Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, MP, has directed the Bangladesh Public Procurement Authority (BPPA) to take measures to further reduce the lead time in public procurement, which has already been brought down to 54 days. The minister issued the directive while presiding over the fourth meeting of the 10-member Governing Board of the BPPA at the Authority's conference room on the Bangladesh Planning Commission campus today.
Current Procurement Lead Time
The procurement lead time refers to the period from the invitation of tenders to the signing of contracts. The current lead time of 54 days is a significant reduction from the previous time of around 100 days, achieved through the introduction of the electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system and other reforms undertaken by the BPPA.
Minister's Directives and Concerns
Commending the BPPA for its institutional development and procurement reforms, the minister emphasized the need to reduce the lead time further to expedite project implementation. He expressed concern over delays in project execution, stating that such delays impede the government's development agenda. A faster procurement process, supported by greater efficiency, competition, and transparency, will significantly accelerate project implementation and improve development outcomes.
Enhancing Competition and Quality
As Chair of the BPPA Governing Board, the minister also emphasized the need to enhance competition and improve the quality of public procurement. He observed that stronger procurement performance would contribute substantially to timely and effective project execution. The minister further noted that the activities of the Ministry of Planning need to be revitalized and announced that he would work from his Planning Ministry office at least one day every week to provide closer oversight.
Modernization and Digital Adoption
The minister instructed the BPPA to expedite implementation of its ongoing modernization project, ensure mandatory adoption of the electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system and digital signatures, and strengthen due diligence of participating firms and companies in public procurement. He also stressed the importance of appointing competent Project Directors and enhancing their professional capacity to improve project implementation.
Regular Oversight and Decision-Making
In addition, the minister underscored the need for regular meetings of the BPPA Governing Board to ensure effective oversight and timely decision-making. Earlier in the meeting, with the permission of the Chair, Member-Secretary of the Governing Board and Chief Executive Officer (Secretary) of the BPPA, S. M. Moin Uddin Ahmed, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the establishment of the BPPA, its organizational structure, statutory functions, progress of the e-GP system, ongoing project implementation, key challenges, and future strategic priorities.
