A bill has been placed in the Jatiya Sangsad to amend the Public Procurement Act, incorporating provisions that prohibit imposing eligibility criteria which unnecessarily limit participation by newly registered individuals or nascent entrepreneurs.
Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury introduced the 'Public Procurement (Second Amendment) Bill' on Wednesday (November 11). The bill has been referred to the parliamentary standing committee on the Ministry of Planning for scrutiny and report.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill stipulates that long-term experience, high annual turnover, prior experience with government entities, or experience in executing a single large contract cannot be set as mandatory eligibility criteria. The relaxation of these conditions is expected to create greater opportunities for new entrepreneurs and young businesses to participate in the public procurement process.Earlier in September, the government had promulgated an ordinance on this matter. The bill has been introduced to repeal that ordinance and formalize the amendments through legislation.
Preference for Local Goods
The proposed law also includes provisions requiring foreign bidders to partner with local entities. Additionally, it proposes giving preference to locally manufactured goods in government procurement, aiming to bolster domestic industry and the national economy.Following the committee's review and report, the bill will return to Parliament for final approval. Analysts suggest that the amendment, once enacted, will enhance transparency and inclusivity in the public procurement system.
