UNIFE joins forces with key industries to strengthen the future Global Europe Instrument

As negotiations on the sectoral legislation of the next EU long-term budget resume, UNIFE, EIC (construction industry) and EFCA (engineering consultants) have jointly reached out to Members of the European Parliament involved in the negotiations on the proposed €200 billion Global Europe Instrument under the next MFF 2028-2034. While welcoming the consolidation of EU external financing instruments and the stronger geopolitical focus of the proposal, the associations stress the need for safeguards that support the effective delivery of the Global Gateway Strategy.

The joint position paper calls for stronger eligibility and procurement rules, including the possibility to restrict participation to eligible entities under both direct and indirect management, the systematic exclusion of abnormally low tenders, and measures to address foreign subsidies that distort competition. It also proposes the introduction of an EU Preference mechanism for Global Gateway-funded infrastructure projects.

In addition, the paper advocates for the systematic use of strategic procurement based on quality and value criteria rather than lowest price, as well as the introduction of two-stage tender procedures for complex works contracts. The overall objective is to ensure a level playing field and strengthen the competitiveness of European companies in externally financed infrastructure projects.

For more information please contact carlos.corts@unife.org