Govt unveils policy to prioritize domestic alternatives to asphalt and bitumen-based roads
Summary
The government has introduced a directive to prioritize domestically produced materials and technologies in public procurement and infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges and government buildings. The policy aims to reduce import dependence, support local industries and create jobs while penalizing false claims about domestic goods.
Key Points
- The Cabinet approved a new directive to promote domestic products in public procurement and infrastructure development.
- Road and building projects must prioritize suitable local alternatives, including cement-based concrete and other indigenous construction materials, over imported inputs when technically viable.
- The policy bans technical specifications that favor foreign brands and requires domestic products to be considered from the planning and tender stages.
- Contractors and suppliers who misrepresent imported goods as domestic products can face rejection, withheld payments, blacklisting and legal action.
