Prince Henri Auditoire 02 BW

Eurosystem Procurement Coordination Office (EPCO)

01.12.2008

On 17 November 2008, the Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) adopted the Decision laying down the framework for joint Eurosystem procurement (ECB/2008/17) aimed at fostering the participation of the ECB and the national central banks that have adopted the euro in joint procurement actions. The Decision enters into force on 1 December 2008.

In December 2007, the Governing Council created a Eurosystem Procurement Coordination Office (EPCO) and appointed the Banque centrale du Luxembourg to host EPCO for the period from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2012. 

EPCO’s main tasks are to facilitate the adoption of best procurement practices, to develop the infrastructure required for joint procurement, to identify potential cases for joint procurement and to prepare procurement plans for joint tender procedures. 

In 2008, progress has been made in the definition of best practices and the development of the required infrastructure. In addition, a proposal for a procurement plan for 2009 has been prepared. 

Joint procurement of goods and services is considered by the Governing Council to be an instrument to achieve the objectives of cost-efficiency and effectiveness and of seeking the best value for money from the procurement of goods and services, by exploiting synergies and economies of scale. 

The full text of the Decision is attached. (FR) (ENG)

Version FR