Ku Assumes Chairmanship of the Arab Competition Network for Two Years

Al-Ajmi: Assuming the presidency is a responsibility to continue joint Arab work and build on achievements realized since the network’s establishment

The Competition Protection Authority announced that Kuwait will assume the presidency of the Arab Competition Network for a two-year term, succeeding Saudi Arabia, during the network’s latest meeting, which also saw the appointment of Rakan Al-Ajmi, the 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 network’s presidency aligns with its role in enhancing Arab cooperation in the field of competition protection, reflecting 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 enhance cooperation among Arab competition authorities, support the enforcement of competition laws and policies, and facilitate the exchange of expertise and capacity building.

It clarified that the network’s significance lies in coordinating efforts to address common challenges and cross-border monopolistic practices, as well as preparing research and guidelines, thereby contributing to enhanced market efficiency, improved business environments, and strengthened Arab economic integration.

Quoting Al-Ajmi, the statement noted that assuming the presidency represents a responsibility to continue joint Arab work and build on the achievements realized since the network’s establishment.

Al-Ajmi affirmed that Kuwait receives this trust 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 Arab countries.

He explained that the Competition Protection Authority, during Kuwait’s presidency, looks forward to working with members to identify priorities that address their authorities’ needs, support specialized working groups, enhance cooperation in enforcing competition laws and monitoring mergers and acquisitions, and expand 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, 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.

He emphasized 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 noted 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.

The statement stressed that Kuwait, through its presidency of the network, 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.