In March 2026, the European Commission unveiled its Industrial Accelerator Act, a major reform set to transform public procurement across the European Union. With €2,500 billion spent annually on public contracts (approximately 15% of EU GDP), the stakes are enormous. Here's a breakdown of the key changes.
A context of European industrial revival
The Industrial Accelerator Act is part of the European Commission's drive to strengthen the continent's industrial competitiveness. Facing growing international competition, the EU is leveraging public procurement as a strategic tool to support its businesses and accelerate the energy and digital transitions.
This plan is accompanied by massive infrastructure investments, notably Germany's €500 billion infrastructure plan, which further amplifies the volume of available contracts.
New European thresholds 2026-2027
The reform introduces revised European thresholds that determine when a contract must be published at EU level (TED). The main changes:
- Raised thresholds for certain categories, making mid-sized contracts more accessible
- Simplified procedures below the new thresholds
- Gradual implementation between 2026 and 2027
"Made in EU" and low-carbon requirements
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of European content requirements in certain strategic public contracts. Contracting authorities will now be able to favour "Made in EU" products and services, particularly in the defence, energy, and critical technology sectors.
Furthermore, environmental criteria are gaining importance: companies offering low-carbon solutions will benefit from a competitive advantage in bid evaluation. This is excellent news for European businesses committed to the green transition.
Simplified access for SMEs
The reform places particular emphasis on accessibility for SMEs:
- 1. Enhanced lot splitting — Increased obligation to divide contracts into lots so SMEs can bid
- 2. Simplified applications — Reduced administrative requirements at submission stage
- 3. Shorter payment deadlines — Payment time limits to prevent cash flow issues for SMEs
- 4. Accelerated digitalisation — Widespread adoption of electronic platforms to simplify bidding
What this means for your business
For Belgian and European businesses, this reform represents a major opportunity. The overall volume of public contracts continues to grow, rules are being simplified, and selection criteria are evolving in favour of local and responsible players. Companies that prepare now — by structuring their monitoring, adapting their bids to environmental criteria, and mastering the new procedures — will be best positioned to benefit.