📘 What Is CPV?
The Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV) is the classification system used throughout the European Union to describe what public procurement contracts are about. It was created to bring more clarity and consistency to procurement and to make contracts easier to find and compare—no matter the language or country.
🧩 How CPV Works
At the heart of CPV is a set of structured codes:
- Main Vocabulary: A tree-like system of codes, up to nine digits long, each pointing to a specific type of product, service, or work.
- Supplementary Vocabulary: Additional alphanumeric codes that add detail, such as the purpose or characteristics of the goods or services.
Every CPV code comes with a clear description, so both buyers and suppliers know exactly what’s being referred to. This reduces confusion and keeps procurement documents aligned.
🌍 Why CPV Matters
Better Search & Matching: Using CPV codes makes it quicker to identify relevant tenders and helps suppliers connect with the right opportunities.
EU Requirement: Since 2006, CPV codes have been compulsory in all public procurement notices within the EU.
Consistency Across Languages: CPV makes sure procurement terms mean the same thing in every EU language.