
Kuwait moves to diversify revenue with new MNE tax framework
KUWAIT CITY, June 30: The Ministry of Finance announced on Sunday the issuance of the executive regulations for the Multinational Entities Group Tax Decree-Law, describing it as a major milestone in Kuwait's economic reform agenda and a testament to the country's commitment to achieving financial stability and diversifying its revenue streams.
In a statement, the Ministry confirmed that Ministerial Resolution No. 55 of 2025 has been issued to implement Decree-Law No. 157 of 2024, which governs the taxation of multinational entities (MNEs) operating in Kuwait. The legislation includes the introduction of a supplementary Domestic Minimum Tax (DMTT), developed in accordance with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) second pillar of the global tax framework.
The Ministry noted that the executive regulations aim to clarify the law's provisions, define implementation procedures, enhance transparency, and provide clear guidance to relevant stakeholders in line with international best practices and standards.
Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, Eng. Noura Al-Fassam, emphasized that the implementation of these regulations marks a significant step in the nation's reform journey. 'This is a key development that contributes to creating a fair investment environment and promoting tax justice,' she said.
Al-Fassam added that the new legislation aligns with Kuwait's development strategy, New Kuwait 2035, which seeks to diversify income sources and reduce reliance on oil revenues. She stated that initial projections indicate potential annual revenues of approximately KD 250 million from the new tax, thereby enhancing the state's capacity to build a resilient and sustainable economy capable of meeting future challenges.
The Minister also revealed that the Ministry is planning to organize a series of awareness workshops in the near future. These sessions will aim to support the implementation of the law and provide detailed explanations of the executive regulations to the relevant authorities and specialists. Dates and details of the workshops will be announced in due course.
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