Introduction:
As part of ongoing efforts to enhance regulatory efficiency and transparency the “Competition Protection Agency” “CPA” has issued Decision No. (40) of 2026, establishing a comprehensive schedule of fees applicable to services provided by the authority. This development reflects a broader regulatory approach aimed at organizing procedural mechanisms, improving service delivery, and reinforcing the operational framework governing competition law in the State of Kuwait.
The Decision introduces a structured fee regime covering a range of services, including applications, objections, complaints and requests submitted before the authority. It also formally repeals Decision No.(24) of 2021, signaling a transition toward an updated and more refined regulatory model that aligns with the evolving needs
Legal basis and regulatory context
The issuance of this decision falls within the authority’s mandate under Kuwait’s competition law framework, which empowers it to regulate procedures relating to economic concentration, anti-competitave practices and market oversight. The introduction of service fees serves not only as an administrative measure but also as a tool to ensure procedural discipline and resource allocation within the authority
By formalizing the costs associated with regulatory services, this decision contributes in improving predictability and transparency for market participants engaging with the authority.
Key features of the fee framework
The new decision sets out specific fees for a number of core regulatory services. Notably, it imposes a fee of 5,000KD for submitting an application for exemption, reflecting the significance and complexity of such requests. In addition, a fee of 500KD is applicable for filing objections related to economic concentration application,
The framework also includes a fee of 100KD for submitting complaints, thereby facilitating access to the authority while maintaining a structured submission process. Further fees are imposed such as fees in relation to obtaining a copy of documents related to the violation referred to the disciplinary council, for each document not exceeding 10 pages an additional 500 fils is charged for each extra page when obtaining a copy of the documents. Also, a fee of 200 KD is imposed for submitting an appeal before the disciplinary council against decisions issued by the council.
These fees collectively establish a balanced system that ensures accessibility while reinforcing the seriousness and credibility of submissions made to the authority.
| Service | Fee (KWD) |
| Application for exemption | 5,000 |
| Objection related to economic concentration | 500 |
| Submitting a complaint | 100 |
| Request to view and obtain a copy of documents related to the violation referred to the disciplinary council | 10 |
| Submitting an appeal before the disciplinary council against decisions issued by the council | 200 |
Conclusion
Decision No. (40) of 2026 represents a significant step toward strengthening the institutional framework of competition regulation in Kuwait. By introducing a clear and structured fee regime, the authority reinforces transparency, procedural, clarity, and regulatory discipline.
Market participants are therefore encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new framework and incorporate its requirements into their practices ensuring efficient and informed engagement with the authority.
Feel free to reach out to our Head of Antitrust & Competition Asad Ahmad, if you have any questions at [email protected]
Authors: Asad Ahmad, Head of Antitrust & Competition and Ahmed Al Buaijan, Trainee Lawyer