Move Highlights Persistent Imbalances in Labor Market.

The Public Authority for Manpower faces renewed criticism over its management of Kuwait’s labor market. More than 30,000 domestic workers have taken advantage of a new transfer decision, with the number expected to reach 40,000 before the deadline on September 12. Bassam Al-Shammari, an expert in domestic labor affairs, pointed out that the increase in transfer requests highlights ongoing imbalances in the labor market.

This situation reflects deep-rooted issues with the regulatory framework that has limited worker recruitment, causing disruptions in the economic sector and significant workforce shortages. The transfer decision, issued by Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, permits domestic workers to move to the private sector under specific conditions. The large number of workers seeking to transfer demonstrates a pressing need for labor in the private sector and reveals shortcomings in the Public Authority for Manpower’s processes.

Al-Shammari noted several positive aspects of the decision, such as addressing the severe labor shortage and reducing disputes among domestic workers, which helps alleviate pressure on shelters for expatriate workers. He also recommended extending the transfer period or making it permanent to better meet the labor market’s needs and support Kuwait’s goal of becoming a global financial and commercial hub.

However, transferring such a large number of workers may worsen existing shortages in the domestic sector. Al-Shammari has urged government agencies to speed up agreements with labor-exporting countries to mitigate potential negative effects on the market and ensure a steady supply of workers. The decision, effective from July 14 to September 12, allows workers to transfer with the employer’s consent after one year of service, subject to a fee.