New decree aims to modernise contractor selection procedures

Decree No.349/2026/ND-CP, issued on September 9, aims to modernize contractor selection procedures by focusing on practical obstacles, simplifying and standardizing processes, enhancing transparency, and strengthening oversight based on data from the National E-Procurement System. The decree comprises four articles covering contractor selection, ordering or bidding for public products and services using state budget funds, transitional provisions, and implementation details.

A key feature of the decree is the promotion of digitalization throughout contractor selection for direct contracting packages. Procuring entities will handle various activities such as publishing contractor selection plans, sending requests for proposals, providing clarification, opening proposals, and announcing selection results on the system.

Contractors will also engage in these activities online, including receiving proposals, preparing joint venture agreements, submitting proposals, and finalizing contracts electronically. The decree also adjusts the procedure for publicly announcing contractor selection results to accommodate shortened direct contracting.

Another significant provision is the strengthening of oversight of bidding activities through systematic and standardized data. Relevant authorities, agencies, and procuring entities will have access to regularly updated bidding-related data sources. This will improve transparency, detect unusual signs, enhance oversight effectiveness, and promote accountability.

The decree also introduces changes to the quotation collection process, which will be conducted electronically using e-forms authenticated with digital signatures. This will standardize quotation information, reduce manual operations, simplify procedures, and shorten processing times.

The decree also introduces a new provision on petitions and information disclosure. Petitioners will be able to submit their petitions to the procuring entity through the system, ensuring compliance with submission deadlines. For ordering activities, information on the quality of goods will be publicly disclosed, promoting transparency and providing reference data for subsequent procurement rounds.

The new regulations aim to create a fair and timely participation environment in the public procurement market as bidding activities become increasingly digitalized and transparent.