Military ordered to buy equipment on the open market and offer non-secret projects for public bidding
President Hu Jintao has ordered the military to integrate its logistical support and infrastructure projects with the wider economy to avoid wastage and overlapping, the People's Liberation Army Daily said yesterday.
Military analysts said the order was aimed at stopping corruption and abuse of power in the army.
The report said Mr Hu recently gave the PLA 11 rules to follow, including buying non-essential materials on the open market and allowing outside companies to bid for infrastructure projects.
'Unless they concern state secrets, military projects in sectors such as transport, power and telecommunications must be put up for public bidding,' Mr Hu said.
Household materials and supplies for military personnel, including for building homes, medical services and vehicles, must be procured through the open market, the rules state.
Military publications, kindergartens, elementary schools, sports organisations, and cultural and art troupes and institutions would also be phased out 'unless they have a particular military use'.