ENG-2015 — Page 88

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The Economy

Government Procurement

Hong Kong, China is a signatory to the Agreement on Government Procurement of the World Trade Organisation (WTO GPA). Government procurement is undertaken in accordance with the principles of openness, transparency, fairness, public accountability, value for money and non-discrimination. Open tender procedures are widely used. Restricted or single tender procedures may be used under exceptional circumstances where open competitive tendering would not be appropriate.

The Government Logistics Department is the government's central procurement agent. It normally purchases goods and related services through competitive tendering to meet user departments' needs at the best possible prices, having regard to the lifetime cost and reliability of supply. Consideration is given to buying environmentally friendly products where available and appropriate. In 2015, the department awarded contracts amounting to $5.16 billion, with goods and related services procured from 24 different countries or territories, including Hong Kong.

To facilitate sourcing and market research, the department maintains supplier lists for different. categories of goods and services. It publishes notices for open tenders on the internet and notifies suppliers on the relevant supplier lists. For procurements covered by the WTO GPA, tender notices are also published in the Government Gazette. Consulates and overseas trade commissions are informed where appropriate. Bidders may download tender documents and submit tender offers through the prescribed internet system.

Websites

Economic Analysis and Business Facilitation Unit, Financial Secretary's Office: www.eabfu.gov.hk Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau: www.fstb.gov.hk

Government Logistics Department: www.gld.gov.hk

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