Contracting authority

A contracting authority is the body whose purchase triggers procurement obligations. In Switzerland this typically includes federal, cantonal and communal authorities, public-law institutions and, in certain sectors or circumstances, entities entrusted with public tasks or special rights. Whether a body is covered depends on the applicable procurement regime, the type of contract and thresholds. Contracting authorities must organise procedures, publish tenders where required, answer questions, evaluate bids and issue award decisions. They also bear duties of equal treatment, transparency, confidentiality and avoidance of conflicts of interest.