On 9 September 2026, the European Commission presented a proposal for a major reform of the EU public procurement framework aimed at making tendering processes simpler, more flexible, and more strategic (“Proposal“). The Proposal seeks to modernise a market that accounts for around 15% of EU GDP while reducing administrative burdens for both public authorities and businesses. The Commission estimates annual savings of EUR 650 million through streamlined procedures. The Proposal is available at this link.

A key feature of the reform is the replacement of multiple procurement directives with one directly applicable Regulation, creating a more coherent and predictable framework. The new rules would give public buyers greater flexibility, including wider use of negotiations and a dedicated procedure to support the development and purchase of innovative and sustainable solutions.

The Proposal also introduces a single digital procurement marketplace connecting national eProcurement platforms across the EU. Companies would be able to participate in tenders throughout the Union using the“once-only” principle, avoiding repeated submission of the same information and documentation. The system is also intended to improve transparency and strengthen anti-fraud measures.

To support broader policy objectives, the Commission proposes making the Best Price-Quality Ratio (BPQR). the standard method for awarding contracts. This would require greater consideration of factors such as quality, environmental performance, social impact, innovation, security, and resilience, rather than focusing primarily on price.

The reform also reflects growing concerns about economic security and supply chain resilience. New provisions would allow procurement authorities to take account of cybersecurity, security of supply, critical infrastructure risks, and undue influence from third countries. The proposal additionally introduces a European preference framework designed to safeguard EU strategic interests while remaining consistent with international commitments.

The proposal will now be negotiated by the European Parliament and the Council.