In order to combat the novel coronavirus infection, the Government Logistics Department (GLD) has been exercising maximum flexibility to procure directly from suppliers through different channels and means in order to secure the supply of masks and other protective items promptly to meet the urgent needs of government departments. Through referrals from government bureaux/departments (including the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices) and also individuals, the GLD has already been actively contacting suppliers in different countries to procure the masks and necessary protective items globally. To supplement the above efforts, the GLD has also arranged an open tender to explore more sources of supplies for the procurement of masks. However, the supply of all kinds of protective items, especially masks, is very stringent at the moment. Some jurisdictions have implemented export controls on these items. This has made the GLD's procurement work even more challenging. Nevertheless, the GLD will continue to endeavour to procure all necessary items through all possible means.
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