ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s IT and telecom sector has urged the government to end direct government-to-government contracting for public projects, warning that the current system is limiting opportunities for private companies and weakening competition.
The Telecom Operators Association has written to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, seeking the removal of Rule 42(f) of the Public Procurement Rules, 2004.
The association argued that direct G2G contracts have reduced the space available to private IT and telecom companies and are affecting the development of locally produced digital products and services.
It called for equal and competitive opportunities for state-owned enterprises and private companies in government projects.
According to the association, preferential access for state entities can create an uneven playing field and may reduce incentives for efficiency and innovation.
The letter also raised concerns over cases in which state-owned enterprises secure G2G projects and then subcontract work to private firms.
Industry representatives said public procurement should follow transparent and competitive procedures to ensure fair access for all qualified companies.
The association maintained that greater competition would help improve efficiency, encourage innovation and support the growth of Pakistan’s domestic digital economy.
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