New task for CEUTP: market consultation ahead of future rail tenders

The Minister of Infrastructure has tasked the Center for EU Transport Projects with carrying out preliminary market consultations on future procurement of inter-voivodeship and international rail mass passenger transport services. This is one of the key steps toward opening up the rail market after 2030. Consultations will begin in the coming weeks.

Purpose of consultation: preparing the ground for tenders

The initial market consultation is intended to allow us to gather opinions, technical data and experiences from those interested in providing transportation services. We are keen to learn the opinions of carriers both experienced in the Polish and foreign markets.

The information gathered will be used to prepare bidding procedures for the operation of interprovincial and international routes from December 2030. This is when the ongoing PSC contract will end.

The role of CEUTP: organizing, leading and summarizing the process

The Infrastructure Minister’s decision means that CUPT is responsible for:

• Preparation of the process – including the development of a notice of intent to consult,
• Conducting consultations – in the form of data collection and workshop and bilateral meetings,
• Development of a final report – with recommendations for the Minister of Infrastructure.

The consultation announcement will include a set of issues directed to participants and information on the scope of the planned procurement.

Consultation in light of the Public Procurement Law

Preliminary market consultations are a tool described in Article 84 of the Public Procurement Law. Their purpose is:

• order preparation,
• Informing contractors of the contracting authority’s plans,
• gaining expertise,
• Identifying risks and refining assumptions.

Workshop meetings and market analysis

The consultations include workshop-like meetings. They are intended to help with:

• An assessment of real market opportunities,
• Refining tender assumptions,
• Preparation of high-quality documentation.

The whole process was preceded by an in-depth market analysis to ensure that the requirements in future proceedings meet both the needs of the organizer, passengers and the potential of the carriers.

Final report: recommendations for MI

Upon completion of the consultation, CEUTP will prepare a report including:

• Evaluation of the concept of dividing lines into packages,
• proposals for conditions for participation in the proceedings,
• bid evaluation criteria,
• key provisions of future agreements,
• Recommendations for further action.