1. I have been approved as an ESCWA/UNGM vendor but I have never been invited to bid.

This may be because the product or service you offer is rarely required, and we simply haven't needed to buy any.

2. I heard there is a bid going on for "xyz" product or service. I want to participate. Who shall I contact?

You are encouraged to contact our office. Please note that you will be required to undertake the same registration process before your company will be considered. 

3. Are ESCWA purchases tax/duty free?

As an intergovernmental organization, ESCWA is exempt from payment of all taxes and duties for all its purchases.

4. Does ESCWA make purchases for the whole United Nations system?

No. The Procurement Unit organizes procurement for the ESCWA Secretariat and associated programmes/projects only. Other United Nations bodies carry out procurement within their own established rules.

5. How does ESCWA pay suppliers?

ESCWA standard payment terms are net payable in 30 days upon receipt of invoice and delivery of goods or performance of contractual services, whichever is later. ESCWA does not issue letters of credit or make advance payments.

6. Does the United Nations require performance guarantees?

ESCWA may require a successful contractor to furnish performance bonds in the United Nations standard format or similar forms of guarantee. The amount of performance bonds/guarantees will vary depending on the nature of the requirements. The United Nations may also include a liquidated damages clause in its contractual documents in case adherence to the schedule of delivery of goods or performance of contractual services is critical to meet the requirements of ESCWA.