E-GP System Downtime Exceeds Two Months Amidst New Version Testing
Summary
Nepal’s electronic government procurement system has been offline for more than two months as authorities test a new version with upgraded security and AI features. Officials and contractors say the new platform is expected to go live before or just after Tihar, but concerns remain over cyber risks and procurement delays.
Key Points
- The Public Procurement Monitoring Office suspended the E-GP system on August 28 and reopened physical bid submission after citing technical problems.
- A new E-GP version with stronger security is being tested, with officials hoping to launch it before Tihar.
- Contractors say the old system was vulnerable to hacking and collusion, while the new platform adds AI monitoring, auto-locking for firms with five active contracts, and project tracking.
- The upgraded system is being built to meet international standards, including recognition by the ADB and World Bank.
