Kuwait Seizes Subsidized Food Attempted To Be Smuggled Via Iranian Vessel

Subsidized food confiscated from Iranian vessel

KUWAIT CITY, July 2: In a firm move to safeguard national food security and curb the illegal outflow of government-subsidized commodities, Kuwait’s General Administration of Customs announced the successful interception of an attempted smuggling operation involving subsidized food products.

The operation was carried out by the Northern Ports and Failaka Island Customs Administration, where officers seized significant quantities of subsidized goods that were being smuggled out of the country aboard an Iranian ferry. The seizure came during a meticulous inspection conducted by the Customs Passenger Inspection Office, which has heightened enforcement in light of strict national regulations prohibiting the export of subsidized food items under any circumstances.

“These commodities are subsidized by the government to support citizens and residents within Kuwait. Their export is strictly prohibited, as it constitutes misuse of public funds and undermines national support systems,” a customs official stated.

Following the seizure, the confiscated goods were transferred to a secure warehouse under the jurisdiction of the Customs Inspection Department. Legal proceedings have been initiated against those involved, with authorities emphasizing that violators will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

In coordination with other government bodies, an official letter has been sent to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The ministry has been tasked with taking prompt possession of the seized supplies to prevent spoilage and ensure they are reallocated or disposed of according to approved protocols.

The incident highlights Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to protecting public resources and ensuring that subsidized goods reach only their intended recipients within the country. Investigations into the smuggling attempt are ongoing.