Section 2: Reduction in the number of candidates

The purchaser may limit the number of candidates admitted to tender or to take part in the dialogue, provided that this number is sufficient to ensure effective competition.

A purchaser who intends to limit the number of candidates shall indicate, in the notice of call for tenders or in the invitation to confirm interest, the objective and non-discriminatory criteria which he intends to apply for this purpose, the minimum number of candidates he intends to invite and, where appropriate, their maximum number.

For contracting authorities, the minimum number of candidates indicated in the call for tenders or in the invitation to confirm interest may not be less than:1° Five in the case of a restricted call for tenders;2° Three in the case of a procedure with negotiation or a competitive dialogue.

Where the number of candidates satisfying the selection criteria is less than the minimum number indicated, the purchaser may continue the procedure with these candidates.