The government has announced a decision to call for fresh tenders to ensure a continuous supply of passports, addressing concerns over a potential shortage. Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath stated that the tender process is expected to take a few months, prompting the Cabinet to start the process now so new passports will be ready when the current order of 750,000 passports runs out.
According to Minister Herath, the government recently acquired 750,000 passports from a new supplier chosen by the previous administration, with printing handled by the previous supplier. However, this stock will only cover the next four to six months, as passports are currently being issued in batches.
"Given the current situation and in line with a recent court ruling, the government has procured 750,000 passports from a new company chosen by the previous administration. The task of printing these passports was assigned to the former supplier," he stated.
The Cabinet’s move to initiate tenders early aims to avoid further delays for applicants and ensure the government is prepared to meet future demand, preventing any potential passport shortage.
