International procurement: business welcomes long-awaited instrument

After ten long years of discussions, yesterday the EU institutions finally agreed on the International Procurement Instrument (IPI).

Commenting on the breakthrough BusinessEurope’s Director General Markus J. Beyrer said: "European business has long been waiting for an instrument that re-establishes a level playing field on international procurement markets. More than ever European companies need new business opportunities in third countries to support our economic recovery and diversify our markets. The IPI should give the EU extra leverage in negotiating with third countries while safeguarding the competitiveness of our companies in the single market. Implementation will be key to ensure the instrument works and effectively creates more competitive conditions for our companies abroad and in the EU."