Kuwait at the Crossroads: Translating Global Change into Local Strategy  

The first panel of ASAR Conference 2025 explored how Kuwait can adapt to global economic shifts and translate them into sustainable domestic policy. Moderated by Robert Willock, the session brought together Faisal Sarkhou, Daniel Kaye, and Ahmed Barakat for a discussion on fiscal priorities, market confidence, and regulatory reform.  

Fiscal strength and investment confidence  

Faisal Sarkhou highlighted Kuwait’s strong fiscal foundation and investor confidence but stressed that the key question is not how to borrow, but where to spend – directing capital toward projects that yield long-term value.  

Policy alignment and labour-market reform  

Daniel Kaye emphasised that Kuwait’s vision aligns with global trends, but effective delivery is the test. He noted progress in fiscal and tax reforms but warned that labour-market imbalances continue to limit competitiveness.  

Legal certainty and regulatory evolution  

Ahmed Barakat described Kuwait’s reform wave as a “legal revolution,” praising its ambition but warning that institutional capacity must keep pace with change. Legal clarity and predictability, he said, are essential for investor confidence.  

Key takeaway  

Kuwait’s success depends on consistent execution, regulatory clarity, and continued collaboration between the public and private sectors. Collectively, the panel underscored that Kuwait’s fiscal strength must be matched by administrative agility to convert strategy into results. 

ASAR’s multidisciplinary approach – combining legal, regulatory, and market insight – positions it to support clients adapting to Kuwait’s economic transition. 

Part of the ASAR Conference 2025 Insights Series: Powering Sustainable Growth in Kuwait. 

Read more from the ASAR Conference 2025 Insights Series