Public calls for tenders represent major development opportunities for businesses in Cameroon. However, the submission procedure contains many pitfalls that candidate SMEs must absolutely avoid.

First of all, establishing the application file is a crucial step. “Many companies underestimate the importance of the administrative documents required and make errors in their constitution,” laments Mr. Tasse Fabrice, head of profiling and subcontracting opportunities at BSTP-CMR. Omissions, inconsistencies, missing documents: these formal failures can compromise the admissibility of the offer.

Likewise, the financial part of the file deserves particular attention. “Some bidders make the mistake of underestimating costs, particularly those linked to contractual obligations, or of offering a price that is too high,” explains Mr. Tasse Fabrice. A subtle balance must be found to present an economically viable offer.

Furthermore, companies must respect the deadlines set for submitting offers. “Failure to meet deadlines, even for reasons beyond their control, automatically results in the exclusion of the candidate,” underlines Mr. Tasse Fabrice.

Finally, the negotiation and contracting phase constitutes another potential pitfall. “Some companies make the mistake of wanting to renegotiate the terms of the market once they have been selected. This is unacceptable behavior which can cause them to lose the market,” warns Fabrice Tasse.

Faced with these various pitfalls, companies must demonstrate impeccable professionalism. “The preparation of the offer must be carried out with the greatest rigor, based on a good knowledge of the requirements of the public authorities,” recommends Mr. Tasse Fabrice.

A major challenge, but essential to win these strategic public contracts in Cameroon.