SMMEs learn the ropes to secure contracts
Transnet Port Terminal hosts procurement workshop in Richards Bay
FROM common tendering mistakes to Transnet’s strict procurement protocols, local small business owners last week learned all the do’s and don’ts to secure port contracts.
The Transnet Port Terminal (TPT) hosted the informative procurement workshop in Richards Bay after handing over more than 30 certificates to SMMEs sponsored to become members of the Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
TPT Supplier Development Manager Zine Icheku started the session by explaining the essentials to fit the bill as an ‘Empowering Supplier’.
‘An Empowering Supplier within the context of B-BBEE must meet at least three requirements.
‘At least 25% of cost of sales, excluding labour cost and depreciation, must be procured from local producers or suppliers. Service industry labour cost is included, but capped at 15%.
‘And at least 25% of the transformation or beneficiation of raw materials includes local manufacturing, production or assembly and packaging.
‘We also look at skills transfer – at least 12 days must be spent per annum of productivity in assisting black emerging or qualifying small enterprises to increase their operation and financial capacity.’
Icheku added a minimum of 85% of labour costs should be paid to South African employees by service industry entities.
On governance processes and national treasury instructions, procurement expert Thulani Madela also highlighted that bidders tend to make minor mistakes that lose them big contracts.
‘Once you collect tender documents, ensure you attend all the sessions and submit all the compulsory documents,’ said Madela.
‘If you did not attend a briefing session or site visit, you are immediately disqualified.
‘And if you miss the tender document deadline by one minute, you lose your chance.
‘Never wait until the last day to submit your documents.
‘You can see all the tenders countrywide on www.etenders.gov.za, but if you do not have access to internet, you can collect TPT tenders physically at Transnet offices for a fee up to R100.
‘Ensure you read through the documents carefully to avoid sending in incomplete forms.’
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