Dubai : Kuwait’s non-oil economy strengthened in October as firms reported faster growth in output, new orders, and hiring. The S&P Global Kuwait PMI rose to 52.8, up from 52.2 in September, signalling steady expansion and improved business confidence.
Stronger marketing, competitive pricing, and product quality helped companies win new business, including modest export gains to neighbouring markets. Output growth continued for a ninth month, while employment increased for an eighth straight month, though firms said staffing still lagged demand.
Purchasing and inventories rose to match workloads, supported by quicker supplier deliveries. However, rising costs in transport, utilities, and wages kept pressure on margins. Most firms absorbed part of the increase to stay competitive, keeping price rises limited.
Economists said the latest data show Kuwait’s private sector maintaining healthy momentum. “Rates of expansion in output, new orders, and hiring all improved,” noted Andrew Harker of S&P Global Market Intelligence, adding that companies are likely to boost staffing further in the coming months.
