GHA World Bank Procurement Roadshow – Roundtable at Erbe in Tübingen: New opportunities through procurement reforms

The focus was on how German healthcare companies can benefit from the World Bank Group's current procurement reforms. Following a joint welcome address by representatives from Erbe, the World Bank, and the Agency for Economic and Development, the GHA first provided an overview of the performance and international role of the German healthcare industry.

The World Bank then presented its strategic priorities in the health sector, outlining regional priorities, key areas of action, and specific project and business opportunities. Building on this, the latest procurement reforms were explained, including practical advice for companies and an outlook on upcoming tenders.

A key outcome of the exchange was that the reforms will place greater emphasis on quality, implement structured evaluation procedures, and involve the market earlier. This will create new opportunities, particularly for innovative companies, to differentiate themselves beyond price.

The program was complemented by practical perspectives: Representatives of German companies reported on their experiences with World Bank-financed projects and presented concrete approaches for successful market access. The subsequent discussion focused on direct exchange with the World Bank and specific starting points for more intensive participation.

An informal meeting at Erbe the evening before provided an opportunity for initial discussions and networking, complemented by a location pitch highlighting Baden-Württemberg's strengths as a healthcare and MedTech hub. As part of the program, the delegation also visited Kimetec GmbH and gained insights into practical solutions in the field of maternal and child health.

The event highlights the great potential for German companies to become more involved in World Bank-funded projects and to use their expertise in international healthcare markets.