Latest news with #AmChamKuwait
Zawya
16-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
AmCham Kuwait held Energy Roundtable Discussion with the U.S. Department of State
Kuwait City – The American Business Council – (ABCK-AmCham Kuwait) hosted an Energy Roundtable Discussion in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, bringing together key industry stakeholders, financial institutions, and policymakers to explore Kuwait's evolving energy landscape, challenges, and investment opportunities. The roundtable focused on Kuwait's urgent need to reform its energy policies amid growing demand, rising production costs, and heavy subsidies that hinder private sector participation. With Kuwait recording the highest per capita energy consumption globally, and subsidizing electricity at just 1 cent per kilowatt-hour despite a production cost of 12 cents, the discussion emphasized the critical importance of developing a sustainable, market-based approach to energy pricing. Participants highlighted that Kuwait's energy demand is expected to triple by 2035, reaching 32–35 megawatts, which will require massive infrastructure investment. Currently, 400,000 barrels of oil per day are burned for electricity, making up 40% of the energy mix, with the rest primarily dependent on natural gas imported from Qatar. The roundtable also addressed Kuwait's ambition to increase oil production from just under 3 million to 4 million barrels per day, alongside a renewable energy goal of 15% by 2035, with 10% targeted from nuclear energy. The discussion introduced Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology as a feasible solution to Kuwait's energy diversification, providing faster deployment, lower land use, and longer operational life cycles than conventional systems. Justin Friedman, Snr. Advisor for Commercial Competitiveness in Nuclear Energy in the ISNfrom the U.S. Department of State, focused on the potential broad role that nuclear energy could play in Kuwait's energy security, providing reliable electricity and supporting a wide range of industrial applications from petrochemical processing to water desalination. Anwar Almutlaq, Vice-President and Country Chairman Shell from Shell Kuwait and Alex Krunic, Snr. Advisor to the Chairman Commercial Bank (Tijari) Commercial Bank of Kuwait also showcased local efforts in reducing carbon emissions, expanding green bond portfolios, and scaling remote power solutions. A key outcome of the discussion was the call for policy and regulatory reforms, particularly: Establishing fixed offtake pricing frameworks to support private renewable energy investment; Reducing energy subsidies to reflect true production costs and promote efficiency; and Enabling SMR deployment for off-grid applications, desalination, and industrial hydrogen production. Participants emphasized the potential of SMRs in supporting Kuwait's summer energy needs, powering data centers, and reducing land footprint compared to solar installations. With nuclear energy gaining traction globally, the World Bank's announcement of increased financing for nuclear programs marks a pivotal opportunity for Kuwait to diversify and secure its energy future. AmCham Kuwait remains committed to supporting the country's energy transition by fostering strategic dialogue between public and private sectors and leveraging U.S. expertise and innovation in the region's energy ecosystem. About ABCK-AmCham Kuwait A non-profit organization operating since 1985, composed of Fortune 500 corporations, small and medium-sized companies, and prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs, both American and Kuwaiti. ABCK-AmCham Kuwait has acted as an advocate for American interests in Kuwait.
Zawya
01-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
AmCham Kuwait hosts 'The Future of AI: Reimagining Kuwait's Legal & Logistics Systems' in strategic partnership with KFAS
KUWAIT CITY – Emphasizing Kuwait's commitment to digital transformation and innovation, the American Chamber of Commerce in Kuwait (AmCham Kuwait), successfully co-hosted with the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) the third edition of the prestigious Future of AI Forum. Under the theme, 'Reimagining Kuwait's Legal & Logistics Systems,' the event convened high-level executives, policymakers, senior legal professionals, and global technology leaders on Thursday, May 22nd, at the KFAS headquarters in Kuwait City. Generously supported by SAP as the Gold Sponsor and Al-Tamimi & Company as the Silver Sponsor, the forum provided an influential platform to discuss practical AI integration into critical infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, with a special focus on generative and agentic AI. These discussions are pivotal to achieving the objectives outlined in Kuwait Vision 2035 and the forthcoming National AI Strategy. In his opening remarks, Alaeddine Karim, Chair of AmCham Kuwait's IT & Cybersecurity Focus Group, highlighted AI's critical role in enhancing operational efficiencies, improving decision-making processes, and fostering sustainable economic growth. He contextualized the forum's relevance to Kuwait's broader national agenda for digital transformation. AI in Logistics: Breaking Bottlenecks and Digitizing Ports The first panel, titled 'Smarter Supply Chains: From Generative Planning to Agentic Execution,' focused on AI-driven solutions addressing challenges in shipping, customs, and port management. Moderated by Naeem Mirza, CEO of AI Doctrine and a regional leader in cybersecurity and digital transformation, the panel featured: H.E. Sheikh Fahad Khaled Al-Sabah, Acting Supervisor of Operations & Technical Support, Kuwait Ports Authority (KPA), Dr. Tarek Shaalan, Regional Travel & Transportation Executive Advisor (SAP), Sudesh Chaturvedi, Managing Director (GAC Kuwait), and Ajish Thomas, Head of IT (DHL Express Kuwait). Panelists examined AI-driven predictave forecasting, real-time analytics to prevent port congestion, streamline customs processes, and transforming legacy infrastructure, alongside collaborative initiatives between public and private sectors. Real-time case studies demonstrated transformative impacts, notably Kuwait Ports Authority's initiatives aimed at digitizing port operations and significantly reducing logistical bottlenecks. Adding to the discussion, Sundus Bushahri, Managing Director of SAP Kuwait, noted: 'In light of Kuwait Vision 2035, AI is no longer a futuristic ambition—it is a present-day driver of transformation. In the logistics sector, business AI can accelerate customs clearance procedures, enhance fleet management, and improve coordination across ports, borders, and supply chains. At SAP, we closely collaborate with our partners in the public and private sectors to build intelligent, adaptable systems that elevate efficiency and drive economic growth. By working together, we can create a flexible, sustainable logistics network that is globally competitive.' AI in Law: From Legal Research to Digital Courtrooms The second panel, 'Law, Liability & Logic: Agentic AI in Kuwait's Legal System,' explored generative and angetic AI's role in modernizing legal practices, compliance frameworks, and judicial processes. Moderated by Khaled Al-Rashed, CEO of and a pioneer in legal tech solutions, the panel included: David Yates, Partner and Head of Digital & Data (Al-Tamimi & Company), Dr. Ammar Al-Husaini, Senior Director in Strategic Partnerships (Impulse International), Abdulkarim Al-Mutawa, Member of the International Relations Committee (Kuwait Lawyers Association), and Ghassan Salha, Technology Lead (Microsoft). Key discussions covered AI in contract review, legal research, regulatory compliance, and AI-driven innovations like digital courtrooms to improve access to justice while reducing administrative burdens, time, and costs. Panelists underscored the urgent need for robust legal frameworks addressing AI accountability, ethical guidelines, and standards for implementation, closely aligned with Kuwait Central Agency for Information Technology's draft Kuwait National AI Strategy 2025-2028. A Collaborative Step Toward AI Readiness Each panel included live polling and interactive Q&A sessions, allowing attendees to explore sector-specific adoption challenges, data governance concerns, and the readiness of institutions to engage with AI tools. The event concluded with an official recognition ceremony, celebrating panelists, sponsors, and key contributors, followed by a networking reception. AmCham Kuwait reaffirmed its ongoing dedication to responsible AI implementation and collaboration between governmental and corporate stakeholders to further Kuwait's national innovation goals. About ABCK-AmCham Kuwait A non-profit organization operating since 1985, composed of Fortune 500 corporations, small and medium-sized companies, and prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs, both American and Kuwaiti. ABCK-AmCham Kuwait has acted as an advocate for American interests in Kuwait. For more information, please visit our website at or follow us on our social media channel @abck1985.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Business councils host successful Inter-Council Speed Networking event in Kuwait
Kuwait City — In a collaborative effort to foster cross-cultural business engagement, AmCham Kuwait, the British Business Forum Kuwait, Canadians in Kuwait, German Business Council Kuwait, Indian Business and Professional Council Kuwait, Lebanese Business Council Kuwait, and the Portuguese Business Council Kuwait successfully co-hosted the Inter-Council Speed Networking Event at the Park Inn by Radisson. The dynamic, in-person gathering brought together professionals from a wide range of industries for an engaging and fast-paced networking experience. Designed to maximize interactions in a short timeframe, the event allowed participants to efficiently connect with multiple businesses and industry leaders, fostering new partnerships and business opportunities. Attendees also enjoyed an exciting raffle draw featuring a diverse array of prizes, including dining experiences at Crowne Plaza's Ayam Zaman and Al Noukhaza restaurants, complimentary meals at Holiday Inn's Tang Chao, Al Diwan's Seafood Night, and Friday Brunch. Additional prizes included KD 25 gift vouchers from Mezzan Pharmacy, luxury accessories from Alshaya's Next, one-night stays at Park Inn by Radisson, a curated selection of home appliances and healthy snacks from UTC, and a deluxe overnight stay with breakfast for two at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait. Events like this play a crucial role in connecting different business sectors and providing members of the business councils with unique opportunities to network beyond the scope of traditional events. By promoting fast-paced networking and strategic collaborations, the Inter-Council Speed Networking Event highlights the importance of united efforts in advancing B2B deals and businesses in Kuwait.
Zawya
12-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Kuwait's economic growth driven by key trends, regulatory changes and investment prospects
Kuwait City: The evolving investment landscape and economic transformation in Kuwait will be explored in The Report: Kuwait 2025, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Oxford Business Group (OBG) and the American Business Council – American Chamber of Commerce in Kuwait (ABCK-AmCham Kuwait). This collaboration marks a continuation of their long-standing partnership, underscoring AmCham Kuwait's role as a key driver of trade and investment growth in the country. The 2025 edition is a special milestone, marking OBG's 20th year of on-the-ground research in Kuwait and reinforcing its commitment to providing in-depth economic analysis on the market. The publication also coincides with OBG's 30th anniversary, a testament to its global expertise in delivering business intelligence across emerging markets. Under the agreement, AmCham Kuwait will contribute its expertise and insights to The Report: Kuwait 2025, ensuring a robust analysis of key business trends, regulatory advancements, and investment opportunities driving the country's economic progress. The publication will provide a forward-looking perspective on Kuwait's evolving business environment, with a focus on trade, investment, energy, technology, and financial services—sectors critical to the country's long-term growth. Commenting on the collaboration and its significance for Kuwait's investment landscape, Pete Swift, Chairman of AmCham Kuwait, said: 'Our continued partnership with Oxford Business Group underscores the vital role of strategic collaboration in strengthening Kuwait's business landscape. As the country advances its economic diversification efforts, The Report: Kuwait 2025 will provide critical intelligence on emerging opportunities, investment trends, and regulatory developments, equipping businesses with the insights needed to navigate an evolving market.' Cristina Mirica, OBG's Country Director for Kuwait, emphasised the significance of AmCham Kuwait's role in enhancing the report's analysis. 'AmCham Kuwait plays a vital role in advocating for policies that support market growth and investment. Their contributions to The Report: Kuwait 2025 will ensure an in-depth examination of Kuwait's economic landscape, offering stakeholders key intelligence on regulatory reforms, digital transformation, and trade expansion.' Kuwait's economy is undergoing significant transformation, with efforts to diversify beyond hydrocarbons gaining momentum. The Report: Kuwait 2025 will explore the regulatory landscape, business reforms, and investment climate, providing stakeholders with a data-driven assessment of opportunities across various sectors. The publication will also highlight AmCham Kuwait's initiatives, including industry events, policy dialogues, and networking platforms that contribute to fostering a collaborative and inclusive business environment. The report will feature exclusive interviews with high-profile business leaders, including Mai Alowaish, CEO of Kuwait Credit Bureau (CINET); Khaled AlShamlan, Group CEO of KFH; Abdulaziz Ghazi Alnafisi, CEO of Salhia Real Estate Company; Sheikh Nawaf S. Al-Sabah, CEO of Kuwait Petroleum Company; and Isam Al Sager, CEO of NBK. This partnership reinforces Oxford Business Group's commitment to providing in-depth economic analysis across emerging markets, while also strengthening AmCham Kuwait's role in driving private sector engagement and investment growth in the country. About Oxford Business Group Oxford Business Group (OBG) is a global research and advisory company with a presence in over 30 countries, spanning Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. It is recognised internationally as a distinctive and respected provider of on-the-ground intelligence on world's fastest-growing markets, termed The Yellow Slice, in reference to OBG's corporate colour. Through its range of products - Economic News and Views; OBG CEO Surveys; OBG Events and Conferences; Global Platform, which hosts exclusive video interviews; and The Report publications – as well as its Advisory division, OBG offers comprehensive and accurate analysis of macroeconomic and sector-level developments for sound investment opportunities and business decisions. OBG provides business intelligence to its subscribers through multiple platforms, including its direct subscribers, Dow Jones Factiva subscribers, the Bloomberg Professional Services subscribers, Refinitiv's (previously Thomson Reuters) Eikon subscribers, and more. For more information, please contact: Marc-André de Blois Director of PR and Video Content, Oxford Business Group E-mail: mdeblois@ 802 Publishing Pavilion, Production City PO Box 502 659 Me'aisem First Dubai UAE 6th Floor 105 Victoria Street London SW1E 6DT Register to receive our Economic Updates:
Zawya
11-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
AmCham Kuwait and DHL Express successfully launch the inaugural "Kuwait 4SMEs" event
Kuwait City – The American Chamber of Commerce in Kuwait (AmCham Kuwait), in collaboration with DHL Express as co-organizer and strategic partners, Boeing and the National Fund for SME Development, successfully launched the inaugural event of the Kuwait 4SMEs series. Titled "Scaling Locally, Expanding Globally," the event provided a dynamic forum for SMEs and startups to access actionable strategies, expert guidance, and critical insights aimed at fueling local growth and global expansion. The event, hosted at the Burj Al-Shaya Auditorium, united a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, startup founders, SME leaders, ecosystem enablers, and C-level executives. As Kuwait's entrepreneurial landscape evolves, the Kuwait 4SMEs initiative is committed to delivering practical solutions to support SMEs and founders, address market challenges, enhance operational efficiency, and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Key Highlights Opening Remarks: Aisha Alqabandi, the Business Development and Partnerships Associate at AmCham Kuwait, set the tone by emphasizing the vital role of practical support for SMEs and startups in line with Kuwait's economic diversification efforts under Vision 2035. Expert Presentations: Othman Al-Jiran, Supervisor of Business Development Initiatives at the National Fund for SME Development, provided an overview of how the National Fund supports SMEs and startups through targeted funding, mentorship, and capacity-building programs, empowering SMEs and startups to thrive. Amadou Kebe, Senior Innovation Engagement Specialist at DHL Express, showcased how artificial intelligence and logistics innovation are transforming supply chains, enhancing efficiency, and enabling global scalability. A highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled "Scaling Locally, Expanding Globally," moderated by Dr. Arezou Harraf, Founder of Learn & Evolve and Vice-Chair of AmCham Kuwait. The panel featured industry experts including: Omar Habbadi, Commercial Director at DHL Express Abdulwahhab Alzaidan, Consultant at the Youth Public Authority, which is one of the leading entities, alongside Boeing, in developing the Kuwait Digital Startup Campus Reem Sahoury, Marketing & Sustainability Specialist Aram Tchaparian, CFO of CINET Panelists shared valuable insights on essential SME growth strategies, including optimizing supply chains, leveraging third-party logistics for cost efficiency, cost-effective branding, strategic financial planning, and robust cash flow management. They also previewed forthcoming initiatives at the Kuwait Digital Startup Campus. Enriched by real-world case studies and best practices, the discussion provided attendees with a clear roadmap to sustainable business success. Interactive Q&A and Networking A lively Q&A session allowed the audience to engage directly with speakers and panelists, addressing challenges such as market entry strategies, funding access, and digital transformation. The subsequent networking sessions provided an ideal platform for forging valuable connections among SME owners, industry leaders, and ecosystem partners. Closing Remarks & Recognition The event concluded with closing remarks from Omar Habbadi, who previewed upcoming sessions in the Kuwait 4SMEs series and reaffirmed the commitment to empowering SMEs and startups. A special recognition ceremony honored all key speakers and contributors——with commemorative plaques in appreciation of their valuable insights and contributions. Looking Ahead: The Kuwait 4SMEs Series Continuing throughout 2025, the Kuwait 4SMEs series will offer SMEs and startups essential resources, expert-led sessions, and strategic networking opportunities. Future sessions will explore topics such as global expansion strategies, digital transformation, financial literacy, and sustainable business practices. About AmCham Kuwait: Founded in 1985, AmCham Kuwait is a non-profit organization composed of Fortune 500 corporations, SMEs, and prominent business leaders from both the U.S. and Kuwait. As a key advocate for American interests in Kuwait, AmCham Kuwait works tirelessly to strengthen the business ties between the two nations. For more information, please visit or follow us on social media @abck1985. About DHL Express Kuwait: is a division of DHL Group, specializing in international express shipping and logistics services. It is the world's largest logistics companies, with a global network that spans over 220 countries and territories. DHL Group has made significant progress with Strategy 2020. Due to its geographical spread and wide range of logistics offerings, the Group is now better positioned than ever before. With 'Strategy 2025 – Delivering Excellence in a Digital World' the company is laying the groundwork to continue its successful growth trajectory beyond 2020. About Boeing: is the world's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense, space and security systems, and service provider of aftermarket support. As America's biggest manufacturing exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing products and tailored services include commercial and military aircraft, satellites, weapons, electronic and defense systems, launch systems, advanced information and communication systems, and performance-based logistics and training. About The National Fund for SME Development: The National Fund for SME Development is a governmental entity dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship in Kuwait. Through strategic mentorship, capacity-building programs, and financial and non-financial support, the Fund empowers SMEs and startups to scale sustainably. Committed to enhancing Kuwaiti entrepreneurial ecosystem, it plays a crucial role in driving innovation, economic diversification, and long-term business success.
