Amid the calls to open up the government tenders to the used or non-brand-new vehicle importers, the Ceylon Motor Traders’ Association (CMTA) yesterday urged the government not to move away from the internationally accepted procurement processes. 

The CMTA, which represents the agents of all major automotive manufactures in the world, said that the government tenders for vehicles are effectively sales agreements between the manufacturers of motor vehicles and Sri Lankan government.  

“We have noted the numerous press articles lobbying for government tenders to be opened to the importers of used cars or non-brand-new vehicle importers.  

We write to clarify that the government tenders are effectively sales agreements between the manufactures of motor vehicles and Government of Sri Lanka. The local agent is often not a party to this contract. 

The manufactures nominate their local agent to act on their behalf and carry out the pre-delivery inspections and give warranty support, etc. 

This procurement process is internationally accepted,” the CMTA said in a brief statement.  

The statement further added that as a result of the government dealing with the manufacturer, they are assured of not only the best price but the most suitable vehicles for the conditions of the country of operations. 

Further, the vehicles are supported by the manufacturer’s warranty. 

“We are confident that the Government of Sri Lanka will continue to adopt the internationally accepted practices and not deviate from their present procurement procedures for motor vehicles,” the CMTA said.