Suppliers to the public sector

Suppliers to the public sector

This thematic analysis from NTAES examines public procurement from the perspective of profit-motivated crime. The report describes how the public sector, as one of the largest purchasers of goods and services in Norway, is exposed to the risk that non-compliant or criminal suppliers gain access to contracts and public funds.

The analysis is aimed at public contracting authorities, procurement professionals, supervisory agencies, the police and prosecutors. It highlights how criminal actors can adapt to procurement rules, use subcontractor chains and misuse tender processes, and how such activity weakens competition and trust in the public sector.

Preventive measures

NTAES points to the importance of well-designed qualification requirements, effective follow-up of contracts, use of available data and cooperation across agencies. The report emphasises that continuous improvement of procurement practice is a key tool for preventing crime and safeguarding the use of public funds.