PPRA finalises draft regulations for public asset disposal, aiming for enhanced transparency, competition

The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) has finalised the draft of the Public Assets Disposal Regulations, 2025, which aim to improve transparency, competition, and accountability in the disposal of public sector assets. The new regulations propose that all asset disposals with a reserve price exceeding Rs 5 million be advertised on the Electronic Pakistan Acquisition and Disposal System (EPADS). 

According to a news report, this move is part of an effort to boost competition and ensure maximum visibility for all public asset disposal opportunities. In addition to the public advertisements, procuring agencies will also be required to publish an Annual Disposal Plan, outlining assets designated for disposal each year.

The regulations stress the importance of transparent processes, with a provision that all disposal-related information must remain publicly accessible until the bid submission deadline. The regulations also establish clear timelines for bids: 10 calendar days for national competitive bidding and 20 calendar days for international bidding.

A key feature of the draft regulations is the mandatory creation of a Procurement Cell in each procuring agency. The Procurement Cell will handle the disposal of public assets, verifying the condition of assets, determining reserve prices, managing the bidding process, and monitoring the proceedings to prevent market manipulation. 

Furthermore, the regulations require the establishment of a Disposal Committee, which will be responsible for bid evaluation and decision-making.

For high-value transactions exceeding Rs 500 million, a Third-Party Validation (TPV) mechanism will be introduced, which will oversee the bid opening and evaluation process, identify irregularities, and submit a report with findings and recommendations before any contract is awarded.