Public Procurement Collusion:

The term collusion in public procurement refers to illegal agreements between economic operators that distort competition in award procedures. Bid rigging has severe implications for government budgets. According to the European Commission, collusive practices may raise prices for public authorities by up to 60% compared to normal market conditions. The fight against bid rigging is, therefore, becoming a key priority for competition authorities. This case study examines how Belgium is implementing and enforcing anti-collusive measures within the framework of EU public procurement law. Drawing on recent case law and enforcement activities, this article argues that there are clear indications of a more proactive and coordinated approach to tackling collusion in Belgian public procurement. Future research may determine whether the Belgian case is an isolated example or part of a broader trend among Member States stepping up efforts against bid rigging.