Dynamics of the Public Contract Award Process in Romania between 2022 and 2024

The period 2021-2024 represented a period of significant transformations in the public procurement system in Romania, influenced by legislative changes, the intensification of digitalization processes and the need to align with European Union requirements. This study analyzes the dynamics of the public contract award process during this period, highlighting procedural developments, the level of transparency, operational efficiency and the degree of compliance. Through a mixed methodological approach–including statistical analysis of SEAP data, assessment of regulatory changes and interviews with public procurement specialists–the research identifies the main trends that shaped the award mechanisms. The results show an increase in the use of competitive procedures, a progressive simplification of administrative stages and the consolidation of digital tools, but also persistent challenges related to institutional capacity, the duration of processes and the heterogeneity of reform implementation. The study also highlights the impact of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan on the volume and dynamics of public procurement. The conclusions contribute to understanding how the public procurement system evolves in a constantly changing economic and regulatory context, providing relevant recommendations for decision-makers involved in optimizing the award process.