Federal Agency Stops Purchase of Used Computers

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has decided to stop government purchases of used and refurbished computers. The decision comes amidst opposition by refurbished equipment dealers. The press release by the agency stated that it will eliminate the special item number (SIN) through which it signs contracts for purchase of used and refurbished computer equipment.

The final decision has been conveyed to information technology category suppliers on August 3^rd. Further, GSA will conduct a webinar on SIN elimination on Wednesday, August 26^th.

RELATED NEWS:

Electronics Recycling Leaders Say New Anti-Counterfeiting Measures Represent Progress

Sims Recycling Solutions Launches Circular Trade-In Program for E-Waste Management

The initial recommendation to this effect was made in September last year, when GAC stated that purchase of used or refurbished computers presented serious supply chain risks as it may lead to purchase of counterfeit goods, thereby causing threat to national security.

Several industry associations, including the Association of Service and Computer Dealers International and the North American Association of Telecommunications Dealers (AscdiNatd) had opposed the move, saying that the industry had measures to prevent the sale of counterfeit goods.

As per estimates, nearly $15 million worth sale of used and refurbished computers were carried out through GSA supplier contracts.