SNCB sticks with Spanish train manufacturer despite objections
Belgian railway company SNCB/NMBS is again proposing Spanish manufacturer CAF as its preferred bidder for a train order worth between 1.7 and 3.4 billion euros, according to De Standaard. This comes after an earlier reprimand from the Council of State.
CAF’s selection had already sparked protests from Belgian competitor Alstom, which was second in the bidding process and has long been a key supplier. Unions warned the decision could endanger the future of Alstom’s Bruges site, which employs more than 600 people.
In April, Alstom successfully challenged the decision, prompting the Council of State to suspend negotiations with CAF pending a ruling on whether to annul the process. The court criticised SNCB for a lack of transparency in its evaluation method.
SNCB insists it complies fully with European tendering rules and cannot consider factors like local job impact.
The proposal will be presented to the SNCB board on Friday. A green light would allow negotiations with CAF to resume, possibly leading to a final contract.
© PHOTO BELGIAN FREELANCE
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