OPINION on public procurement

Version initale

9. Notes that procurement procedures have become increasingly complexand burdensome, creating unnecessary administrative hurdles that deter a diverse range of suppliers, including cross-border suppliers, from participating, as well as restricting competition and leading to delays in the delivery of essential public projects; cautions that the ECA Special Report indicates that the length of administrative procedures has increased since 2021;

Amendement

9. Notes that procurement procedures have become increasingly complex, lengthy, and burdensome, creating unnecessary administrative hurdles that deter a diverse range of suppliers, including cross-border suppliers, from participating, as well as restricting competition and leading to delays in the delivery of essential public projects; cautions that according to the ECA Special Report the level of competition has decreased and the average duration of procedures has increased in recent years; highlights the importance of continuing efforts towards a renewed, clear and efficient framework that contributes to the creation of quality jobs, especially at the local level, in line with the EU’s economic, social and environmental ambitions; notes, additionally, that the lack of a unified digital infrastructure for procurement platforms remains a barrier for businesses, particularly SMEs, contributing to inefficiencies and increasing costs;