The General Logistic Department of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) recently issued regulations on procurement, aiming to enhance quality and efficiency with a comprehensive set of standards.

The regulations were compiled with reference to the Government Procurement Law and the Central Military Commission's general reform plans.

The regulations stipulate principles that all sections of the army -- general administration and public affairs departments as well as troop units and other sections -- must abide by. These include the use of centralized and standardized systems for procurement and payment, transparency, fair competition and effective supervision.

The areas of procurement covered are those associated with organizing or holding meetings, training, reception, scientific R&D, printing, publishing, insurance, leasing and logistic administration.

The rules lay out various sections' responsibilities for sourcing and securing suppliers, as well as the required qualifications of personnel and agencies involved.

Discipline inspection and auditing departments are also required to strengthen monitoring of procurement, so as to ensure the reforms go smoothly.

(PLA Daily translated by Zhang Tingting for China.org.cn, January 21, 2005)