Public procurements are formal contracts established between governmental bodies and private entities for the supply of goods, provision of services, or the execution of infrastructure projects. Given they are financed from the public purse, they're framed by a set of norms and procedures tailored to foster a level playing field, promoting transparent and equitable competition among suppliers.
In Belgium, as well as within the European Union, the public procurement ecosystem is structured around stringent legislation, which includes:
EU Directives: These directives serve as a compass for member states, laying down foundational principles and procedures to be adhered to. They reflect current best practices and are periodically reviewed to adapt to economic, technological, and societal shifts.
Belgian Legislation: In Belgium, European directives are translated into national statutory texts. The law of June 17, 2016, stands as a testament to this effort and acts as the linchpin for the execution of local public procurements.
When Belgian public bodies release a tender, they must be mindful of the financial thresholds set by the EU. These thresholds determine which type of procedure should be followed, such as open, restricted, or negotiated procedures. These limits are revised to reflect the prevailing economic dynamics.
A typical tendering procedure in Belgium traverses multiple stages, from the official release of the tender notice, the prequalification of bidders, to the detailed evaluation of proposals and eventual contract award. Evaluation criteria hinge on a range of indicators, such as total cost, technical proficiency, ecological viability, innovation potential, and many others.
It's paramount to emphasize that throughout this entire procedure, Belgian public entities are bound by a demanding ethical code: transparency of actions, equal treatment of candidates, and non-discrimination. This framework ensures every bidder receives an equitable assessment based on predefined and objective criteria.
In conclusion, although intricate, familiarity with public procurement legislation and regulations, both at the Belgian and European echelons, is pivotal for any enterprise aspiring to thrive in this competitive landscape.
