common procurement vocabulary (CPV)

The CPV Code, Common Procurement Vocabulary, is a European Union( EU) directive that defines the vocabulary for public contracts. This directive, laid down in a 2008 Official Journal, is called the Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV).

The CPV vocabulary is an eight- digit numeric code with a unique nomenclature used to describe a procurement contract. The CPV code consists of two parts: the main part and the additional part. The main part defines the subject of the contract, while the additional part contains supplementary information. The eight digits of the CPV code describe the supplies, works or services specified in the order. A ninth digit serves as a check digit for the preceding CPV code.