One would have hoped this kind of procurement would be in the past. But the Monday, 7 April 2025 investigative report by Alicia Ortega shows the irregularities in government procurement continue. The investigation revealed that nine interconnected companies were awarded 27 contracts for RD$460 million by the National Institute of Student Welfare (INABIE) that supplies goods and services to public schools. The contracts are for the supply of school uniforms, footwear, and backpacks for the upcoming two academic years.
The investigation highlighted that these nine companies share links through common addresses, familial relationships, or identical workshop photographs presented in their bids. Alarmingly, some of these same companies had previously been flagged by Inabie itself for suspected collusion and anti-competitive practices.
Carlos Pimentel, the head of Public Procurement Agency, confirmed to the El Informe reporters that his office had received complaints from competing manufacturers. He stated that while some concerns were addressed during the amendment phase of the bidding process, others were dismissed due to a lack of evidence, and a further group remains under review.
El Informe con Alicia Ortega highlights that notably, with the exception of Impretex, all the linked companies offer a wide array of products, raising suspicions among procurement experts. This diversification contrasts with the typical specialization expected from bidders in such large-scale contracts.
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Inabie
El Informe con Alicia Ortega
8 April 2025