What requirements are common in European contracts?

Well, let's talk seriously: getting into the world of public procurement in Europe is not children. There is more paperwork and requirements than in a neighborhood meeting. Everything is super regulated, with directives and standards that change according to the type of contract, the sector and, of course, the paste that moves. But be careful, there are certain basic rules that nobody can jump if they even want to appear your head out there.

First, pasta. Companies are asked to prove that they are not about to go to Pique. As? Well, taking out their annual balances, financial statements and, sometimes, even references from the bank or compensation insurance. It is not going to be given a contract and they fall apart halfway, right?

Then there is the issue of experience and people. It is not enough to say "I can"; You have to prove it. They can ask you for testing that you did similar things before, show that you have a team that knows what it does, and convince them that you are going to deliver everything on time. Sometimes they even ask for quality certificates or follow certain technical standards. Nothing to improvise.

And, as if that were not enough, lately he has given them to demand environmental and social rolls. That if you comply with ecological norms, that if gender equality, that if social inclusion ... and you don't even think about if the contract has to do with public works or services, because there are especially heavy.

Another key point: transparency and ethics. There is no place for dirty plays. They force you to sign that you are more honest than the Pope, that you have no conflicts of interest and that it does not even pass by the head bribed to anyone. Basically, they want everyone to play clean.

Of course, all this is under the umbrella of European law and that of each country. So, in addition to all of the above, you have to read (or look for someone to read it for you) the small print on taxes, data protection and intellectual property. Yes, that it is a tostón, but if you do not, you stay out.

In summary: this is not a walk. The requirements are many and sometimes they want to throw in the towel, but they also ensure that no one cheats. If you really go seriously, prepare well and, if you have doubts, look for someone who understands the subject. So you will have an opportunity to take the contract and not only want.

And since we are, signed the name of the 2014/24/EU Directive. It is like the Bible of European public procurement. There is everything: how to present the offers, how they choose the winner, and a thousand more details. If you want to play in this league, that document is your starting point.