Kuwait Introduces New Regulations for Delivery Platforms to Protect Consumers
New rules bring all delivery platforms under regulation, allowing commissions of up to 17%, setting delivery fees at a maximum of 1 KD per order and requiring companies to update operations by September 1, 2026
Minister of Commerce and Industry Osama Boodai has issued new regulations governing electronic platforms and applications used for displaying, ordering and delivering products, in a move aimed at strengthening consumer protection, promoting fair competition, and regulating the country’s growing digital commerce sector.
Under the new regulations, all licensed platform operators must amend their business activity to “Managing Delivery Services via Electronic Platforms” (International Classification No. 532013) and regularize their status before September 1, 2026.
The decision expands the regulatory framework beyond restaurant delivery services to cover all electronic platforms. It also introduces financial controls, with the total amount charged by a platform—including commission, advertising, promotional services, premium placement and delivery fees—not permitted to exceed 17 percent of the total order value, while the delivery fee is capped at KD 1 per order.
If a merchant chooses to deliver orders using its own staff or vehicles, the platform may charge no more than 10 percent of the order value and cannot retain the delivery fee.
The regulations also prohibit platforms from forcing businesses to use their delivery services or penalizing merchants that opt for self-delivery. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has been empowered to request information on pricing, commissions and services, and may order an independent audit when necessary.
Existing contracts must be brought into compliance with the new regulations before September 1, 2026, unless the agreed commission already falls within the prescribed limits. The decision also requires platforms to comply with the Competition Protection Authority’s guidelines for smart delivery platforms.
The new regulations replace Ministerial Decision No. 10 of 2026 governing restaurant and ready-food delivery services and will take effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.
