New Definition of Domestic Products in Government Procurement Makes Limited Progress

Key Takeaways

• While the definition makes some progress in addressing long-standing concerns, its phased timeline and lack of specifics leave room for gaps in implementation.
• A new 20 percent price evaluation preference for domestic products risks disadvantaging imported products that are often more advanced.
• Whether the policy helps level the playing field will depend on consistent implementation, transparency, and a genuine commitment to equal treatment.