AllAfrica.com

The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) is in the process of updating its Central Vendor Database with all mandatory vendor requirements in particular the BBBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) Certificates and Tax Clearance Certificates. Therefore, all business owners and suppliers currently conducting business with GPG are required to be BBBEE Compliant by 7 December 2011.

The aim is to ensure that service providers keep their active status of continuing to conduct business transactions with government.

Suppliers are encouraged to submit their BBBEE certificate or a letter from a professional (i.e. a bookkeeper or accountant) immediately to avoid that last minute rush.

Any South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) endorsed BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) rating company can assist service providers in obtaining a valid BBBEE Certificate. Service providers are therefore requested to update their company profile urgently by providing a valid BBBEE Certificate (only SANAS approved) as well as a valid and original Tax Clearance Certificate.

Exempt Micro Enterprises (EME's) are not compelled to submit a BBBEE certificate but a letter from a professional (i.e. a bookkeeper or accountant) bearing the professional's practice number. The letter must confirm that the Exempt Micro Enterprise (EME)'s turnover is less than R5 million per annum.

The implications of not submitting either the letter or the BBBEE certificate is the forfeiture of Preference points and hence, putting the company in a disadvantageous position in both Request for Quotation (RFQ) and Tenders.

The update of information is free and to the benefit of all parties.

All documents must be submitted to the Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) Help Desk, 78 Fox Street, Johannesburg between 08h30 and 15h30, Monday to Friday.

Issued by: Gauteng Finance