European Commission publishes official proposal for new Public Procurement Regulation
Following the leaked draft, the European Commission has now officially unveiled its proposal for a new Public Procurement Regulation
- The European Commission has formally published its proposal for a new Public Procurement Regulation, largely confirming the reform direction outlined in the leaked draft discussed in our previous newsflash regarding this topic
- The proposal seeks to simplify procurement procedures, promote digitalisation, strengthen strategic procurement objectives, and enhance Europe's competitiveness and resilience
Key takeaways
Introduction
September 10, 2026
Earlier this summer, a leaked draft of the European Commission's proposed Public Procurement Regulation provided a first glimpse of what could become the most significant reform of EU public procurement legislation in more than a decade. In our previous newsflash, we analysed the key features of that draft and their potential impact on contracting authorities and economic operators.
The European Commission has now officially published its long-awaited proposal. While the final text will still need to pass through the ordinary legislative procedure, the proposal broadly confirms the reform direction already visible in the leaked draft, whilst providing greater clarity on a number of policy choices.
Among the key elements of the proposal are:
- A single directly applicable Regulation replacing the current procurement directives;
- A simplified and more flexible procedural framework;
- The creation of a European digital procurement marketplace;
- A stronger focus on quality, innovation, sustainability, resilience and security considerations in public purchasing;
- New instruments aimed at strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy and supply-chain resilience.
The proposal will now be examined by the European Parliament and the Council before a final text can be adopted.
For a more detailed discussion of the background and reform objectives reflected in the earlier draft, we invite readers to revisit our previous newsflash:"Early draft sheds light on the EU's planned procurement reform.
Action Points
- Review your current procurement framework and identify areas likely to be affected
- Engage early with EY Law procurement advisors to prepare your organisation for a potentially fundamental shift in the EU procurement landscape.
- Contact your EY Law contact person in case of questions.
