Public procurement in the food sector is a strategic tool for promoting local products, reducing the carbon footprint, and supporting the circular economy. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, in 2024 more than 5,000 public institutions (schools, hospitals, canteens) purchased agri-food products through SEAP.

EU Directives 2014/24 and 2014/25 recommend the inclusion of sustainability criteria in public procurement, yet implementation in Romania remains limited. Common obstacles include:

• lack of clear implementation guidelines;
• difficulties in ensuring local product traceability;
• shortage of offers that comply with ecological requirements;
• reluctance of contracting authorities to evaluate non-price criteria.

An example of good practice: In 2023, Cluj County Council carried out a pilot project to supply 15 schools with agri-food products from the county, applying criteria of local origin and reusable packaging.

The sustainable adoption of these practices requires inter-institutional collaboration, training for authorities, and digital platforms for suppliers.

(Photo: Freepik)