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BAHRAIN TIGHTENS THE REINS: NEW AMENDMENTS TO CONSUMER PROTECTION LAW TACKLE TELEMARKETING ABUSE

Bahrain's Shura Council has unanimously approved significant amendments to the Consumer Protection Law of 2012, with the primary goal of curbing intrusive telemarketing and advertising practices. These changes will ensure that telemarketers and advertisers respect consumers' personal time and privacy by prohibiting unsolicited communications that disrupt people's daily lives. Manama: The newly proposed amendments, led by Leena Qassim, chairwoman of the woman and child committee, emphasize the importance of protecting consumers from unwarranted disturbances, particularly in the form of phone calls, text messages, and other forms of direct marketing. This initiative comes in response to a growing public outcry over the increasing number of unsolicited marketing communications, which many consumers find disruptive and unwelcome. With the amendments now approved by the Shura Council, they will be formalized into a draft piece of legislation that will be reviewed by the National Assembly for further scrutiny. If passed, these changes will provide Bahrain with more robust tools to protect consumers from intrusive marketing practices while ensuring that businesses are held accountable for respecting consumers' rights to privacy and time. I.  Key Provisions of the Amendments Prohibition of Intrusive Telemarketing: The amendments oblige telemarketers and advertisers to ensure that their communications do not intrude on consumers’ personal time or create unwelcome disturbances. This includes restrictions on the timing and frequency of telemarketing calls and messages. Judicial Oversight and Enforcement: The Minister of Commerce or their designated representatives are authorized to appoint judicial police officers. These officers have the power to conduct inspections, oversee commercial activities, and take legal action against violators. Severe Penalties for Violations: Offenders face penalties similar to those prescribed for fraud under the Penal Code, including the closure of their business and potential deportation. Final rulings against violators will be published on the Ministry of Commerce’s website to ensure transparency and deter future infractions. Preventing Obstruction of Authorities: The law includes provisions to prevent any obstruction of the authorities' duties. This encompasses withholding necessary information, providing false or misleading data, and hindering official investigations by withholding necessary documents. Addressing International Telemarketers: The amendments also seek to address the challenges posed by international telemarketers. The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications has issued rules for bulk commercial messages, whether as advertisements or offering services or goods. II. Implications for Consumers and Businesses ·        Enhanced Consumer Protection: The amendments are designed to protect consumers from intrusive and unwelcome telemarketing practices. By regulating the timing and frequency of telemarketing communications, the law aims to ensure that consumers' personal time and privacy are respected. ·        Fair Business Practices: The new regulations promote fair business practices by ensuring that telemarketing is conducted sensibly and without harassment. This helps maintain a balance between consumer rights and business needs. Challenges in Enforcement: While the amendments are well-intentioned, enforcing them may prove challenging, especially with international telemarketers. The Ministry of Commerce and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority will need to work together to effectively monitor and regulate telemarketing activities. In Conclusion Bahrain's approval of amendments to the Consumer Protection Law marks a significant step towards regulating telemarketing practices and protecting consumer rights. By imposing strict regulations and penalties, the law aims to create a fair and transparent business environment. However, effective enforcement will be crucial to achieving the desired outcomes and ensuring that consumers are protected from intrusive marketing practices.   ALKETBI TOUCH Our team of professionals can guide businesses through the legal requirements and procedures for setting up a company in the UAE, ensuring compliance with local regulations. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, whether for mainland, free zone, or offshore entities. We also help you determine the most suitable business structure (e.g., LLC, branch office, free zone company) based on the specific needs and goals of the business, while also providing corporate retainer agreements. Our team will also handle your IP protection & trademark registration. In the event of legal disputes, ALKETBI is well positioned to provide representation, mediation and arbitration services to resolve conflicts efficiently and effectively, minimizing disruptions to business operations. By leveraging ALKETBI expertise you remain confident that your business is fully compliant and can fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by the new CEPA agreements. Stay in touch! 

UAE EXPANDS GLOBAL TRADE WITH NEW CEPA AGREEMENTS WITH KENYA, MALAYSIA, AND NEW ZEALAND

The UAE has made significant strides in enhancing its global trade network by signing Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with Kenya, Malaysia, and New Zealand. These agreements are expected to enhance economic cooperation, streamline trade processes, and create new opportunities for businesses in the UAE and the partner countries. Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with Kenya, Malaysia, and New Zealand, marking a significant step in its strategy to diversify its economy and strengthen global trade relations. These agreements are part of the UAE's broader initiative to enhance its post-oil economy and foster international trade and investment. UAE’s CEPA Strategy Overview Since 2021, the UAE has prioritized CEPAs as a vital part of its economic strategy, focusing on forming strategic partnerships to diversify its economy and improve trade relations. The agreements are aimed at simplifying market access, reducing trade barriers, and harmonizing legal and regulatory frameworks across borders. Key Highlights of the Latest CEPAs Kenya-UAE CEPA Economic Growth: Non-oil trade between the UAE and Kenya reached $3.1 billion in the first nine months of 2024, reflecting a 29.1% increase from the previous year. Sector Focus: Agriculture, technology, healthcare, and tourism are primary areas of collaboration. Legal Framework: Includes intellectual property protections, investment safeguards, and strong dispute resolution mechanisms to enhance business confidence. Malaysia-UAE CEPA Tech and Energy Cooperation: Malaysia and the UAE aim to strengthen ties in technology and renewable energy, leveraging Malaysia’s manufacturing expertise and the UAE’s advanced logistics infrastructure. Streamlined Trade: The agreement reduces tariffs and establishes a clear legal framework for businesses. New Zealand-UAE CEPA Agricultural Trade: Focuses on boosting agricultural exports from New Zealand to the UAE to enhance food security and supply chain efficiency. Sustainability Goals: Both countries emphasize renewable energy and environmental sustainability as key aspects of the agreement. Legal and Strategic Benefits of the CEPAs Investment Protections: These agreements offer legal guarantees and protections for investors, ensuring a stable business environment. Market Access: CEPAs simplify trade operations by aligning regulations and reducing tariffs. Dispute Resolution: The agreements include mechanisms for resolving trade disputes, ensuring a fair and predictable legal framework. Innovation and IP Rights: Enhanced intellectual property protections promote innovation and safeguard business interests. Strategic Importance for the UAE Economic Diversification: The CEPAs align with the UAE’s long-term goal of growing its economy to over $800 billion by 2030. Global Trade Hub: These partnerships strengthen the UAE’s position as a global trade hub, linking markets across the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. Sustainability Focus: By prioritizing renewable energy and sustainable development, the UAE solidifies its role as a leader in environmental initiatives. In Conclusion With these new CEPAs with Kenya, Malaysia, and New Zealand, the UAE continues to enhance its global economic ties. The agreements not only promote trade and investment but also establish a robust legal framework that supports innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth, positioning the UAE as a leading global economic force. ALKETBI TOUCH Our team of professionals can guide businesses through the legal requirements and procedures for setting up a company in the UAE, ensuring compliance with local regulations. This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, whether for mainland, free zone, or offshore entities. We also help you determine the most suitable business structure (e.g., LLC, branch office, free zone company) based on the specific needs and goals of the business, while also providing corporate retainer agreements. Our team will also handle your IP protection & trademark registration. In the event of legal disputes, ALKETBI is well positioned to provide representation, mediation and arbitration services to resolve conflicts efficiently and effectively, minimizing disruptions to business operations. By leveraging ALKETBI expertise you remain confident that your business is fully compliant and can fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by the new CEPA agreements. Stay in touch! 

KUWAIT CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL BUSINESS PRACTICES BY EXPATS WITH NEW LAW

The new law introduced by Kuwait to combat illegal business practices by expatriates is known as Decree-Law No. 1 of 2025. This law aims to regulate the business environment and prevent unauthorized economic activities within the country. Kuwait: In a decisive move to tighten its grip on illegal business activities, Kuwait has introduced Decree-Law No. 1 of 2025, targeting expatriates engaged in unauthorized commercial practices. This groundbreaking legislation, spearheaded by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, aims to create a level playing field and uphold the integrity of the Kuwaiti business environment. I.   Key Provisions of the New Law Stringent Prohibition on Unauthorized Activities: Article 1 categorically prohibits expatriates and unauthorized entities from engaging in any economic activity without obtaining the necessary licenses from the relevant Kuwaiti authorities. This includes operating under false trade names, using invalid business licenses, or misrepresenting commercial registrations to conduct illicit operations. Empowering Judicial Oversight: Article 3 empowers the Minister of Commerce or their designated representatives to appoint judicial police officers. These officers are vested with the authority to conduct surprise inspections, oversee commercial activities, and ensure compliance with the law. They are also authorized to initiate legal proceedings against violators, reinforcing the law's enforcement mechanisms. Severe Penalties for Violations: Article 4 outlines stringent penalties for those found in violation of the law. Offenders face penalties akin to those for fraud under the Penal Code, including the closure of their business and deportation. The Ministry of Commerce will publicly disclose final rulings against violators on its website, aiming to deter future infractions and promote transparency. Obstruction Prevention Measures: The law contains robust provisions to prevent any obstruction of the authorities' duties. This includes prohibiting the withholding of necessary information, providing false or misleading data, and hindering official investigations by withholding crucial documents. II.  Broader Implications for Kuwait’s Business Environment Promotion of Business Transparency: This law represents a crucial step in Kuwait's efforts to foster a transparent and equitable business landscape. By cracking down on illegal activities and imposing severe penalties, the law ensures that all businesses operate on a level playing field, thereby promoting fair competition. Encouragement of Legitimate Investments: By creating a well-regulated and transparent business environment, Kuwait aims to attract legitimate investments. This move aligns with the country's broader economic reforms, which seek to create a conducive atmosphere for genuine business ventures. Expatriates engaged in unauthorized business activities are now under significant scrutiny. The law’s strict provisions and severe penalties underscore the importance of obtaining the necessary licenses and adhering to legal requirements to operate within Kuwait. In Conclusion Kuwait’s introduction of Decree-Law No. 1 of 2025 to combat illegal business practices by expatriates marks a pivotal moment in the country’s regulatory landscape. By imposing stringent prohibitions and severe penalties, the law aims to uphold the integrity of Kuwait’s business environment. This initiative not only safeguards the national economy but also encourages legitimate investments, ensuring a regulated and competitive market. ALKETBI TOUCH Our team specializes in understanding the complexities of the GCC regulatory landscape, ensuring full compliance with the latest legal requirements and law innovations in order to provide tailored solutions to help expatriates and businesses establish and operate within Kuwait's and the GCC legal framework, by providing alternative. You benefit from our in-depth knowledge, strategic advice, and proactive approach, to ensure that your business adheres to all regulations and mitigates any legal risks, with an aim to safeguard your operations in such dynamic market.

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