Article 77. Preliminary market consultations.

1. Contracting authorities may carry out market consultations to prepare tender documents, including the choice of tender procedures, and to inform economic operators of the tenders they have planned and the related requirements required. 2. For the purposes of referred to in paragraph 1, contracting authorities may acquire information, consultancy, reports and any other suitable documentation, including of a technical nature, from experts, market operators, independent authorities or other suitable subjects. This documentation may also be used in planning and carrying out the procurement procedure, provided that it does not have the effect of distorting competition and does not lead to a violation of the principles of non-discrimination and transparency. EFFECTIVE FROM: 1 July 2023