How to Bid for Public Contracts in Romania: A Practical Guide

Public procurement in Romania offers substantial opportunities for companies of all sizes. The state and its agencies regularly purchase goods, services and works, and much of this spending is open to competitive tender. Understanding how the system works can help your business tap into a reliable revenue stream.

Understanding the legal framework

Romanian public procurement is governed by Law 98/2016, which aligns with EU directives. Contracts above certain thresholds must be advertised and awarded through open, restricted or negotiated procedures. The rules aim to ensure transparency, equal treatment and non-discrimination among bidders.

Registering on the e-procurement system

All public tenders in Romania are managed electronically through the national e-procurement system, known as SEAP (Sistemul Electronic de Achiziții Publice). To participate, your company must register on the platform using a qualified digital certificate. Registration is free and usually takes a few days. Once registered, you will have access to tender notices, documentation and submission tools.

Finding suitable tenders

SEAP allows you to search for tenders by keyword, CPV code (Common Procurement Vocabulary), contracting authority, or estimated value. You can set up email alerts for new notices that match your business profile. Regularly reviewing the platform is essential, as deadlines for bid submission are often strict.

Preparing a compliant bid

A bid must include all documents requested in the tender documentation. Typically, you will need to submit:

• A completed European Single Procurement Document (ESPD), which is a self-declaration of eligibility and financial standing.
• A technical proposal describing how you will meet the contract requirements.
• A financial offer, often presented as a price schedule or lump sum.
• Supporting documents such as company registration certificates, tax clearance, and proof of relevant experience.

Pay close attention to the evaluation criteria. Some tenders award contracts solely on price, while others also assess technical quality, delivery time or after-sales service. Make sure your bid addresses each criterion explicitly.

Submitting and following up

Bids are submitted electronically through SEAP before the deadline. Late submissions are automatically rejected. After the evaluation, the contracting authority will publish a ranking of admissible bids. If your bid is unsuccessful, you have the right to request clarifications and, in some cases, to challenge the decision through the National Council for Solving Complaints (CNSC).

Winning public contracts in Romania requires patience and attention to detail. Start with smaller tenders to learn the process, and consider partnering with a local consultant if you are new to the market. Over time, public procurement can become a valuable part of your business strategy.