Infrastructure and Public-Private Partnerships: Key Regulatory and Policy Changes in 2022

Government intends to leverage public private partnerships (PPPs) for integrated infrastructure development. It will overhaul the current PPP regulatory framework by repealing and replacing the Public Private Partnership Act of 2009. The new framework will provide an enabling and beneficial environment for the private sector. This will facilitate increased development and investment in the transportation and information and communication technology sectors. It is anticipated that the existing railway lines will be extended and will see the construction of new railways spurs. The development of the Rail sector will leverage off the Railways (Transportation of Heavy Goods) Regulations, SI No. 7 of 2018 which require transporters of bulk goods such as fuels, sulphur, copper and cobalt concentrates, coal, cement and sugar to transport 30 per cent of such bulk goods by Rail.

Government’s view that the investment in the transport sector has been lop-sided in favour of road transport. The changes will therefore seek to balance all aspects of the transport sector to achieve balanced and integrated development to include rail and air transport.

The changes are expected to address key challenges under the current framework such as reduction of time to complete the procurement process. The functions of the PPP Unit are also expected to be streamlined to ensure efficiency in the procurement system and collaboration of various Government stakeholders during the procurement process.

The earlier you know about the changes the quicker you can prepare and seize opportunities. We can help you navigate these coming changes and help you identify opportunities.