Suorahankinnat

Suorahankinnat, or direct procurements, refer to a method in public procurement where a contracting authority awards a contract directly to a single supplier without conducting a competitive bidding process. This approach is used under specific conditions and is governed by national procurement laws and, for applicable contracts, European Union directives.

In Finland, suorahankinnat are allowed only when justified by particular factors. Typical grounds include the existence of exclusive rights or a unique capability that only one supplier can fulfill, an urgent need that cannot wait for a competitive process, or when the estimated value falls below the thresholds that require open competition. The use of direct awards must be supported by written justification and documentation, including an assessment of market conditions and the expected value-for-money outcome. Wherever possible, contracting authorities are encouraged to maximize competition and ensure transparency within the applicable legal framework.

The process generally involves preparing a reasoned decision, maintaining a clear record of why competition was not pursued, and ensuring that any direct award complies with the relevant national rules and, when applicable, EU procurement requirements. For procurements below applicable thresholds, direct awards may proceed with fewer formal publishing obligations, but still subject the same principles of legality, proportionality, and accountability. In practice, suorahankinnat aim to balance efficiency and value for money with safeguards against favoritism and reduced competition; improper use can lead to audits, legal challenges, or remedies such as re-tendering or contract termination.

Overall, suorahankinnat constitute a recognized, tightly regulated option within public procurement, to be used only when justified, well-documented, and compliant with applicable rules.