What are the basic principles when awarding public contracts?

Competition

• Open international tenders are preferable to restricted tenders or direct placement.
• Tender specifications must maximise possible competition.
• Only one bid per bidder allowed.
• Bids and bidders' identity must be treated confidentially.

Equal treatment/non-discrimination

• All bidders must be treated equally; discrimination not allowed; neutrality required.
• Avoid/make up for (lack of) information likely to distort competition.
• Only complete bids qualify for equal treatment.
• Only officials neutral towards the bidders can take part in the procedure.

Transparency

• Tender notice/procurement documents must specify suitability and award criteria.
• Decisions taken in tender procedure must be documented.