Public procurement

This report calls for an update to the EU's public procurement rules to make them more efficient, transparent, and fair. The goal is to ensure public money is spent wisely, supports European businesses, and contributes to strategic goals like sustainability and resilience.

The rules affect public bodies that buy goods and services, as well as businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), that bid for these contracts. Local and regional governments face particular challenges with complex rules and limited resources.

Key changes proposed include streamlining procedures, encouraging the use of quality and sustainability criteria over just the lowest price, and improving transparency to combat fraud and corruption. Digitalisation is also a major focus to simplify processes.

The report suggests increasing procurement thresholds to allow more local flexibility and calls for better training for public officials. It also highlights the need for clearer rules on excluding bidders who do not meet standards.