Investment

Kuwait actively encourages foreign investments and has established a specialized agency, the Kuwait Foreign Investment Bureau, to facilitate procedures and formalities for foreign investors. The bureau also makes sure that the regulations included in a 2001 law governing foreign investment are observed.

American investors welcome

Kuwait’s strategic location in the Gulf is just one of the country’s advantages for investors. Kuwait is well placed to serve as a gateway to large markets in the region, such as Iraq, Iran and GCC countries. American companies wishing to enter the Iraq market, for example, can use nearby Kuwait as a safe and reliable base for their operations. In addition, Kuwait itself is a promising market for all industrial and consumer products.

The country’s current privatization program provides extensive opportunities for both local and foreign investors. To facilitate the implementation of this program, the Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) has been opened to foreign investors; the Kuwait Free Trade Zone (KFTZ) has been established to enhance Kuwait’s attractions; and regional and international conferences and workshops are frequently organized to inform investors about opportunities in Kuwait. In addition, Kuwait regularly sends delegates to international conferences to promote the country’s investment appeal.

Kuwait has the support of the international community. International organizations such as the World Bank and UNCTAD are providing the Kuwaiti government with invaluable advice concerning foreign direct investments, and UNIDO experts provide technical assistance to Kuwaiti officials to help them in this area.
A long tradition of close partnerships between Kuwait and the United States is an additional advantage for American investors. American experts, specialists and employees are very welcome in Kuwait enterprises, and American products are in demand among Kuwaiti consumers. American companies will find strong support from the Kuwaiti government and excellent opportunities to develop leading market shares. New Yorkers in particular have a good reputation in Kuwait, which brings them an additional advantage.

American investors are advised to work with a Kuwaiti partner that has in-depth experience in the local and regional markets. The Kuwaiti partner can provide local knowledge, while American investors can provide Kuwait with know-how, expertise and advanced technology.