Public procurement code

Adopted by the Council of Ministers on 14 June 2012 according to Gabonreview, this decree revises the public procurement code and reforms the procurement process. It makes it easier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access contracts, notably by waiving bid bonds for new SMEs, promoting subcontracting to them up to 30% (according to the same outlet) and applying national preference. It excludes defence contracts from its scope, regulates spending below thresholds through requests for quotations from at least three suppliers and allows framework agreements. It also covers delegated public service contracts. The Directorate General of Public Procurement (DGMP) and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ARMP) oversee and regulate it. Later amendments should be checked with the DGMP.