Cabinet approves new method for G2G procurement of pharmaceuticals

Colombo, July 2 (Daily Mirror) - The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval for a new methodology to procure pharmaceuticals and medical appliances under government-to-government arrangements, in a bid to address shortages in the local healthcare system.

At their meeting held on May 19, 2025, the Cabinet approved the appointment of a senior officials’ committee tasked with formulating a system to identify suitable countries from which to source essential pharmaceuticals through direct government agreements. Based on the committee’s recommendations and after obtaining the observations of the National Procurement Commission, a draft methodology has now been finalized.

Accordingly, Cabinet approval was given for a proposal submitted by the Minister of Health and Mass Media to enter into Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with eligible countries for the supply of urgently required pharmaceuticals and medical appliances. Under this framework, direct agreements will also be signed between entities nominated by those governments and the State Pharmaceutical Corporation to procure items difficult to secure through regular supply chains.