• AmCham Kuwait reaffirmed its commitment to connecting local businesses with U.S. government contracting opportunities, providing vendors with the knowledge and tools to compete successfully and responsibly across the Middle East.
The American Business Council – American Chamber of Commerce Kuwait (ABCK–AmCham Kuwait) held its second Vendor’s Day of the year on August 25 in collaboration with the 386th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron (ECONS), JCCS, and the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait. The event was conducted online and welcomed members from Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia through their respective AmChams.
The program offered vendors a detailed overview of how to access U.S. government contracts in the Middle East. The session began with opening remarks from Pete Swift, Chairman of AmCham Kuwait, who emphasized that “events like Vendor’s Day are critical to building trust, transparency, and capacity between the public and private sectors,” and expressed his appreciation for the 386th ECONS and guest speakers for “empowering the local vendor community.”
Presenters from the 386th ECONS outlined the registration process on SAM.gov, highlighting common errors that can delay approvals and emphasizing the importance of maintaining accurate records. They reviewed solicitation procedures and detailed the requirements for installation access in Kuwait, including submission of the Installation Access Authorization form and valid identification documents.
The session continued with a briefing from Doug Dunn, who joined virtually from Germany to explain the Joint Contingency Contracting System (JCCS), the Department of Defense platform for vendor vetting across the CENTCOM region. Dunn stressed the importance of obtaining a CAGE or NCAGE code and completing the JCCS questionnaire in full, noting that incomplete or inconsistent documentation can hinder eligibility.
Discussion also covered government payment processes, with guidance on using the Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) system, the role of Government Purchase Cards (GPCs) for smaller purchases, and proper use of SF-44 forms. Presenters emphasized that accuracy and complete documentation are critical to avoid delays in payments.
The event concluded with a session on Combating Trafficking in Persons (CTIP), delivered by the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait. Speakers reviewed Kuwait’s anti-trafficking legislation and action plans, urging businesses to remain vigilant for warning signs such as withheld passports, restricted movement, or unpaid wages. Compliance with both U.S. and local labor standards was emphasized as essential to maintaining eligibility for contracts.
Reflecting on the day’s discussions, Doug Hurst, AmCham Kuwait Board Member and DSS Focus Group Chair, noted, “These sessions help businesses move from uncertainty to readiness. From registration and compliance to ethical labor practices, the message is clear: vendors who prepare thoroughly will be positioned to succeed.”
As U.S. government procurement continues to offer significant opportunities across the Middle East, AmCham Kuwait reaffirmed its commitment to bridging local businesses and contracting authorities, ensuring vendors in the region are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and resources to compete successfully and responsibly.
