Supply, Installation and After Sales Services of Laboratory Equipment for The Ministry of Health - Madagascar (Refrigerators, Freezers and Microscopes).

New clarification added: Question 1 : In the relevant section of the technical requirements, three specific companies are listed as eligible suppliers for the requested goods/services. We respectfully seek clarification regarding this requirement.Question 2 : Regarding Lot 2, we have products and models that match the parameters, but they are not the brand specified in the documents. Is this acceptable?UNOPS Answer :  As mentionned in the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable. Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We note that the current list of eligible manufacturers is limited to three brands. While we fully respect UNOPS’ quality and performance requirements, we would like to respectfully draw attention to the fact that limiting eligibility to a very narrow list of manufacturers may unintentionally restrict competition, reduce value for money, and exclude other manufacturers that meet or exceed the same international standards.We therefore kindly request that UNOPS consider expanding the list of eligible manufacturers to include additional manufacturers that can demonstrate full compliance with the technical, safety, performance and quality requirements set out in the ITB. This would strengthen competition, improve pricing, and increase supply chain resilience, while fully preserving UNOPS’ quality and risk management standards.UNOPS Answer : As mentionned in the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : I will be grateful if you could consider an extension to the submission deadline by a further 15 days in order to allow us enough time to submit an offer.The tender was released during the end of year festive period and many companies had office closures.UNOPS Answer : We appreciate the time and effort you are putting into your proposal. We understand that the holiday season can be a challenging time for scheduling; however, we factored those dates into our original timeline to ensure all bidders had sufficient time. For this reason, we are unable to grant an extension at this stage.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We have some questions about the performance bond:- Can you please tell us who will be the beneficiary of the bank guarantee (UNOPS directly or a third-party beneficiary)?- Can you please tell us how long this performance bond will need to be valid for? UNOPS Answer : Regarding your inquiry, please be advised that the performance bond must be issued with UNOPS as the designated beneficiary and must remain valid for the entire duration of the contract to ensure full coverage of all contractual obligations.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : Brands Like Haier, B medical and Thermosfisher for Refrigerator and Leica Ziess and Olympus are mentioned for particiapting in the bid. Although it is mentioned for standardization, other equally qualified bidders are unable to participate and submit the bids. Requesting to kindly waive off the brands. UNOPS Answer : As mentionned in the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Best regards,The procurement team

New amendment added #2: Amendment No. 2 :Please be advised that Amendment No. 2 has been issued to address the following updates:Quantity Adjustments: Updated for all lots.Definition Update: Revised criteria for "locally based services company.New Attachments: Inclusion of the pre-bid meeting minutes.Sections II, III, Appendix 1 and delivery tables have been revised accordingly, with all changes highlighted in yellow. Please refer to the updated documents in the eSourcing portal:Section II: Schedule of Requirements (Rev.1)Section III: Returnable Bidding Forms (Rev.2)Appendix 1: Evaluation Criteria (Rev.1)Delivery - Refrigerators Rev.1DELIVERY - Microscopes Rev.1

New clarification added: Question : Dear UNOPS team,We are interested in ITB/2025/60622 (Madagascar). Do you prefer proposal from manufacturer or consolidators/dealers?Please confirm if the following case is allowed: As a manufacturer, the company submits the bidding proposal directly; at the same time, this company authorizes other partners to participate in the same tender and submit the bidding proposal, too. (The manufacturer could choose both ways or only one way to proceed?)UNOPS Answer : Dear Bidder,Thank you for your interest in the above-mentioned ITB and for reaching out for clarification :1. UNOPS does not have a general preference for manufacturers over dealers. We evaluate all bids based on the criteria specified in the tender documents, focusing on Best Value for Money, technical compliance, and the supplier's ability to fulfill the requirements.2. Regarding your query on a manufacturer bidding directly while simultaneously authorizing partners to bid for the same tender, please note the following in accordance with the UNOPS Procurement Manual (Section 1.5 - Ethical Standards):- Multiple Bidding: Generally, a supplier (including its parent or subsidiary companies) is permitted to submit only one bid for a specific tender, either individually or as part of a joint venture.- Risk of Rejection: If a manufacturer submits a direct bid and also authorizes multiple dealers to submit independent bids for the same products, this is often interpreted as collusion or an attempt to manipulate the competitive process. In such cases, all related bids may be rejected as they compromise the principle of fairness and transparency.To ensure the integrity of the process, a manufacturer must choose only one way to proceed: either submit a bid directly OR authorize one or more partners to bid on its behalf (where the partners are not competing against the manufacturer itself). Participating in both capacities is considered a prohibited practice and will likely lead to the disqualification of all involved offers.We encourage you to review the UN Supplier Code of Conduct and the UNOPS Procurement Manual to ensure full compliance.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : Dear Procurement Team,Thank you for your response.Based on our technical assessment, it appears that the technical specifications included in the tender may have been compiled by combining features from multiple models within the listed brands, resulting in requirements that are not fully aligned with any single available model from those brands.In this context, compliance with the full set of technical specifications is not feasible using the specified brands alone. To enable bidders to submit clear, compliant, and comparable offers, we kindly request that you please:Specify the exact model numbers of the selected brands intended for supply, irrespective of the detailed specifications and features currently stated.Providing the intended models will ensure consistency with the standardization objective and allow bidders to submit accurate and responsive bids.UNOPS Answer : Dear Bidder,Thank you for your interest in this tender. We wish to clarify that the technical specifications have been developed to address the specific functional requirements of the project and are based on experience from previously successful tenders. The requirements are defined as minimum technical standards and, in certain cases, allow for multiple configuration options.In the event that any technical specification results in a requirement that is not feasible, bidders may submit requests for clarification within the timeframe established for that purpose and prior to the submission of their Offers, for review and analysis.Bidders, as specialists in the products and solutions they offer, are responsible for assessing the detailed requirements against the technical capabilities of their product models, supplementing them with optional features where applicable, and proposing the solution that best matches the required configuration, resulting in a fully defined and uniquely identified model number provided by the Bidder.Additionally, Bidders may at their discretion propose alternative technologies or designs that they consider superior, provided that such proposals are supported by appropriate technical documentation and analysis clearly demonstrating compliance with, and superiority over, the specified requirements.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We kindly request your clarification on whether:Auto defrost is mandatory for ULT freezers, or if manual defrost is acceptable.A CO₂ backup system is expected to be included as part of the scope to meet the temperature-holding requirement during power failure.UNOPS Answer : Auto defrost is a mandatory requirement for ULT freezers, nevertheless, this is part of the minimum technical requirements. It remains at the bidder’s discretion to propose technologies considered superior, provided that such proposals are accompanied by the corresponding technical analysis demonstrating their superiority relative to the stated requirements.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We have carefully reviewed the technical specifications, and we kindly request your assistance in clarifying a few points to ensure full compliance with the requirements:Thermal Insulation Requirement (All Items)The specification mentions: “Thermal insulation that can maintain the temperature range control, at least for a period of one (1) hour without power supply.”Kindly clarify the highest temperature limit that must be maintained without power supply for each item.Specifically for the –80°C freezer, please confirm whether an external UPS or backup power system is acceptable, as thermal insulation alone may not be sufficient to maintain –80°C for an extended duration without power.Item 7 – Blood Bank Refrigerator (Drawers and Shelves)The specification requires at least six (6) adjustable, liquid-tight drawers, with removable and height-adjustable shelves.Please clarify whether both drawers and shelves are mandatory, as the use of drawers typically limits the space for shelves.If shelves are required, kindly specify the minimum number of shelves.Exterior and Interior Material (All Items)As stainless steel is not explicitly specified for the exterior and interior construction, please confirm whether high-quality coated steel is acceptable to meet the technical specifications.–80°C Freezer – Defrosting and Cooling SystemKindly note that commercially available –80°C freezers generally do not feature auto-defrost or a forced air cooling system.Please confirm whether this requirement is mandatory, or if standard industry-available configurations are acceptable.UNOPS Answer : 1.- Regarding thermal insulation requirements, the technical specifications clearly establish the need to maintain controlled temperature conditions for a minimum period of one (1) hour in the absence of a power supply. This requirement constitutes a minimum technical standard. Bidders may, at their discretion, propose technologies deemed superior, provided that such proposals are supported by the corresponding technical analysis demonstrating their superiority relative to the specified requirements.2.- Regarding the Blood Bank Refrigerator, the specifications require the use of drawers. These drawers are typically supported by long, flat shelves mounted horizontally against the interior walls of the refrigerator, providing the structural capacity necessary to support and withstand the weight of the stored hemocomponent bags.3.-With regard to exterior and interior materials, the requirements specify that all materials must provide durability, safety, mechanical stability, and resistance to corrosion, including resistance to chemical agents and the frequent application of laboratory-grade disinfectants.4.- Regarding the defrosting and cooling system, the technical specifications establish a minimum technical standard. Bidders may, at their discretion, propose technologies considered superior, provided that such proposals are supported by the corresponding technical analysis demonstrating their superiority in relation to the specified requirements.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We refer to our earlier email regarding the above-mentioned tender and kindly request clarification.As noted, the specified brands for laboratory refrigerators, freezers, and microscopes do not appear to fully comply with all stated technical requirements. To enable a compliant and competitive bid, we respectfully request confirmation of one of the following:The exact brand and model numbers intended for supply; orAcceptance of deviations from the specifications for the stated brands; orAcceptance of equivalent brands and models meeting the technical requirements.UNOPS Answer : According to the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Regarding the technical specifications, they define the minimum technical requirements. It remains at the bidder’s discretion to propose technologies considered superior, provided that such proposals are accompanied by the corresponding technical analysis demonstrating their superiority relative to the stated requirements.Best regards,The procurement team 

New clarification added: Question : Can i quote another brand that is not among the preffered brands on the technical specificationUNOPS Answer : According to the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : Kindly find advise for lot 2  we would like to quote from another supplier that is not included in the listed brands but matches specifications.  Will this be possible?UNOPS answer : According to the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Best regards,The procurement team 

New clarification added: Question : Please advise back :1-Do you mean that you will not accept any brand other than : Thermo fisher or Haier or B Medical Systems  for any lot or item needed in this bid ?2-Most or all of them items are just plug and play so what do you mean by installation ?3-We are an approved distributor of a main manufacturer for the Middle East and Africa  so do we need any local agent knowing that we will honor the needed warratnty and training online .UNOPS Answer : 1.- Yes, the accepted brands are indicated within the corresponding Lot.2.- The installation of the supplied equipment consists of positioning the equipment and making it ready for use in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and shall be carried out by professionals duly trained in these procedures.3.- The requirement for local technical support is detailed in Section II of the Tender Document.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We refer to the above-mentioned tender, which specifies particular brands for laboratory refrigerators, freezers, and microscopes, together with detailed technical specifications.Our review indicates that no available models from the specified brands fully comply with all stated requirements. In line with UN procurement principles of fairness, effective competition, and best value for money, mandatory brand requirements are generally applied only where technically justified.To enable compliant and competitive submissions, we kindly request UNOPS to clearly confirm one of the following:The exact brand and model numbers intended for supply, orAcceptance of deviations from the technical specifications for the specified brands, orAcceptance of equivalent brands and models that fully comply with the technical specifications.UNOPS Answer : According to the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Regarding the technical specifications, they define the minimum technical requirements. It remains at the bidder’s discretion to propose technologies considered superior, provided that such proposals are accompanied by the corresponding technical analysis demonstrating their superiority relative to the stated requirements.Best regards,The procurement team

New clarification added: Question : We are interested in participating in the referenced tender. Kindly advise whether it is acceptable for us only supply and delivery goods as part of our participation.UNOPS Answer : Thank you very much for your inquiry. We would like to confirm that both the supply and delivery of the goods are included within the scope of our requirements. In addition, please note that other requirements, as clearly described in Section II, must also be included in your offer. These include, among others, warranty coverage, related services, and the delivery of documentation.Best regards,The procurement team 

New clarification added: Question : For both Lot 1 and 2  can one quote another brand that is not the preffered brand in the bid. UNOPS Answer : According to the Section II, the equipment procured under this tender is integral to the standardization effort for our beneficiary. To ensure consistent technical specifications and maintain a uniform user experience, only the brands explicitly listed in the corresponding table will be deemed acceptable.Best regards,The procurement team 

New amendment added #1: Amendment No. 1:Revision of Requirements for Lot 2  : Please be advised that the list of requirements for Lot 2 in Sections II and III has been updated. Bidders are instructed to refer to the revised documents (Rev. 1) now available in the eSourcing "Documents" section.

New clarification added: Question 2 : We are interested in participating in the referenced tender. Kindly advise whether it is acceptable for us to supply the goods and delivery the delivery as part of our participation.UNOPS Answer : Thank you for your interest in this tender. We would appreciate further clarification regarding your request. Specifically, could you please elaborate on your question about supplying the goods and delivery?Once we have a better understanding of your specific inquiry, we will be happy to provide the necessary guidance.Best regards, The procurement team

New clarification added: Question 3 : Will you kindly share the following document in the form of an excel sheet:ITB 2025 60622_ITB_Section_III_Returnable Bidding FormsUNOPS Answer : Thank you for your request. Please note that we are unable to provide the Section III Returnable Bidding Forms in Excel format. To ensure the integrity of the document structure and to prevent any inadvertent errors in formatting or content, the forms must be submitted in the original format provided.Thank you in advance for your understanding. Best regards,The procurement team 

New clarification added: Question 1 : Under Lot 2, Items 1 and 2 have the same specifications, but the item names and quantities are different in the price schedule.Please confirm whether these are the same equipment or two different items.UNOPS Answer : Thank you for bringing this discrepancy to our attention regarding Lot 2, Items 1 and 2.We acknowledge that there is an error in the item names and quantities for the Binocular Fluorescence Laboratory Microscope and the Binocular Laboratory Microscope.To rectify this, a formal amendment will be published shortly. This amendment will provide the corrected specifications and quantities for both items. We kindly ask that you refer only to the updated version of the document for the preparation and submission of your bid.Best regards, The procurement team