The Centralised Automated Information System "Electronic Public Procurement" (CAIS EPP) is the mandatory electronic platform used for most public procurement procedures in Bulgaria. Although the platform has significantly improved the efficiency of electronic procurement, technical issues still occur in practice and may affect a bidder's ability to participate successfully. For an overview of our legal services in this field, please visit our Public Procurement section.
What Technical Problems Occur Most Frequently?
The most common issues include difficulties accessing the platform, problems with qualified electronic signatures, incomplete document uploads, interrupted submission processes and file-signing errors. Such situations often occur shortly before the submission deadline, when every minute is critical for completing the tender.
What Should a Bidder Do?
If a technical issue occurs, evidence should be collected immediately. It is advisable to save screenshots, preserve error messages, keep correspondence with the system operator and record the exact time when the problem occurred. These documents may later become essential when assessing whether the bidder's rights have been affected.
Companies that regularly participate in procurement procedures can reduce risks by checking their qualified electronic signature, software environment and tender documentation well before the submission deadline. More information about legal support for bidders is available on our Public Procurement for Contractors page.
What Are the Responsibilities of the Contracting Authority?
When a dispute concerns a technical issue, the contracting authority should carefully evaluate all available evidence and the specific circumstances of the procurement procedure. Not every technical malfunction automatically constitutes a legal violation. Each situation must be assessed individually, taking into account the applicable legislation and the available technical information.
For complex procurement procedures and projects financed by European funds, contracting authorities often benefit from professional legal assistance. Learn more about our services for Public Procurement for Contracting Authorities.
When Can a Technical Issue Lead to an Appeal?
If a technical failure has unlawfully prevented participation in the procedure or has otherwise affected the fairness of the procurement process, legal remedies may be available under the Bulgarian Public Procurement Act. Every case should be assessed individually, considering the available evidence, statutory deadlines and the actions taken by both the bidder and the contracting authority.
Further information about available legal remedies can be found on our Appeals and Legal Protection in Public Procurement page.
Obtaining legal advice without delay often allows appropriate action to be taken before statutory appeal deadlines expire, significantly improving the chances of protecting the bidder's interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I cannot submit my tender because of a technical issue in CAIS EPP?
Save all available evidence, including screenshots, error messages, system notifications and correspondence. These documents may be important when assessing your legal position.
Does every technical issue justify an appeal?
No. A legal assessment is required to determine whether the technical issue actually affected the bidder's rights or the lawfulness of the procurement procedure.
When should I contact a public procurement lawyer?
Legal advice should be sought as soon as the technical issue occurs, especially where statutory deadlines are short or participation in the procedure may be affected.
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