Kuwait Mandates Cooperatives to Prioritize Local Produce
- Publish date: Thursday، 13 February 2025
Kuwait is taking a big step toward boosting local agriculture by requiring food cooperatives to prioritize homegrown farm produce. Under a new decree issued by Minister of Social Affairs Amthal Al Huwailah, cooperative societies must source at least 75% of their agricultural needs from local farmers.
Ensuring Fair Trade and Transparency
To maintain fairness and efficiency, the decree mandates that all purchases be made through approved auctions. Each cooperative must assign a representative to attend these auctions, with priority given to Kuwaiti employees to support national labor.
More Space for Local Produce in Stores
The regulation also requires cooperatives to dedicate 30% of their central market space to displaying locally grown food, ensuring that consumers always have access to fresh, national products. Price lists for these goods must be clearly displayed to maintain transparency between sellers and buyers.
Fair Pricing and Market Benefits
To make local produce more affordable, the ministry has set a maximum profit margin of 20% on Kuwaiti farm products. Additionally, these goods will be exempt from the usual restrictions applied to imported items, making them easier to market and sell.
