RENUKA RAI | Thimphu
The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has introduced the Emergency Logistics Preparedness Procurement Manual 2026 to improve the speed, transparency, and efficiency of government procurement during disasters and emergency situations.
The new manual aims to ensure that essential supplies and services can be mobilised quickly during emergencies while maintaining accountability and proper financial management.
It provides operational guidance for procurement units of central agencies and the 20 Dzongkhags during disaster preparedness, response, relief operations, and early recovery activities.
Under the new system, government agencies will focus on advance planning, framework contracts, and pre-identification of suppliers to reduce delays in emergency procurement.
The MoF stated that the approach is intended to strengthen preparedness by allowing faster mobilisation of goods and logistics services while ensuring fairness, transparency, and value for money.
The manual covers procurement of essential items such as relief supplies, emergency kits, shelter materials, medical and hygiene items, transportation services, repair works, warehousing, and food supplies required during disaster response and early recovery.
The guidelines have been developed in line with the Disaster Management Act of Bhutan 2013, the Public Finance Act of Bhutan 2007, and the Procurement Rules and Regulations 2025. The manual notes that emergency procurement authority is supported by legal provisions allowing direct and timely procurement methods when disaster situations require immediate action.
A key feature of the manual is the use of framework contracting, where agencies can establish agreements with suppliers for disaster-related goods and services before emergencies occur. These contracts can remain valid for up to three years and will outline terms, prices, service standards, and conditions, although financial obligations will only arise when a specific order is issued.
The manual also allows limited tendering and direct contracting methods in situations where immediate procurement is necessary. However, agencies must document reasons for selecting suppliers, including urgency, lack of alternatives, and price considerations.
For transportation during emergencies, the Department of Procurement and Properties will approve standard rates for road transport services, while Dzongkhags will establish rates for context-specific services such as porters, ponies, and other local transport options. The manual also calls for coordination of air services, including helicopter and drone support, through the ministerial cluster procurement office.
The guidelines also address fuel security during disasters by requiring agencies to coordinate with fuel suppliers in advance. Measures may include framework agreements, price ceilings, and minimum stock requirements to prevent shortages and unreasonable price increases during emergencies.
Emergency relief procurement may include temporary shelters, tarpaulins, bedding, household items, food rations, sanitation supplies, water and sanitation materials, and other essential relief goods.
The MoF has also emphasised documentation and post-disaster reviews. All emergency procurement activities must maintain records of approvals, justifications, supplier selection, pricing, delivery, and payments. These activities will remain subject to audit and review to improve future disaster preparedness.
With Bhutan increasingly exposed to climate-related risks, including floods, landslides, and other natural hazards, the introduction of the manual is expected to strengthen the country’s ability to respond quickly while ensuring public resources are used responsibly.
The new framework marks a shift from reactive emergency purchasing towards planned preparedness, allowing agencies to secure critical supplies and services before disasters occur.
