This publication is aimed at countries with small procurement agencies and provides practical and simple guidelines for the purchase of pharmaceutical products. Various types of tender mechanisms are described, as is direct procurement. Emphasis is given to the importance of pre-qualifying suppliers to ensure purchase of good quality products.

This book does not cover all aspects of the drug management cycle, but it does describe the core principles of procurement and various methods of tendering for drug procurement. It discusses the advantages and disadvantages of these methods as well as the tender process itself. Model questionnaires for prequalification of suppliers, model tender invitations and an inspection checklist for drug receipts that can be modified and extended to meet local requirements are enclosed.