In procurement, the principle of non-discrimination ensures what?

The principle of non-discrimination in procurement focuses on providing equal opportunities for all suppliers. This principle is essential to ensure that every potential vendor has a fair chance to compete for contracts, regardless of their origin or size. It promotes a level playing field and encourages a diverse range of suppliers to participate in the bidding process. By doing so, it helps to foster competition, which can lead to better quality goods and services as well as potentially more favorable pricing for the procuring entity.

In a broader context, this principle aligns with various trade agreements and regulations aimed at preventing favoritism and ensuring that government contracts are awarded based on merit and capability rather than non-transparent criteria. By upholding non-discrimination, procurement processes promote transparency and accountability, ultimately benefiting stakeholders and the public at large.

The other options reflect outcomes that might be desired in a procurement process but do not specifically address the core intent of non-discrimination. Lower prices, faster contract awards, or reduction of paperwork may result from an efficient and competitive procurement environment, but they are not the primary focus of the principle itself.