ADB streamlines procurement process

MANILA, Philippines -  The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is streamlining the procurement process for its funded projects to cut down on processing time and improve the quality of the projects.

In a statement, the Manila-based multilateral development bank said it has approved a new procurement framework that transitions from a standard procurement policy to a purpose-specific approach.

The new procurement framework will be rolled out in phases for projects starting July 2017.

“The new framework, coming after extensive consultations with a range of stakeholders, sees ADB transition from a ‘one size fits all’ to a ‘fit for purpose’ approach to procurement in ADB-financed projects,” said Deborah Stokes, ADB vice-president for administration and corporate management.

The new procurement framework will focus on attaining greater value for money and provide for the use of high-level technology in projects implemented in developing member countries.

 “With focus on quality and value for money, growth aspirations of developing member countries such as use of high level technology solutions will be supported more effectively,” said Stokes.

ADB said the value of contacts awarded in its projects have risen 40 percent to $9.5 billion in 2016 from $6.8 billion in 2013.

Other than reducing the overall procurement time and improving the quality of procurement in ADB-financed projects, the new framework will address the need to bring advanced and cleaner technologies to clients, the bank said.

 “Among other measures, it will allow deeper focus on project design and planning. The new approach permits more flexibility and dynamism in the bidding process allowing multiple stage bidding for complex procurement,” ADB said.

In the course of the implementation of the new procurement framework, ADB said it will also establish a new mechanism for handling complaints that “will foster greater accountability.”

The bank said it will also place more procurement specialists in its field offices.