beneficiary Owner" service via the "Sahl Business" platform. This digital solution streamlines the disclosure process, ensuring ease of compliance for businesses. A recent report by Al-Rai highlighted that 31,700 companies successfully registered within four days of the initiative’s launch.
Under Ministerial Resolution No. 16 of 2025, all registered entities—including sole proprietorships and companies—must disclose their beneficial owners, except for firms listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange, foreign stock markets, or government-owned corporations.
As Kuwait enhances its regulatory framework, the resolution of this legal debate will significantly impact commercial operations and anti-financial crime efforts in the country.
In response to intensified efforts by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) to enforce beneficial ownership disclosures, approximately 31,700 companies have submitted their ownership details within four days. This surge accounts for 4.3% of the total 226,938 valid commercial licenses. Consequently, the overall compliance rate has now risen to 55%, reflecting growing adherence to regulatory requirements.
The Ministry of Commerce has witnessed a steady influx of business owners seeking clarity on the "actual beneficiary" disclosure process. These individuals fall into two main categories:
Ministry officials have advised affected businesses to either regularize their status or cancel their commercial licenses to avoid penalties. Consequently, some business owners have opted to update their records, while others have initiated the cancellation process.
To strengthen compliance with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations on anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF), the Ministry of Commerce aims to increase the disclosure rate to 60% by June. Failure to comply will result in financial penalties.
To simplify the process, the Ministry is integrating the "Beneficial Owner" disclosure service into the Sahel Business platform, providing a user-friendly interface with clear step-by-step instructions.
Under Ministerial Resolution No. 16 of 2025, all business entities listed in the commercial register, including sole proprietorships and various company types, must disclose their beneficial owners. However, exemptions apply to:
The Ministry is preparing to impose strict penalties for non-compliance and inaccurate disclosures. The penalties include:
Authorities will verify submitted data, and individuals found to have provided false information will face further legal consequences.
The Ministry has set a March deadline for businesses to either disclose beneficial ownership details or cancel their expired licenses. Canceling a commercial license involves coordination with multiple agencies, including the Public Authority for Manpower, and typically takes two to three weeks.
To avoid financial penalties, businesses with inactive licenses are urged to submit cancellation requests immediately. The Ministry has reported a significant increase in inquiries and license cancellations as businesses seek to comply with the new regulations.
The Acting Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Duaij Al-Otaibi, has announced the successful completion and operation of major infrastructure projects at Kuwait International Airport. These projects include the third runway, a new air traffic control tower, and Air Cargo City.
During a televised interview, Al-Otaibi highlighted the extensive support infrastructure, such as power stations, fire stations, and advanced radar and air navigation simulation systems.
Al-Otaibi revealed that Kuwait plans to establish the Civil Aviation Authority, which will oversee operations through specialized private companies. This will include an entity to manage airports and another for air navigation services, ensuring efficient and modernized aviation operations.
He emphasized, "This is the ideal and most appropriate vision for the future of aviation in the country."
The new Kuwait International Airport is expected to be operational in the last quarter of 2026, as per commitments made by the project’s implementing company. The expansion aims to significantly enhance passenger handling capacity, from the current 16 million passengers annually to an estimated 25 million, with a maximum capacity of 27 million passengers per year.
Al-Otaibi highlighted that Air Cargo City is among the largest cargo hubs in the Middle East, capable of accommodating over 77 giant cargo aircraft. This state-of-the-art facility is fully ready for operation, reinforcing Kuwait’s position as a key logistics hub in the region.
The DGCA has undertaken 13 major infrastructure projects, including the reconstruction of the central and eastern runways. These will become operational following the full activation of the third runway, expected in the coming days. Additional enhancements include upgraded air navigation systems, weather monitoring equipment, and advanced ground services.
Looking ahead, the government is considering the construction of another airport in northern Kuwait, aligning with the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port and Mutlaa City development projects. This expansion is aimed at strengthening Kuwait’s aviation sector and economic growth.
Al-Otaibi affirmed that the aviation sector is poised to play a critical role in Kuwait’s future, contributing 25% of the national income within the next decade. This strategic vision aligns with Kuwait’s broader economic diversification plans.
Publicly breaking the fast during Ramadan—defined as eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours without a valid excuse—is a legal offense in Kuwait and many Islamic countries. This act not only contravenes religious principles but also violates civil laws designed to preserve the sanctity of Ramadan. Those who engage in this act are advised to seek repentance, as it is considered a major sin in Islam.
An individual intentionally consumes food, beverages, or smokes in public during fasting hours without a valid reason such as illness or travel.
The act is performed openly, making it apparent to others that the individual is not fasting.
The individual does not have a valid exemption, such as a medical condition or travel, which would permit breaking the fast.
For instance, if a security officer or passerby observes someone eating in a public area or smoking inside a car during fasting hours, this is considered a public violation.
Individuals who are exempt from fasting due to valid reasons—such as illness, travel, pregnancy, or medical conditions—must provide relevant documentation, such as a medical certificate or travel proof, to avoid penalties. Islam permits them to break their fast, but they are expected to do so discreetly.
The Ministry of Interior’s Investigations Department handles such cases and may consider humanitarian circumstances. However, those who openly violate the rule, such as by smoking in public, are unlikely to receive leniency.
Under Kuwaiti Law No. 44 of 1968, individuals found publicly breaking their fast face the following penalties:
Businesses operating during Ramadan must adhere to strict guidelines:
Many motorists and delivery riders speed dangerously in the minutes leading up to iftar, increasing the risk of road accidents.
Tensions may arise, leading to unnecessary conflicts that contradict the spirit of Ramadan.
By following these guidelines, individuals can contribute to maintaining the sanctity of Ramadan while ensuring a respectful and lawful observance of the holy month.
The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) has announced a significant step towards improving the country's banking infrastructure by ensuring the operation of the Automated Settlement System for Inter-participant Payments (KASSIP) and the Kuwait Electronic Cheque Clearing System (KECCS) on weekends and official holidays. The decision, set to take effect in early April, aligns with CBK’s commitment to enhancing financial services and ensuring seamless transactions.
According to a CBK press release, this move aims to provide uninterrupted financial services to meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses. The KASSIP system will be operational from 7:00 a.m. to 11:15 p.m. for banking clients, ensuring efficient processing of transactions. Meanwhile, the KECCS system, responsible for interbank cheque clearing, will operate 24/7, with the last cheque clearing application accepted before 7:00 p.m., followed by a response within an hour. However, CBK-issued cheques will have separate processing timelines.
This initiative underscores CBK's efforts to strengthen the national economy, enhance financial stability, and ensure seamless banking operations for customers. By extending operational hours, CBK aims to facilitate timely transactions, reduce processing delays, and improve overall banking efficiency.
The extension of KASSIP and KECCS services during weekends and holidays reflects CBK's proactive approach to modernizing Kuwait’s banking infrastructure. This move not only enhances customer convenience but also contributes to the sustainability of financial services across the sector.
Girgian, also known as Qarqiaan or Garangao, is a cherished tradition in Kuwait and the Gulf region, celebrated during the holy month of Ramadan. This vibrant festival is believed to have originated as a way to reward children who successfully fasted for half of the month.
The term “Girgian” is derived from the Arabic word Qarqar, imitating the sound of sweets and nuts rattling in bags as children collect them. Unlike Eid, which marks the end of Ramadan with prayers and feasts, Girgian is a mid-Ramadan celebration centered around children, generosity, and communal joy.
Children eagerly prepare for Girgian by dressing in traditional Kuwaiti attire. Boys wear a dishdasha (long white robe) paired with a bisht (decorative cloak), while girls adorn themselves in embroidered daraa dresses, complemented by gold jewelry and floral headpieces.
A highlight of Girgian is the distribution of sweets. Families either prepare or purchase intricately decorated bags filled with an assortment of treats, including chocolates, nuts, and traditional Kuwaiti sweets like rahash (sesame-based sweet) and darabeel (rolled wafers).
Some families go a step further by customizing these bags with their children’s names, making the celebration even more special.
As night falls, children gather in groups, joyfully singing traditional Girgian songs while visiting neighbors’ homes. One of the most popular songs is:
"Girgian Girgian, bayt al-Harees wa Riqyan,
’Aatalikum Allah ya al-Sameen,
Khallifa Allah ’alaykum."
Families warmly welcome the children, handing them sweets and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the celebration.
While the essence of Girgian remains unchanged, contemporary influences have introduced new ways of celebrating. Shopping malls, companies, and institutions organize large-scale Girgian events featuring live music, mascots, entertainment, and gift distributions.
Some families even hire event planners to create extravagant Girgian parties, complete with themed decorations and performances.
Beyond its festive appeal, Girgian holds deep cultural and social importance:
Girgian is more than just a celebration; it contributes to various aspects of Kuwaiti society:
Girgian remains a treasured Kuwaiti tradition, embodying the spirit of Ramadan through joy, generosity, and cultural pride. Whether celebrated in homes, streets, or malls, this vibrant festivity continues to bring communities together, proving that traditions grow even stronger with time.
The Mosques Sector Department at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has issued an important directive to imams and muezzins, instructing them to inform expatriate mosque workers about the mandatory update of travel permits at all ports of entry.
According to the circular, the previously used printed exit permit document is no longer valid at any land, sea, or air border crossings. This traditional system has been replaced by a digital exit permit certificate, which is now accessible through the Sahel app.
To ensure compliance, expatriates working in mosques must obtain their digital exit permit well in advance of their departure date. The updated procedure involves the following steps:
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs emphasizes that failure to follow the new procedure may lead to travel delays or restrictions at the border. Mosque employees are urged to complete the process early to avoid complications.
By implementing this digital transformation, the ministry aims to streamline the travel process for expatriate workers, ensuring a more efficient and secure exit permit system.
As Kuwait prepares to celebrate Gargee’an, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and security guidelines to safeguard public safety, especially for children. The ministry has implemented strict measures to ensure a safe and organized environment during the festivities.
In an official statement, the General Department of Public Relations and Security Media stressed that closing internal roads in residential areas is strictly prohibited. Additionally, the MoI has banned the use of:
These restrictions aim to prevent traffic congestion and mitigate safety risks. The ministry has warned that legal action will be taken against individuals who violate these regulations.
The MoI has urged parents to closely supervise their children during the celebrations and avoid relying on domestic workers for their safety. Furthermore, drivers are advised to:
To enhance public safety, the MoI has implemented a comprehensive security and traffic plan for Ramadan. This initiative includes:
By adhering to these regulations, residents can enjoy the Gargee’an celebrations while ensuring a safe and secure environment for all.
The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers has directed the Minister of State for Communications Affairs to expedite the development of the Sahel application, the unified government e-services platform. This initiative aims to eliminate paper transactions across government agencies, enhance digital transformation, and improve public sector efficiency.
To ensure continuous improvement, the Minister must submit a semi-annual report to the Council. This report will detail:
A recent report covering August to December 2024 was reviewed by the Council during its meeting on February 4, 2025. The Public Services Committee analyzed the findings and provided strategic recommendations for further development.
The Committee, through a visual presentation by the Sahel Executive Committee, emphasized integrating all government services into a single platform. The following four key recommendations were issued:
The Executive Committee outlined several operational requests under Ministerial Resolution No. 79 of 2024, which include:
Following these developments, the Council of Ministers assigned two key responsibilities to the Minister of State for Communications Affairs:
These efforts represent a significant step in Kuwait’s digital transformation journey, enhancing government efficiency and streamlining public service accessibility. By fully integrating all government services into a single digital platform, Kuwait aims to achieve seamless e-governance and improved citizen experience.
Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Subhan, Chairman of the Unified Traffic Week Committee for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, has confirmed that the newly approved Traffic Law No. 5/2025 introduces alternative penalties as a key amendment. These penalties can replace the original sanctions at the discretion of the judiciary. For instance, a judge may convert the original penalty into community service, tailored to the violator’s profession and qualifications.
This service, which can last up to one year, requires eight hours of work per day without compensation. Additionally, if a serious violation results in damage to public funds, the violator may be required to repair the damage at their own expense. Judges also have the authority to combine multiple service penalties, which take effect immediately upon the issuance of the ruling.
Al-Subhan explained that vehicle impoundment remains applicable in 27 cases, as before. A new regulatory decision will introduce the concept of "physical impoundment," where a tracking device is installed in the vehicle, and fees are imposed based on the violation committed. If the spatial impoundment conditions are violated, a fine of 50 dinars will be levied, and the vehicle will be moved to a traffic impoundment garage. Additional fines will apply if the tracking device is damaged or lost.
Al-Subhan emphasized that violating physical impoundment is a serious offense, and the violator must designate a fixed location for the vehicle, ensuring it does not move from that spot.
Al-Subhan explained that vehicle impoundment remains applicable in 27 cases, as before. A new regulatory decision will introduce the concept of "physical impoundment," where a tracking device is installed in the vehicle, and fees are imposed based on the violation committed. If the spatial impoundment conditions are violated, a fine of 50 dinars will be levied, and the vehicle will be moved to a traffic impoundment garage.
Additional fines will apply if the tracking device is damaged or lost. Al-Subhan emphasized that violating physical impoundment is a serious offense, and the violator must designate a fixed location for the vehicle, ensuring it does not move from that spot.
In a tragic and shocking incident that has horrified the equestrian community, an unidentified assailant brutally stabbed a horse multiple times at a horse track before fleeing the scene. Authorities are actively investigating the case, seeking to apprehend the perpetrator and determine the motive behind the attack, which targeted both the horse and its owner.
According to the Ministry of Interior’s operations center, officials received a distressing report detailing an attempted murder involving a horse owner and the subsequent brutal attack on his horse. Security personnel quickly arrived at the scene and reviewed surveillance footage, which captured the terrifying moments of the incident.
The video showed the assailant rushing toward the horse owner in an apparent attempt to stab him. In a heart-wrenching act of loyalty, the horse intervened to shield its owner, ultimately absorbing the fatal wounds. The harrowing scene left onlookers in shock as the horse succumbed to its injuries.
Authorities have classified the case as a violent criminal offense and have intensified efforts to locate and arrest the suspect. A security source confirmed that investigators are currently recording the horse owner’s statement as part of the inquiry.
The incident has triggered an outpouring of anger on social media, with users demanding the strictest legal action against the perpetrator. Many equestrian enthusiasts and animal rights advocates are calling for stronger laws to protect horses and ensure justice for the innocent animal that gave its life to protect its owner.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities urge the public to report any information that could lead to the suspect’s capture. The equestrian community remains in mourning, remembering the brave horse whose loyalty and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
The Kuwaiti judiciary has revoked a precautionary seizure order issued in 2000 on goods bearing a global trademark that had been monopolized by a local company. The ruling, secured by Attorney Dr. Fawaz Al-Khatib, marks a significant step toward fostering market competition and eliminating restrictive trade practices.
More than two decades ago, the local trademark agent obtained a seizure order to restrict the import of goods bearing the trademark through Kuwait’s customs ports. Consequently, the Kuwait General Administration of Customs (KGAC) enforced the order, blocking any imports that fell under the ruling.
An importer of goods carrying the same global trademark filed a grievance after KGAC refused to release a shipment, preventing him from accessing his merchandise. Seeking legal recourse, the importer turned to the judiciary, enlisting the support of Attorney Dr. Fawaz Al-Khatib.
Al-Khatib argued that the seizure order violated multiple legal provisions, including:
After extensive legal proceedings, the judiciary ruled in favor of the complainant, annulling the seizure order and lifting the monopolistic restrictions.
Attorney Al-Khatib emphasized that this verdict strengthens Kuwait’s economic framework by promoting fair trade and competition. He highlighted that the ruling enhances the confidence of traders and investors in Kuwait’s legal system and aligns with modern economic regulations.
This decision is expected to encourage a more transparent and competitive market environment, ensuring businesses can operate without undue restrictions.
| © 2020 iflkuwait.com | Powered By AgniSoftwares - USA | Contact Us | Disclaimer |
