Largest number of license cancellations in history of Public Authority for Industry
KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Industry announced on Wednesday that it has withdrawn and cancelled licenses for more than 50 industrial, service and craft plots over the past three months – the largest number since its establishment. In a statement following a board meeting chaired by Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ajeel, the authority said the decision comes in line with directives from the political leadership not to tolerate violations or illegal exploitation of state land.
During the meeting, Minister Al-Ajeel issued a decision to withdraw 19 industrial and service plots in one batch, based on the recommendations of the authority’s board. He also instructed the withdrawal of quarry licenses and cancellation of 22 additional permits and approvals, bringing the total revoked since the new board’s formation to more than 50 plots. The authority explained that the decisions were based on serious violations committed by some allottees, including encroachment on state property, subleasing, practicing unauthorized activities and failing to demonstrate seriousness in project implementation.
It stressed that these measures aim to protect state-owned industrial lands and are not directed against any individual party, but rather serve as direct support for compliant factories and genuine investors. The authority underlined that strict enforcement of the law is essential to safeguard public funds, support serious industrial activity, and strengthen investor confidence in Kuwait’s industrial environment.
It further noted that additional measures will follow in the coming period to ensure the creation of a disciplined and transparent industrial sector capable of supporting the national economy and advancing Kuwait’s vision for sustainable development. Earlier, on May 18, the authority’s board – in its first meeting under Al-Ajeel – withdrew 22 industrial and craft plots, including seven industrial plots and 15 craft units, for violations of regulations and conditions. — KUNA
