Tools for Enhancing Competitive Conditions in Regulated Procurement in the Far Eastern Region

The article examines the competitive environment in regulated public procurement markets in the Far Eastern Federal District for the period 2020–2024. The study’s relevance stems from the Russian government’s strategic focus on developing the Far East and the critical role of procurement as a tool for stimulating regional economic growth. Unlike nationwide overviews, this paper presents the first comprehensive comparative analysis of procurement markets under Federal Laws no. 44-FZ and 223-FZ specifically in the context of the Far East’s unique conditions. Using statistical analysis of data from the Unified Information System, the authors identify structural challenges: a 17% decline in the number of active suppliers over five years, rising market concentration (the share of the top 100 suppliers increased from 20 to 29%), and significant interregional disparities in competition levels. The 44-FZ market shows a steady decline in competition, while the 223-FZ market demonstrates increasing competition despite falling procurement volumes. A regional-industry “competition map” is developed, revealing chronically low-competition niches and an anomalously high share of wins by external suppliers in state-owned companies’ 223-FZ procurements. Based on these findings, practical recommendations are proposed for suppliers (hyper-specialization, cooperation, cross-regional expansion) and state support measures (lot decomposition, regional preferences, competence centers), drawing on international SME support practices. The study holds both theoretical value (advancing understanding of regional competition in public procurement) and practical relevance for public authorities, contracting entities, and small and medium-sized enterprises.