New tender policy seen as boost to local firms

By MICHAEL FOREMAN

Local computer makers say they will benefit from new Government guidelines that will lead to more openness in public sector purchasing.

Under procurement policy guidelines which came into force this month, Government departments are required to inform the New Zealand Industrial Supplies Organisation (NZISO) if they intend to contract for any supply of goods and services worth over $50,000 a year, excluding GST.

They must also tell the NZISO about purchases involving public tenders, regardless of value. Purchases of less than $50,000 in value from existing suppliers are not covered by the guidelines.

The NZISO, which is part of Industry New Zealand, will then publish these requirements using its web-based Government Electronic Tendering Service (GETS).

According to Industry New Zealand, under the previous policy Government departments were only "encouraged" to inform the NZISO.

"Government purchasing adds up to around $4 billion a year. This move will really help to open up this market to local firms," said Industry New Zealand spokeswoman Emily Turner.

Ms Turner said there were 1500 tenders placed on GETS in the last financial year, but she believed there would be many more as a result of the policy change.

Peter Shirley, spokesman for the Computer Manufacturers Association of New Zealand, said local firms would now be aware of opportunities so they could compete with international suppliers.

"It doesn't mean there will be an influx of orders to local industry, but it does mean the door is now open. That hasn't always been the case."

Links


New Zealand Industrial Supplies Office