Faster, simpler, less bureaucracy: EPP pushes reform of public contracting rules

We need procurement reform that delivers speed, clarity, and practical applicability. More than ten years after the last reform, it is high time to fundamentally revise the rules for small and medium-sized public contracting authorities. Greater flexibility and less bureaucracy would be a real gain for every municipality,” said Christian Doleschal MEP, EPP Group negotiator of the Parliament’s report on the reform of EU procurement law, following today’s plenary vote.

Public procurement in the EU accounts for approximately 14 per cent of GDP, amounting to more than two trillion euros annually. It is a key instrument for economic development and innovation. The EPP Group ensured that the Report includes a call on the European Commission to reform public procurement rules aimed at reducing bureaucracy, simplifying procedures, strengthening strategic public procurement, and boosting European competitiveness and international trade.

“One of the key issues is the increase in the thresholds to reflect economic reality. Given the sharp rise in construction and project costs, we need an inflation-adjusted correction that allows greater flexibility on the ground. We must cut unnecessary complexity in procurement procedures and provide targeted support for smaller and local companies through more flexible and proportionate requirements,” Doleschal highlighted.

“Procurement must once again become what it truly is – an instrument for solving concrete challenges. Environmental and social criteria are valuable, but their application should remain flexible. The decision must lie with the contracting authorities. The single market must not be undermined, nor legal uncertainty further aggravated,” Doleschal added.

“In times of global uncertainty, we cannot have a procurement debate without addressing the question of a European preference. This is not about protectionism, but about pragmatism and realism: strengthening Europe’s resilience and reliable supply chains, while fully respecting our international commitments,” Doleschal concluded.