The Cabo Verdean government has given China Xinxing Import and Export Co. Ltd a contract worth 12 million escudos (US$121,300) to clothe and equip the Cabo Verdean armed forces, Lusa reports.

The Portuguese news agency, citing an official announcement, says the contract was not put out to public tender because no Cabo Verdean company was qualified to bid for it.

The report says the Cabo Verdean army has had problems with its present equipment which make it dangerous for soldiers to use.

State-owned China Xinxing supplies armed forces and police forces around the world with uniforms and other kit, making annual revenue of over US$300 million, Lusa says.