Competition Protection Authority: Kuwait to Chair Arab Competition Network for Two Years - Sarmad

The Competition Protection Authority announced that Kuwait has assumed the presidency of the “Arab Competition Network” for a two-year term, succeeding the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This followed the network’s latest meeting, which appointed Rakan Al-Ajmi, the Acting Executive Director of the Authority, as the network’s president for its new term.

In a press statement issued on Sunday, the Authority stated that Kuwait’s assumption of the presidency aligns with its role in enhancing Arab cooperation in the field of competition protection. It also reflects the confidence Arab competition authorities have in Kuwait and their commitment to continuing joint efforts and developing institutional cooperation among member states.

The Authority added that the Arab Competition Network, launched in March 2022 at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo, serves as a specialized platform to strengthen cooperation among Arab competition authorities, support the enforcement of competition laws and policies, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and build capacity.

It clarified that the network’s significance lies in coordinating efforts to address common challenges and cross-border anti-competitive practices, as well as conducting research and preparing guidelines. These initiatives contribute to enhancing market efficiency, improving the business environment, and supporting Arab economic integration.

The statement quoted Al-Ajmi as saying that assuming the presidency entails a responsibility to continue joint Arab efforts and build upon the achievements made since the network’s establishment.

He emphasized that Kuwait accepts this trust 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 Arab countries.

Al-Ajmi explained that during Kuwait’s presidency, the Competition Protection Authority looks forward to working with members to identify priorities that address their authorities’ needs, support specialized working groups, and enhance cooperation in enforcing competition laws and monitoring mergers and acquisitions, alongside expanding training and capacity-building opportunities.

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

Al-Ajmi affirmed that the network’s success depends 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.

The statement pointed out that Kuwait hosted the fourth conference of the Arab Competition Network in February 2025, while the Competition Protection Authority assumed the presidency of the Mergers and Acquisitions Working Group, extending its participation in the network’s activities and joint initiatives.

He stressed Kuwait’s aspiration, through its presidency of the network, to build on achieved accomplishments and work with member states to translate cooperation into practical initiatives that enhance the efficiency of competition authorities and strengthen their capacity to address common challenges. This will contribute to developing more competitive Arab markets, benefiting their economies and consumers.