| Work Detail |
The national government formalized a sweeping reform of the public works procurement system with the goal of expanding competition and eliminating the bureaucratic obstacles that for decades had hindered companies entry into the bidding system. The measure was announced by the Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation, Federico Sturzenegger , who described the resolution as a structural step forward against the cartelization of the sector. Provision 24/2025 , published by the National Procurement Office (ONC), eliminates the old Registry of Builders and creates the Co-contractor Information System (SICO) . This new mechanism modernizes the registration and qualification process for companies interested in participating in public tenders, also allowing the entry of bidders without prior experience, who will be able to compete by proving their assets or presenting guarantees. One of the key changes is the elimination of the contracting capacity system, which imposed limits on the volume of work that could be awarded based on technical and financial criteria. This model, in place for more than 70 years, restricted access to new companies and favored established players in the sector, creating what Sturzenegger defined as a closed club of contractors. The new scheme now allows both domestic and foreign companies , with or without experience in public works, to participate on equal terms. Administrative procedures are simplified, the paperwork burden is reduced, and the submission of background information for private or foreign projects is permitted. The aim is to generate a more dynamic market, reduce costs, and improve resource allocation for future projects. In line with other executive measures, the provision is part of the deregulation agenda promoted by President Javier Milei , which includes halting state-funded public works. According to official spokespersons, the goal is not to resume large state projects, but rather to optimize processes in the event that new projects are authorized under public-private partnership schemes or private initiatives. Sturzenegger linked this reform to the so-called Centeno notebooks case , a judicial investigation still underway into alleged bribery payments by contractors during previous administrations. Centeno never again! he expressed on his X account, emphasizing that the new model breaks with the previous system and enables more transparent competition. The initiative complements Delegated Decree 105/25 , which eliminated the Builders Registry under the pretext of dismantling structures that perpetuated privileges in public procurement. Both measures were made possible thanks to the powers granted to the Executive Branch through the Basic Law, which expires on July 8. |
