Public projects must use local tiles, lifts: Ecnec

The government’s highest project reviewing body has made it compulsory to use locally made tiles and elevators in public building construction projects instead of imported alternatives.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) in June, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, according to Planning Commission documents seen by The Daily Star. The directive has already been sent to all ministries and divisions.

Manufacturers have welcomed the move, saying it will strengthen local industry.

Giving preference to local manufacturers in public procurement is not new. Existing rules already encourage government agencies to buy domestic materials. Local companies have supplied products for major projects such as the Padma Bridge and Dhaka metro rail.

Giving preference to local manufacturers in public procurement is not new. Existing rules already encourage government agencies to buy domestic materials. Local companies have supplied products for major projects such as the Padma Bridge and Dhaka metro rail.