Kuwait Times, Thursday, Aug 18, 2022 | Muharram 20, 1444
Joint panel says Kuwaitization process very slow
Kuwait:
A committee comprising of
representatives from the government and private sectors is aiming to rectify the
lopsided expat-citizen composition in the private sector. “Kuwaitization in
private companies is moving slower than expected. A committee of experts and
financial consultants has been formed in order to put forward practical
solutions for the needs of the Kuwaiti market. Our aim is a ratio of 70 percent
citizens compared to 30 percent expatriates by letting go of workers who are not
needed in the Kuwaiti marketplace,” government sources told Kuwait Times.
The committee representing the government and the private sector from the
Chamber of Commerce and Industry will put forward a plan to fix the situation in
both sectors by combining sectors of similar work and through the privatization
of government entities, including the ministries of electricity, information,
communication and health.
“Kuwaiti private companies are very slow in localizing their companies, so the
main objective is to put forth a combined plan to improve the Kuwaitization
process. These solutions include reducing employee benefits in the public sector
and hiring Kuwaitis in jobs where there is actual need, such as the health
sector and some teaching specializations such as mathematics, physics and
chemistry,” the sources added.
The panel will start its work after the National Assembly elections and in time
for the new government’s formation. The sources added the government can let go
of around 50,000 expatriate workers in Kuwaiti companies within three years,
specifically in construction companies, which lack Kuwaiti workers.
“The committee is an important and serious step to unify the vision of the
future between the private sector and the government, in hopes to deter abusive
iqama traders, who have flooded Kuwait with workers who are not able to find
jobs, and allow for more opportunities where there is need,” the sources added.
Notably, the process will include a system where expatriates without a needed
job will be forced to leave by limiting work permits and hiking fees under
strict new regulations.