Govt to launch digital marketplace to streamline public procurement

Colombo, April 7 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lankan government is set to create and develop a centralized GovTech App/Service Marketplace under its Digital Public Infrastructure initiative, aiming to streamline and modernize public sector technology procurement.

A Cabinet decision taken on October 21, 2025, approved the implementation of the project under the third work stream of the Digital Transformation Program, Phase 1. The initiative seeks to address inefficiencies caused by fragmented procurement processes, where government institutions currently acquire digital solutions independently.

The proposed platform will function as a one-stop digital marketplace, allowing government bodies to access and procure verified technology solutions from a single system. It is expected to introduce a merit-based selection process for digital products and services while enhancing transparency and efficiency.

The new system will also open opportunities for a wider pool of suppliers, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), by reducing entry barriers and ensuring fair competition in government digital contracts.

The proposal, submitted by the President in his capacity as Minister of Digital Economy, was approved for implementation in three phases between 2026 and 2027. The total estimated cost of the project is Rs. 563 million.