‘Customs’ thwarts smuggling of subsidized food supplies

The Northern Ports and Failaka Island Customs Department has foiled an attempt to smuggle subsidized food supplies out of Kuwait.

The General Administration of Customs announced yesterday evening that the confiscated items were discovered during inspection of passengers before boarding an Iranian ferry leaving for Iran by the passenger Inspection Office.

The customs officials said several passengers were found in possession of subsidized foodstuffs, which are strictly prohibited from being taken out of the country.

“These materials were seized in accordance with official instructions banning their export outside the country,” the statement said.

The confiscated goods have been stored in the Passenger Inspection Department’s warehouse, pending legal procedures.

Customs authorities have also sent an official letter to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, requesting coordination with relevant departments to collect the seized items and ensure they are disposed of promptly, in line with applicable regulations, to prevent spoilage.

The operation is part of Customs’ broader efforts to protect national food security and clamp down on the illegal export of subsidized products.