Kuwait has introduced new regulations restricting the use of cash in several service industries, now requiring payments above KD 10 to be made through electronic or banking channels. The decision was issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry led by Minister Osama Boude as part of efforts to increase financial transparency and standardize payment practices across the country. The restrictions apply to a range of businesses, including health facilities, men’s and women’s salons, children’s salons, sports clubs and companies involved in pest and rodent control. It also covers activities related to the import, export and storage of public health pesticides. Under the new regulations, any transaction exceeding 10 dinars must be processed through a banking system or electronic payment method recognized by the Central Bank of Kuwait. Only cash payments are allowed for amounts below this threshold. The authorities said the move was aimed at strengthening supervision of financial transactions, reducing reliance on cash and encouraging wider adoption of secure digital payment systems by regulated sectors. The decision is part of a wider effort to align business practices with financial regulations and improve accountability for day-to-day business transactions.
