Kuwait introduces new regulations to strengthen e commerce sector
Kuwait has introduced a comprehensive set of regulations for e commerce platforms aimed at improving consumer protection, increasing transparency and creating a unified legal framework for the country’s rapidly expanding digital marketplace.
The new rules were issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry under Ministerial Resolution No. 109 of 2026 and came into effect on July 8. They apply to all online platforms involved in selling, ordering and delivering goods and services across Kuwait.
Officials said the regulations were introduced to address the rapid growth of online shopping while clearly defining the responsibilities of digital platforms, merchants, delivery companies and consumers. The measures are also intended to encourage investment and promote fair competition within the sector.
Under the new framework, companies operating electronic platforms must obtain the required licences and comply with existing commercial laws. They are also required to strengthen cybersecurity measures to protect their digital systems and safeguard customer data from misuse or cyberattacks.
The regulations require platforms to display complete pricing information before customers confirm their purchases. This includes product prices, delivery charges, commissions and any additional fees. Platforms must also provide accurate information about merchants, publish clear terms and conditions and ensure that product descriptions are truthful and up to date.
Businesses are now required to establish transparent policies for returns, exchanges and refunds. They must also create complaint handling systems that resolve customer issues within specified time limits while protecting consumers’ personal information. In addition, platforms must maintain proper records of electronic transactions and payments.
The new rules also place responsibilities on delivery service providers to ensure goods are transported safely and delivered efficiently. Online platforms will be expected to supervise delivery operations and coordinate closely with merchants and delivery companies throughout the process.
To prevent excessive charges, the ministry has introduced limits on service commissions. Platforms may charge a maximum commission of 17 percent when they provide delivery services and 10 percent when deliveries are handled directly by merchants.
Consumer delivery fees have also been capped at one Kuwaiti dinar per order, with businesses prohibited from charging more than that amount.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has been given authority to monitor compliance with the regulations. Officials will be able to inspect businesses, request information and impose administrative penalties on companies that fail to follow the new requirements.
Existing licensed platform operators must also update their registered business activity to reflect the category of managing delivery services through electronic platforms.
The ministry said an implementation guide will be issued to help businesses, delivery companies and consumers understand the new compliance requirements.
According to the explanatory memorandum accompanying the regulations, the reforms are designed to address problems that emerged with the rapid expansion of e commerce, including inconsistent commission rates, high delivery charges and unclear commercial practices. Officials believe the new framework will improve service quality, strengthen consumer confidence and support the continued growth of Kuwait’s digital economy.
