Kuwait amends anti-money laundering law to align with UNSC resolutions

The Council of Ministers has issued Decree-Law No. (76) of 2025, amending Law No. (106) of 2013 to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.

This move reaffirms Kuwait’s commitment to fulfilling international obligations, particularly those stemming from United Nations Security Council resolutions to counter terrorism and prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, reports Al-Jarida daily.

Among the key amendments is the replacement of Article (25), granting the Council of Ministers the authority to issue decisions to implement Security Council directives.

These decisions may include listing individuals and entities, banning any dealings with them, and freezing their assets — provided such actions do not infringe on the rights of bona fide third parties.

Additionally, a new provision — Article (33 bis) — has been introduced, stipulating that anyone who violates these listing or asset-freezing orders shall face a financial penalty ranging from KD 10,000 to KD 500,000. This is without prejudice to any other applicable legal penalties.

According to the explanatory memorandum, the amendments are intended to reinforce Kuwait’s alignment with international standards, ensure the protection of good-faith parties, and equip relevant authorities with the tools needed to respond swiftly and effectively to evolving threats.