Kuwait's non-oil private sector posted its second-fastest output expansion on record in April, driven by a sharp rise in new orders and competitive pricing, according to S&P Global. The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) climbed to a five-month high of 54.2, up from 52.3 in March, marking the eighth consecutive month of improved business conditions. Despite the strong demand, firms kept output prices largely stable to remain competitive, even as input costs surged at the fastest pace in a year, fuelled by spending on advertising, transport, and equipment maintenance. To contain operating expenses, hiring remained modest, contributing to a build-up in backlogs. Purchasing activity and input stocks increased, while suppliers responded with the quickest delivery times since December 2023. New business, including exports, rose at the strongest rate in 2025 so far, supported by marketing and pricing strategies. However, optimism dipped slightly from March as firms weighed whether to maintain tight pricing amid rising cost pressures. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
