EUudbudstærsklerne

EUudbudstærsklerne, or EU procurement thresholds, are monetary limits set by the European Union that determine when public contracts must be advertised and tendered according to EU rules. These thresholds ensure that public bodies across member states open up larger procurement opportunities to competition from businesses in other EU countries, fostering a more integrated single market.

When the estimated value of a public contract exceeds these thresholds, it triggers specific procurement procedures. These procedures typically involve stricter advertising requirements, such as publishing the tender notice in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU), and more extensive procedural rules to ensure fairness, transparency, and equal treatment of all potential bidders. The thresholds are reviewed and updated periodically by the European Commission to reflect changes in economic conditions and inflation.

There are different thresholds for various types of public contracts, including works, supplies, and services. Separate, lower thresholds often apply to contracts awarded by contracting authorities in specific sectors like utilities (e.g., water, energy, transport, postal services). Exceeding these thresholds is not optional; it is a legal requirement for public bodies in EU member states to comply with the relevant EU procurement directives. Failure to do so can lead to legal challenges and penalties. The aim is to promote cross-border trade and ensure that public funds are spent in the most efficient and competitive manner possible.