public procurement
The process by which public bodies buy goods and services, usually through formal and transparent competitive procedures.
Definition
Public procurement is how governments and other public bodies purchase what they need, from stationery to creative campaigns. Rules typically require advertised tenders, written criteria, fair evaluation and records, to limit favoritism and ensure value for public money. Agencies that bid for public work respond to a formal request for proposal or tender, and must follow deadlines and format requirements exactly. Thresholds and procedures differ by country and sometimes by value, so read each notice carefully. Keep a checklist of mandatory documents and deadlines, because many public bodies reject incomplete bids without giving a chance to correct them.
In a sentence
The city issued a public procurement notice for a tourism campaign.
Late submissions are rejected under public procurement rules.
