Government Contracting

Federal agencies spend nearly half a trillion dollars each year on common products and services, yet much of that buying still happens in silos. GAO highlights how category management—using governmentwide contracts and centralized strategies—has already generated over $100 billion in savings but still leaves billions more unrealized. Agencies continue to face challenges such as inconsistent data, limited accountability, and underuse of preferred contracts. With new executive direction to centralize procurement through GSA, success will depend on better oversight, stronger requirements planning, and improved access to shared purchasing data.