A report by the German Federal Audit Court (BRH) has revealed ongoing financial repercussions stemming from the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest assessment, presented to the parliamentary budget committee, indicates that masks acquired by the federal government will likely incur costs of €57 million in 2024 alone.
The BRH’s report highlights a pattern of “over-procurement” leading to substantial expenses associated with storage, disposal and legal counsel for ongoing litigation. To date, the total costs incurred – encompassing storage, destruction and legal processes – have reportedly reached €517 million.
Projections for future expenditures remain significant. The current budget allocates €45 million for these ongoing costs, with an additional €67 million anticipated for 2026 and 2027. However, the BRH anticipates even higher costs arising from ongoing legal proceedings.
The Ministry itself estimates costs of €360 million for the current year specifically related to litigation concerning the “Open-House” procurement procedure. This process involved the federal government purchasing masks at a fixed price of €4.50 per unit, subsequently facing challenges in absorbing the large surpluses. An additional €120 million in costs is projected for proceedings linked to direct procurement contracts negotiated with selected suppliers. The report underscores the ongoing financial impact stemming from decisions made during the emergency response phase of the pandemic.