Colombo, May 14 (Daily Mirror) – Trade union representatives within the Excise Department have alleged that the Finance Ministry is preparing to award a tender for printing security labels on alcohol products to a company lacking international experience and qualifications.

According to the unions, the Excise Department began drafting procurement criteria following Cabinet approval last week to initiate the tender process for security label printing.

The trade unions further claim that certain officials within the department are attempting to tailor procurement requirements in a manner that would allow an unqualified company to secure the contract. They also allege that some officials within the Ministry of Finance are supporting these efforts.

Warning of potential risks, union representatives stated that awarding the contract to an unqualified firm could lead to a situation similar to previous controversial procurement cases, including the coal tender. They have called on the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, to intervene in the matter.

In response, Excise Commissioner General Retired Commodore M.B.N.A. Premaratne rejected the allegations, stating that tender criteria will not be designed to favor any particular company. He emphasized that both local and foreign companies, including the previous supplier of security labels, will be eligible to participate.

He further said that the procurement process is still in its early stages and assured that no conditions will be included that could disadvantage the Excise Department or unfairly benefit any bidder.