Progressive Slovakia Files Complaint over Expo 2025–2026 Tender Process (2)

Bratislava, 25 July (TASR) – Opposition party Progressive Slovakia has filed a complaint with the Public Procurement Office (UVO) regarding the public procurement process carried out by state-funded agency Slovakia Travel for the Expo 2025–2026 project. MP Richard Dubovicky (PS) announced on Friday. "The state must investigate the questionable procedure used by Slovakia Travel in the Expo 2025–2026 contract. That's why we've filed a formal complaint with the Public Procurement Office today. The problem lies in the failure to publish the tender evaluation record, the lack of information on the bids submitted and the winning price. This conduct directly violates the Public Procurement Act and raises serious concerns about the transparency of the entire process. I expect UVO to review the complaint and take any necessary action,” said Dubovicky. Progressive Slovakia has previously criticised Slovakia Travel's work and the procurement process for the Slovak pavilion at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan. They highlighted what they viewed as excessive costs and a lack of transparency. In early July, Dubovicky requested that the Supreme Audit Office (NKU) should examine the financial management of Slovakia Travel, pointing to serious doubts regarding whether public funds were being used effectively, purposefully and efficiently. According to Slovakia Travel, the contract for Slovakia's participation in trade fairs and exhibitions for 2025–2026 was duly signed and published in the Central Register of Contracts on 11 July 2025. Zuzana Eliasova, head of communications at Slovakia Travel, stated that the contract was made public in line with transparency rules and that other documents are currently being finalised and will be added as soon as possible. Slovakia Travel also noted that a formal tender was held and evaluated under the previous management. Eliasova said that the winning bid met all legal requirements and criteria and that the selection process was properly documented and will be published in accordance with the law. "Slovakia’s participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions is an important tool for promoting the country abroad. Slovakia Travel will continue to act openly, professionally and in accordance with the law in support of tourism development and public trust," stated Eliasova. She added that MP Dubovicky was repeatedly invited to participate in a professional discussion but didn't take up the opportunity. "In this context, we perceive his current statements more as an attempt at political visibility than genuine interest in a factual debate," said Eliasova. mf/df