India's view of the world · A factual referenceLast updated 12 May 2026 · Edition 04
COUNTRY RELATIONSHIP · KUWAIT
India & Kuwait
STRATEGIC PARTNER~1 MILLION DIASPORAOIL PARTNERSTRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP 2024
India and Kuwait share deep-rooted bonds spanning centuries of maritime trade. The ~1 million-strong Indian diaspora is Kuwait's largest expatriate community and constitutes over 20% of Kuwait's population. Kuwait is India's 6th largest source of crude oil. Relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership during PM Modi's historic visit to Kuwait in December 2024 — the first Indian PM visit in 43 years.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Kuwait actually work together
5 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
FY 2023-24 figures. India's imports dominated by crude oil and LPG. Kuwait is India's 3rd largest trading partner in the Gulf region. Source: Ministry of Commerce.
$10.22bn
Total bilateral trade in goods
$1.67bn
India exports to country
$8.55bn
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$10.22bnin 2023-24 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1961, in 6 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
India-Kuwait relations are on a strong upward trajectory following the Strategic Partnership declaration in December 2024. The Defence MoU is newly in force. UPI expansion to Kuwait for diaspora payments is under implementation. Kuwait Investment Authority engagement with India's NIIF is deepening financial ties. Energy cooperation remains the bedrock. Labour welfare for the ~1 million Indian diaspora is a perennial but managed engagement area.
SIGNALS TO WATCH
On track / positive momentum
In progress / worth watching
Stalled or facing headwinds
Not yet started / unclear
QUICK FACTS
CapitalKuwait City
Population4.9 million
RegionWest Asia
Diplomatic tiesSince 1961
Indian diaspora~1,060,000
ON THIS PAGE
Spot something wrong?
Every page has a suggest-a-correction link. Send a note, ideally with a source.
