Odd outsourcing bidders raises doubts in Shenzhen

The Public Security Bureau of Luohu District, Shenzhen City is in the process of outsourcing its haircutting service for officers. It invited bids for the 2 million yuan project from three potential contractors.

The lucky three bidders that made it into the running include: one hairstyling firm, a shoe manufacturing company and an environmental technology consulting company.

Needless to say, the inclusion of the latter two potential contractors has raised a few concerns among Shenzhen citizens about the authenticity of the process whereby public agencies solicit bids for outsourcing projects.

Citizens question how a shoemaker and an environmental tech firm were even able to offer bids in the first place. Further questions have been raised about the total cost of the project, since a routine haircut normally runs at about 13 yuan.

In response, the Government Procurement Center of Luohu District in Shenzhen said in a statement that, if wrongdoing is uncovered, the responsible personnel will face criminal prosecution in accordance with applicable laws.

The hairdressing program falls within the officer welfare program, so the 2 million yuan figure was budgeted at the beginning of the fiscal year, the authority added.