Procurement process in for overhaul

An action plan for changes to the procurement of public contracts must be ready by September this year to come into force in early 2016, according to prerequisites agreed with Greece and its lenders. This includes a new central procurement system.

The aim is to reduce administrative costs related to public contracts. According to the proposed schedule, by January 2016 an integrated, simplified legal framework must be ready for public contracts and concessions, including the transfer of new European Union directives. Among others, improvements to the appeals system and the implementation of an electronic public procurement system must also be addressed.

Technical assistance will be provided by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development for support in the assessment of wholesale trade competitiveness, construction, e-commerce and the media.

To ensure the effective implementation of the reforms, Greece will have access to assistance from the Commission, member-state experts, international organizations and independent consultants regarding regulated professions, trade facilitation, export promotion, land use, education, tourism infrastructure, agriculture and structural funds.