Kuwait to Suspend Ration Cards of Kuwaitis Caught Reselling Subsidized Goods

According to the Arab Times Kuwait, the Kuwaiti Minister of Trade and Industry, Osama Boodai, has issued Ministerial Decree No. 154 of 2026, which introduces stricter regulations regarding the eligibility for subsidized goods. The decree specifically targets the misuse of the national ration card system, which provides essential commodities to citizens at reduced prices.

Under the new rules, the government will suspend the ration cards of any Kuwaiti nationals found to be reselling subsidized goods on the secondary market. This move is part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Trade and Industry to curb the exploitation of state-funded welfare programs and ensure that subsidized supplies reach their intended recipients rather than being diverted for private profit.

The ministry has indicated that it will implement a monitoring system to track the distribution and sale of these goods. Officials stated that the suspension of ration cards serves as a deterrent against the unauthorized commercialization of state-subsidized items. The decree is expected to take effect immediately, with the ministry calling on citizens to report any observed irregularities in the distribution process to help maintain the integrity of the subsidy program.