His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and French President Emmanuel Macron attended a ceremonial signing at the Élysée Palace in Paris. The event marked the formalization of two significant Declarations of Intent between the Government of the State of Kuwait and the Government of the French Republic, as reported by the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).
The first declaration establishes a long-term Strategic Investment Partnership from 2025 to 2035, highlighting a mutual commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and driving joint investments in key sectors.
The second declaration focuses on cultural collaboration and commemorates the upcoming 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. This agreement aims to foster cultural exchange and strengthen people-to-people ties through various initiatives.
The documents were signed by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya and French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot.
Earlier, H.H. the Amir sent a congratulatory cable to Macron on the occasion of France’s national day, wishing him and the people of France continued success and development. H.H. the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and H.H. the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah also sent similar messages to Macron.
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Growing bilateral trade
In 2023, total bilateral trade between Kuwait and France was estimated at EUR2.8 billion (approximately $3.27 billion). Kuwait’s exports to France varied significantly, ranging from $16.7 million to $2.29 billion, primarily driven by refined petroleum exports. Key products included refined petroleum valued at $2.24 billion, ethylene polymers at $7.45 million, and gas turbines at $7.1 million. France’s exports to Kuwait were valued between $711.94 million and $1 billion, with notable products including aircraft and spacecraft at $176 million, packaged medicaments at $128 million, and aircraft parts at $77.6 million. As a result of these dynamics, France experienced a negative trade balance in 2023, importing significantly more from Kuwait due to energy purchases.
In 2024, France imported $3.76 billion from Kuwait while exporting $711.94 million to Kuwait. A quarterly snapshot indicated that in the fourth quarter of 2024, France imported EUR667 million and exported EUR262 million to Kuwait, resulting in a positive trade balance for Kuwait.
As of July 2025, full annual data for 2025 was not yet available. However, the year has seen significant diplomatic and economic developments, including official visits and new agreements focusing on energy, defense, and business cooperation. This trend is expected to continue bolstering bilateral trade.
In summary, Kuwait’s exports to France are primarily driven by refined petroleum, leading to significant fluctuations based on global oil prices. France’s exports to Kuwait focus on aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and machinery. The robust bilateral trade is further enhanced by ongoing ministerial visits and agreements targeting diverse sectors.
