Ku Assumes Presidency of Arab Competition Network

Kuwait, represented by the Competition Protection Authority, has assumed the chairmanship of the Arab Competition Network for a two-year term, succeeding the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, during the network’s latest meeting. The appointment of Rakan Al-Ajmi, the Acting Executive Director of the Competition Protection Authority, as the network’s chairman for the new term was announced at the gathering.

Launched in March 2022 at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo, the Arab Competition Network is a specialized platform aimed at enhancing cooperation among Arab competition authorities, supporting the enforcement of competition laws and policies, facilitating the exchange of expertise, and building institutional capacity. Its significance lies in coordinating efforts to address common challenges and cross-border anti-competitive practices, as well as in preparing research and guidelines that contribute to enhancing market efficiency, improving the business environment, and supporting Arab economic integration.

This step aligns with Kuwait’s role in strengthening Arab cooperation in the field of competition protection and reflects the confidence Arab competition authorities place in Kuwait, as well as the Competition Protection Authority’s commitment to continuing joint efforts and developing institutional cooperation among member states.

In a statement on this occasion, Al-Ajmi expressed the pride of the State of Kuwait and the Competition Protection Authority at the confidence reposed in them by network members, emphasizing that assuming the chairmanship represents a responsibility to continue joint Arab efforts and build upon the achievements realized since the network’s establishment. He stated that “the State of Kuwait accepts this confidence with a firm commitment to cooperate with all members and activate the exchange of knowledge and expertise, thereby supporting the efficiency of competition authorities and contributing to the development of the business environment in our Arab countries.”

He further clarified that, during Kuwait’s chairmanship, the Competition Protection Authority looks forward to working with members to identify priorities that respond to the needs of their authorities, support specialized working groups, enhance cooperation in enforcing competition laws and monitoring mergers and acquisitions, support policy development, and expand training and capacity-building opportunities.

He pointed out that developments in digital markets and cross-border practices highlight the importance of coordination and continuous dialogue among Arab competition authorities, as well as the exchange of practical experiences that contribute to developing their tools and enhancing their efficiency, while respecting the legal frameworks and national jurisdictions of each country.

Al-Ajmi affirmed that “the success of the network relies on the contributions of its members, and the value of cooperation is reflected in its impact on the quality of decisions, institutional efficiency, and the ability to protect competition,” expressing his keenness to consult with members and work in a team spirit in the coming phase.

Al-Ajmi extended his thanks and appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Competition, for its efforts during its chairmanship of the network, commending its contributions to developing the work of working groups, exchanging knowledge and expertise, implementing training programs, and supporting joint initiatives. He also praised the role played by the Arab Republic of Egypt, represented by the Competition Protection and Anti-Monopoly Authority, and Dr. Mahmoud Mamdouh, in establishing the network and leading its first term, commending the efforts of all members and working teams in advancing the trajectory of Arab cooperation in competition protection.

The State of Kuwait previously hosted the Fourth Conference of the Arab Competition Network in February 2025. Additionally, the Competition Protection Authority has chaired the Mergers and Acquisitions Working Group, continuing its participation in the network’s activities and joint initiatives.

Through its chairmanship of the network, Kuwait aims to build on the achievements made so far and work with member states to translate cooperation into practical initiatives that enhance the efficiency of competition authorities and bolster their capacity to address common challenges, thereby contributing to the development of more competitive Arab markets and benefiting their economies and consumers.