Fair competition is fundamental to achieving value for money in public procurement. Supplier collusion occurs when two or more suppliers secretly agree to manipulate the outcome of a procurement process, often by fixing prices, taking turns to win contracts, or submitting non-competitive bids.
These practices undermine competition, increase costs and prevent genuine suppliers from competing on equal terms.
Suppliers are expected to prepare and submit bids independently and without consultation or agreement with competitors. Any evidence or suspicion of collusive behaviour may be referred to the relevant authorities for investigation.
Maintaining a competitive and transparent procurement environment benefits all stakeholders and supports responsible use of public resources.