Article 1501
Purpose
The Parties recognise the importance of government procurement to their economies and the importance of covering government procurement in this Agreement at the earliest opportunity.
Article 1502
Establishment of Working Group
- A Working Group consisting of government representatives of the Parties having responsibility for government procurement is hereby established.
- The Working Group shall meet regularly to discuss all relevant issues.
- The Working Group shall report to the FTAJoint Commission within 12 months of the entry into force of this Agreement with recommendations on the scope for commencing bilateral negotiations to bring government procurement under this Agreement and the coverage of such negotiations.
Article 1503
Procurement Principles
In preparation for the outcome of the negotiations mandated by Article 1502, the Parties shall, to the extent possible, promote and apply transparency, value for money, open and effective competition, fair dealing, accountability and due process, and non-discrimination in their government procurement procedures.
Article 1504
Exchange of Information on Government Procurement
The Parties shall, subject to their laws, regulationsand policies, exchange information in respect of their government procurement policies and practices.
Article 1505
Dispute Settlement
Chapter 18 shall not apply to this Chapter unless specifically authorised by the further negotiations mandated by Article 1502.