KUWAIT: As part of the 11-day Discover America event, the US Embassy along with the American Business Council Kuwait (ABCK) hosted a business consulting event on 'How to supply US military bases' at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Fahaheel. Around 300 attendees interacted with speakers, mostly from the Regional Contracting Center - Army Contracting Command and 386th Air Expeditionary Wing - US Air Forces Central Command, Ali Al-Salem Air Base. The event covered base access, contracting opportunities, proposal requirements, payment processes, among other topics.

According to US Embassy Senior Commercial Officer Shari Stout, local companies in Kuwait desiring to sell to the US military need some knowhow to enter the process, since contracting with the military base is an admittedly complicated subject. "In US military camps in Kuwait alone, we have around 10,000-16,000 US servicemen. The number is huge and it's an opportunity for local businessmen to transact with us, as we need supplies, literally from 'soups to nuts' - almost everything. So we can share techniques for the greater benefit of both sides," she said.

US military camps normally outsource their products and needs from various local companies. Ross Lindsey, Commander 408th Contracting Support Brigade, Regional Contracting Center-Kuwait, said it is necessary for companies to know the requirements to secure contracts with US military bases. "Suppliers should know the regulatory and federal requirements in the US army when securing supply contracts from a US military base. The three main areas are commodities, services and logistics. There are more, like construction," he said. The event was part of 'Discover America' which highlights US culture, tradition, music, food, restaurants, cars, education and more.

By Ben Garcia