Kuwait and Turkey are poised to significantly expand their economic partnership, building on recent high-level visits and a growing trade relationship. A recent meeting between a Turkish delegation from the Independent Industrialists and Businessmen’s Association (MUSIAD) and the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry highlighted a mutual desire to launch new ventures and deepen collaboration across a range of sectors. This momentum signals a promising future for businesses in both nations, with a clear target of reaching $5 billion in bilateral trade.
Strengthening Kuwait-Turkey Commercial Ties
Turkish Ambassador to Kuwait, Tuba Nur Sonmez, emphasized the strong foundation upon which this burgeoning relationship is built. She stated that ties between the two countries have experienced “qualitative development,” particularly following the visits of key leaders. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Kuwait in October served as a powerful follow-up to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s trip to Turkey in May 2024.
These diplomatic exchanges culminated in an agreement to elevate the relationship to a strategic partnership, a move expected to unlock substantial economic benefits for both sides. The ambition to increase bilateral trade to $5 billion demonstrates a clear commitment to fostering greater economic integration.
Positive Trade Growth and Investment Landscape
Recent data indicates a positive trend in trade between Kuwait and Turkey. Trade volume increased by 0.52% in 2025 compared to 2024, reaching approximately $1.08 billion – the highest level recorded since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This growth signifies resilience and a renewed focus on economic cooperation despite global challenges.
Kuwaiti investment in Turkey is also substantial, currently standing at around $2 billion. A significant number of Kuwaiti companies – 427 to be precise – are actively operating within the Turkish market, demonstrating confidence in the Turkish economy and its potential for growth. This existing investment base provides a solid platform for further expansion and the development of joint projects.
Opportunities for Diversification
Assistant Director General of the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Emad Alzaid, underscored the existing strong partnerships between Kuwaiti and Turkish firms in key sectors like industry, trade, projects, and services. He highlighted the importance of collaborative initiatives that bolster local industrial capacity, promote skills development, and facilitate knowledge transfer.
Alzaid specifically noted that the recent meeting wasn’t just about discussion, but about identifying concrete steps towards action. This includes the launch of joint ventures and the forging of new business partnerships built on transparency and mutual benefit. The potential for diversification is particularly strong, with opportunities extending beyond traditional sectors.
MUSIAD’s Role in Facilitating Partnerships
The visit by the MUSIAD delegation was a crucial component of this push for deeper economic ties. MUSIAD, a prominent Turkish business association, is actively focused on strengthening trade relations and building bridges with international partners. Their approach involves establishing memoranda of understanding with local chambers of commerce and business organizations.
With a global network comprising over 14,000 members across 98 locations in 82 countries – including more than 3,000 members operating outside of Turkey – MUSIAD possesses a significant reach and influence. The delegation’s visit to Kuwait included meetings with the Union of Investment Companies (UIC) and the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), signifying a focus on attracting and facilitating investment.
Sector-Specific Focus for Future Collaboration
According to delegation head and board member Selim Sar, the findings from their Kuwait visit will be presented to MUSIAD headquarters. This will pave the way for the organization of specialized delegations targeting specific sectors with high growth potential. These sectors include:
- Energy
- Food Industries
- Furniture
- Chemicals
- Tourism
This targeted approach will allow for a more focused exploration of opportunities and the development of tailored solutions to meet the needs of both Kuwaiti and Turkish businesses. The emphasis on these diverse sectors demonstrates a commitment to broadening the scope of bilateral trade.
Beyond Business: A Foundation of Shared Values
Ambassador Sonmez emphasized that the relationship between Kuwait and Turkey extends beyond purely economic considerations. She highlighted the foundation of mutual respect, fraternity, and shared values that underpin the partnership. This strong interpersonal connection is seen as a key driver for creating a prosperous future for the business communities in both countries.
The ongoing dialogue and collaborative efforts between Kuwaiti and Turkish officials and business leaders demonstrate a genuine commitment to building a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship. This commitment is crucial for navigating the complexities of the global market and achieving sustainable economic growth.
In conclusion, the recent interactions between Kuwait and Turkey signal a significant opportunity to launch new ventures and elevate their economic partnership. With a clear roadmap towards a $5 billion trade target, substantial existing investment, and a focus on sector-specific collaboration, the future looks bright for businesses seeking to capitalize on the growing synergy between these two dynamic nations. The emphasis on joint projects and a strong foundation of shared values further solidifies this promising outlook, making both countries attractive destinations for foreign investment and trade. Businesses interested in exploring these opportunities are encouraged to connect with the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry and MUSIAD to learn more.
