Kuwait to Chair Arab Competition Network for Two Years

Kuwait, represented by the Competition Protection Authority, 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. Executive Director Acting Director Rakan Al-Ajmi was announced as the network’s chairman for the new term.

This step aligns with Kuwait’s role in enhancing Arab cooperation in the field of competition protection and reflects the confidence Arab competition authorities have 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 the occasion, Al-Ajmi expressed Kuwait’s and the Competition Protection Authority’s pride in the confidence shown by network members, emphasizing that assuming the chairmanship represents a responsibility to continue joint Arab work and build on achievements made since the network’s establishment.

He said, “Kuwait receives this confidence with a firm commitment to cooperate with all members, 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 clarified that during Kuwait’s chairmanship, the Authority looks forward to working with members to identify priorities that address their needs, support specialized working groups, enhance cooperation in enforcing competition laws and monitoring mergers and acquisitions, supporting policies, as well as expanding training and capacity-building opportunities.

Al-Ajmi pointed out that developments in digital markets and cross-border practices highlight the importance of coordination and continuous dialogue among Arab competition authorities, and 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.

He affirmed that the network’s success relies on the contributions of its members, and that the value of cooperation is reflected in its impact on the quality of decisions, institutional efficiency, and the ability to protect competition. He expressed his keenness to consult with members and work in a team spirit in the coming phase.

Al-Ajmi extended his thanks and appreciation to 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 Egypt, represented by the Competition Protection and Anti-Monopoly Authority, and Dr. Mahmoud Mamdouh, in founding the network and leading its first term, commending the efforts of all members and working teams in advancing Arab cooperation in competition protection.

Kuwait hosted the fourth Arab Competition Network Conference in February 2025, and the Competition Protection Authority assumed the chairmanship of the Mergers and Acquisitions Working Group, extending its participation in the network’s activities and joint initiatives.

Through its chairmanship of the network, Kuwait looks forward to building on achieved accomplishments and working with member states to translate cooperation into practical initiatives that enhance the efficiency of competition authorities and strengthen their capacity to address common challenges, thereby contributing to the development of more competitive Arab markets and benefiting their economies and consumers.