New Regulation Requires Use of Arabic on Purchase Invoices in Kuwait

Ministry of Commerce Introduces New Invoice Language Requirement

The Ministry of Commerce in Kuwait has issued a new regulation that mandates all shop owners, companies, and commercial institutions to use Arabic as the primary language on purchase invoices. This regulation applies to all transactions, ensuring consistency in language use across the commercial sector. While Arabic is mandatory, the regulation allows for an additional language to be included on the invoices, providing flexibility for businesses that may deal with international customers.

Detailed Invoice Requirements for Compliance

To comply with the new regulation, the Ministry has specified the information that must be included on purchase invoices. The following details are required:

• Buyer's Name: The full name of the customer making the purchase.
• Date: The transaction date must be clearly stated.
• Address: The buyer’s address should be mentioned for clarity and record-keeping.
• Item Description: Detailed information on the purchased item.
• Condition: Specification of the item’s condition (new, used, refurbished, etc.).
• Quantity: The number of items purchased must be listed.
• Price: The price of each item, along with the total amount payable.
• Delivery Date: The expected date for delivery, if applicable.
• Serial Number: Any specific serial or identification number associated with the purchase.
• Supplier's Signature and Stamp: The supplier’s official signature and company stamp to validate the invoice.

Enhancing Business Transparency and Compliance

The Ministry’s regulation aims to enhance transparency in business transactions, ensuring that all critical details are available in a standardized format. By mandating the use of Arabic, the regulation supports the country's commitment to promoting the national language while accommodating businesses with international dealings through the optional inclusion of another language. This move aligns with broader efforts to improve record-keeping and customer trust across the commercial sector in Kuwait.

Conclusion

The new regulation from Kuwait's Ministry of Commerce emphasizes the importance of using Arabic on all purchase invoices to ensure uniformity across businesses in the country. Shop owners, companies, and commercial institutions must adhere to the guidelines by providing detailed invoice information, including the buyer's details, item specifications, and supplier authentication. Businesses are encouraged to review their invoicing systems promptly to meet these new standards.