In a statement, the ministry said that it had concluded a contract for the acquisition of 2 million rapid diagnostic tests for coronavirus, in accordance with the laws in force during the health emergency and in full compliance with the principle of competitive contracting.
In this sense, the ministry stressed it has launched a consultation with world-leading companies in this field, contrary to what has been reported in some media, ensuring that the offers have been studied from the technical and financial points of view by commissions made up of representatives of the various competent directorates.
The tests proposed by the successful tenderer, in addition to being technically efficient, are compatible with the equipment of the national laboratories, which represents a gain in terms of additional expenditure due to the acquisition of screening equipment, explained the same source.
With regard to the cost of this contract, which amounts to some 212 million dirhams (including tax) and which does not fully meet the Kingdom's needs, the ministry pointed out that the purchase price of these tests is set by the company at world level.
It is the same price paid by several European and Asian countries for the acquisition of quantities ranging from 6 to 10 million tests.
The ministry of Health affirmed, in this regard, that it ensures exemplary application of all legal provisions in order to properly manage the resources placed at its disposal.
It called for no credit to be given to fake news aimed at undermining citizens' confidence in the national health system during this critical period that Morocco is going through.