Economy

Seven decades of expanding oil production have led to Kuwait having one of the world’s highest GDP-per-capita ratios. The generous welfare system guarantees free education, health care and housing to citizens, while subsidised electricity, water and fuel prices are offered to residents. GDP growth reached 4.5% in 2013 and is expected to rise to 5% in 2014, while fiscal reforms will help ensure stability. This chapter contains interviews with Faisal Al Ayyar, Vice-Chairman, Kuwait Projects Company; Meshaal Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Director-General, Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority; and Abdulwahab Al Bader, Director-General, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development.