NDMA to procure all PPEs from local markets

• The decision was taken to support the local industry and benefit the country's development.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will purchase all equipment pertaining to coronavirus protection from the local market, it was learned on Wednesday.

According to NDMA's spokesperson, the decision was taken to support the local industry and benefit the country's development. Chairman NDMA Lt Gen Muhammad Afzal has directed the procurement committee that maximum procurement is made from local markets through local vendors except where the product of required quality and quantity is not possible.

The spokesperson said all personal protective equipment (PPE), except N-95 masks, are being manufactured in Pakistan. The spokesperson said companies interested to manufacture the N-95 mask will be supported.

The local production of N-95 masks up to 100,000 will start from April’s end. Chairman NDMA said that only products not available in the market according to required standards and qualities will be imported.