SMEs get a boost as National Fund connects digitally with Customs
The initiative aims to speed up procedures, ease administrative burdens for business owners, and support their growth, with the Customs e-link representing a key step in boosting the efficiency of SME-related government services.
• The initiative by the National Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises Development is part of its ongoing efforts to improve the business environment in Kuwait and enhance services for entrepreneurs.
The National Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises Development announced the launch of an electronic link with the General Administration of Customs to streamline customs exemption procedures for fund-funded projects, reported Arabic daily Al Jarida.
Acting Director General of the National Fund, Hiba Al-Rifai, told KUNA that this initiative is part of the fund’s ongoing efforts to improve the business environment and enhance services for entrepreneurs.
Al-Rifai added that the update aligns with the national drive toward digital transformation and service integration among government agencies, which will positively impact Kuwait’s business environment. It will help expedite procedures, reduce the administrative burden on business owners, and support their ability to launch and expand.
She emphasized that the electronic link with Customs marks a significant step towards improving the efficiency of government services related to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It reflects successful cooperation between relevant authorities aimed at streamlining procedures and providing a better experience for entrepreneurs.
Al-Rifai noted that the National Fund issued approximately 828 customs exemption certificates from April 2024 to March 31, 2025, benefiting entrepreneurs with amounts exceeding 726,000 dinars—before the electronic link was implemented. This highlights the scale of the work and the importance of accelerating the delivery of this service.
She added that the pilot phase of the electronic linkage begins today, ahead of the official launch early next week. This will enable faster and more efficient implementation of exemptions while minimizing procedural overlap between agencies.
She reaffirmed the fund’s commitment to continuously developing its non-financial services to meet entrepreneurs’ needs and enhance their role in driving the national economy through a flexible, advanced operating system.
