What action does the European Commission take when needing to purchase goods and services?

The European Commission follows a structured and regulated process when purchasing goods and services, often termed public procurement. Calling for tenders is a formal process whereby the Commission invites suppliers to submit bids for the provision of specific goods or services. This approach ensures transparency, competition, and equal treatment of suppliers—all essential principles of EU procurement law.

By issuing a call for tenders, the European Commission publicly announces its requirements, allowing potential vendors to respond with proposals that detail how they can meet those needs. This process helps to ensure that the Commission receives competitive offers, fostering an environment where the best value can be obtained for public funds.

While other actions mentioned, such as requesting proposals or conducting market research, may be part of the overall procurement strategy, the call for tenders specifically signifies the official invitation for suppliers to present their bids in accordance with established protocols. Public notices may also play a role in this process by informing the public and potential suppliers, but they do not encapsulate the core action of soliciting bids for procurement.