Includes special features of this country’s banking system and rules/laws that might impact U.S. business.
Last Published: 10/30/2018
Banks are under the supervision of the Kuwait Central Bank. The banking sector is fundamentally sound. Kuwait has 11 local commercial banks, which include five Islamic banks. The largest bank is the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK). Following an amendment to the Banking Law of 1968, the National Assembly allowed foreign banks to establish operations in Kuwait. Currently, 12 foreign banks have branches in Kuwait. Well-known financial conglomerates such as Citi Bank, BNP-Paribas, and HSBC operate in Kuwait.
 
Two specialized government-owned banks provide medium and long-term financing.  The Industrial Bank of Kuwait offers financing for industrial and agricultural related projects. The Credit and Savings Bank facilitates the purchase of single-family or multi-family residential units.
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Kuwait Market Access Banks