Standards: Driving Excellence in Public Procurement

On the 11th November, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority, in collaboration with the Department of Contracts, organised the first session in a series titled Standards: Driving Excellence in Public Procurement. The session focused on the crucial role that standards play in enhancing transparency, quality, and compliance within public procurement processes.

Mr. George Cutajar from the Standards and Metrology Institute delivered the presentation, highlighting the benefits of using standards to promote innovation, create a level playing field, and support fair competition. The discussion also covered the standardisation process, the distinction between voluntary and harmonised standards, and the correct referencing of standards in procurement documentation.

Participants were also introduced to the concept of harmonised standards, which provide presumption of conformity with EU regulations, as well as the roles of Notified and Accreditation Bodies. The session concluded with practical insights on how to build technical specifications using standards, including the application of the or equivalent principle in public procurement.

The session was well received and provided valuable knowledge to professionals involved in procurement and regulation, underlining the importance of adopting standards to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency across all sectors.