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QU24/3024: Expert to provide Exporter Guidelines for European Nordic markets.

Vacancy Number: Qu24/02905

Location:	Chisinau, Moldova
Application Deadline:	25 Mar 2024, 16:30 (GMT+2:00)
Application Extended deadline:	01 Apr 2024, 16:30 (GMT+2:00)
Application Extended deadline:	08 Apr 2024, 16:30 (GMT+2:00)
Type of Contract:	Individual Contract
Starting date:	01 Apr 2024
Reference to the project:	AdTrade Phase III
Expected Duration of Assignment:	50 working days over a period of 4 months
Submission Instructions: Invitation to Submit an Offer for Consultant to provide Exporter Guidelines for European Nordic markets (Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark) The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is currently implementing a project Advance Cross River Capacity for Trade that requires the services of an individual to perform the work described in this document.  In consideration of your qualifications, we are hereby inviting you to submit an offer for this particular assignment.  To assist you in understanding the requirements of this assignment, we have attached hereto the following:  The Terms of Reference for the assignment described above; The standard Letter of Confirmation of Interest and Availability, which you must accomplish and submit to UNDP; and The Individual Contract and its General Terms and Conditions, which you would be expected to sign in the event you are the selected Offeror in this procurement process.   Should you be interested and decide to submit an offer for this assignment, kindly submit directly in the online supplier portal no later than the deadline indicated in the system. Offers must be submitted directly in the system following this link: http://supplier.quantum.partneragencies.org using the profile you may have in the portal.  Follow the instructions in the user guide to search for the competition using search filters, namely Negotiation ID: UNDP-MDA-00423 and subscribe to the competition in order to get notifications in case of amendments of the competition document and requirements. In case you have never registered before, follow this link to register a profile: https://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/fscmUI/faces/PrcPosRegisterSupplier?prcBuId=300000127714247 based on the instructions in guides available in UNDP website: https://www.undp.org/procurement/business/resources-for-bidders. Please note that the access link to the Supplier registered profile is sent from Oracle within up to 3 days. In case you have not received the access link after 3 days since registration, you should address for support to UNDP at the email address: sc.md@undp.org. In case you encounter errors with registration (e.g. system states Supplier already is registered), you should address for support to UNDP at the email address: sc.md@undp.org. Computer firewall could block oracle or undp.org extension and Suppliers might not receive the Oracle notifications. Please turn down any firewalls on your computers to ensure receipt of email notification.  Do not create a new profile if you already have one. Use the forgotten password feature in case you do not remember the password or the username from previous registration. Should you require further clarifications on the application through the Quantum online portal, kindly contact the Procurement Unit at sc.md@undp.org. Please pay attention that the proposal shall be submitted online through the Quantum system and any proposal sent to the above email shall be disqualified. Should you require further clarifications on the Notice, Terms of Reference or other requirements, kindly communicate using the messaging functionality in the portal. Deadline for Submission of Offers (Date and Time), which is visible in the online supplier portal will be final. The portal will not accept submission of any offer after that date and time. It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure that the offer is submitted prior to this deadline for submission. Applicants are advised to upload offer documents and to submit their offer a day prior or well before the date and time indicated under the deadline for submission of Offers. Do not wait until last minute. If Applicant faces any issue during submitting offers at the last minutes prior to the deadline for submission, UNDP may not be able to assist on such a short notice and will not be held liable in such instance. UNDP will not accept any offer that is not submitted directly through the System. If any discrepancy between deadline in the system and in deadline indicated elsewhere, deadline in the system prevails. We look forward to your favorable response and thank you in advance for your interest in working with UNDP.   Sincerely, UNDP Moldova
Supporting Documents: 52619583_Terms of Reference_Qu243024 52619348_UNDP Quantum - User Guide for Suppliers - Russian 52619356_UNDP Quantum - User Guide for Suppliers - English 52619368_UNDP General Terms and Conditions for Individual Contractors 52619375_Self-registration guide for Individual Contractors 52619386_Offerors Letter to UNDP Confirming Interest and Availability 52619422_IC_Statement of Health_Individual Contractors UN_Supplier_Negotiation_UNDP-MDA-00423_English UNDP General Conditions of Individual Contract

Mr. Dmitrii Parfentiev.

Background

The overall objective and expected outcome of the Advanced Cross River Capacities for Trade project implemented by the UNDP with the financial assistance from Sweden and United Kingdom is to secure that men and women on both banks of the Nistru River have better livelihoods and living conditions, due to an improved cross-river cooperation to access the opportunities offered by Moldova’s external trade arrangements, contributing to an environment of trust and cooperation across the post-conflict divide.

Specific project objectives (outputs):

• Output 1. Improved cross-river exchange of information, knowledge and experience on the export promotion mechanisms on the right bank, and awareness-raising on the opportunities provided by external trade agreements
• Output Enhanced competitiveness and joint exports of business communities from both riverbanks through improved companies’ exporting capacities and cluster and value chain development
• Output 3. Enhanced capacities for policy formulation leading to a conducive business environment on both banks and reduction of barriers to trade and economic cooperation
• Output 4. Expand the MSME sector in the Transnistrian region and security zone via support to new or emerging businesses, in particular women-led and with impact on the most vulnerable (migrants, young people including minorities representatives, elderly people etc.). 

The project plans to draw on the experience achieved by the business community from the right bank in making use of the DCFTA and SPTCA instruments and transfer it to the left bank, connecting these business communities. As a result of the improved capacity and competitiveness of MSMEs from the Transnistria region, they are expected to intensify their export activity and penetrate new markets or expand on the existing ones. As the small business sector, being the backbone of every sound economy, is underrepresented in the Transnistrian region, the project will seek to expand the MSME sector in the region by supporting several start-ups and young companies with a particular focus on benefitting women and vulnerable groups.

The AdTrade project is focusing on facilitation of cross-river cooperation and integration of exporters, expanding access of Transnistria enterprises (particularly SMEs), to export promotion mechanisms on the right bank, as well as provide tailored support and build necessary skills, considering specific needs of current and future exporters from the region.

Current competition is launched to strengthen the export capacity of Moldovan private sector and contribute to the diversification of trade, by expanding national export opportunities on Nordic countries market, through elaboration of exporter guidelines for European Nordic markets.

Scope of work

The main objective of this assignment is to familiarize national exporters with the rules and procedures for market penetration in European Nordics Market/ ENM comprising Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark in a user-friendly exporter guidelines. The developed guidelines will play a pivotal role in shaping a market penetration strategy for ENM, offering exporters clear insights into the workflow, involved stakeholders, risks, duration, and specific procedures unique to ENM.

In-Depth Market Analysis:

The primary objective is to create an in-depth resource that delves into the intricacies of ENM. Through exhaustive market analysis, Moldovan exporters will gain a nuanced understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and the competitive landscape in Nordics. This segment of the guide will serve as an indispensable tool, offering insights to tailor strategies that align precisely with the specific demands of the Nordics market.

Regulatory and Cultural Navigation:

A key focus is to conduct thorough research to compile regulatory details and offer cultural insights specific to ENM. This involves a detailed examination of import/export policies, compliance standards, and cultural nuances relevant to successful engagement in the Nordics market. By consolidating regulatory intricacies and providing cultural context, the guide will empower Moldovan exporters with the knowledge necessary to navigate the legal landscape and establish meaningful connections in the region.

Strategies for Market Presence:

Moving forward, the guide will concentrate on empowering exporters with actionable strategies to thrive in ENM. Practical advice and insights will be provided, offering a strategic roadmap to establish a robust and sustainable presence in Nordics. This includes guidance on pricing strategies, distribution channels, and effective marketing approaches tailored to the unique dynamics of the Nordics market.

Export Procedures and Business Etiquette:

The final objective is to augment exporters' understanding of export procedures, compliance requirements, and business etiquette specific to ENM. This section of the guide will offer a detailed exploration of the intricacies involved in export procedures, ensuring exporters are well-informed and equipped to navigate the complexities of doing business in Nordics. Understanding the nuances of business etiquette will further contribute to successful and enduring business relationships in the Nordics market.

Specific tasks:

The expert will work in close cooperation with the project staff and project implementing parties. The research will be conducted by expert under the project manager's supervision and approved/adjusted methodology.  The specific tasks for the expert are presented below as follows:

1. Market-Specific Insights:

• Conduct a detailed analysis of market trends in the Nordics
• Examine consumer behaviour patterns specific to Nordics.
• Analyse the competitive dynamics in the ENM.
• Compile findings into a comprehensive guide for Moldovan exporters, providing insights that enable precise alignment of products and services with local preferences and expectations in Nordics.

2. Regulatory Navigation:

• Investigate the regulatory landscape of Nordics pertaining to import and export.
• Provide Moldovan exporters with a comprehensive overview of import/export policies specific to Nordics.
• Examine standards compliance requirements for products entering the Nordics market.
• Synthesize regulatory insights into a guide that facilitates seamless navigation of legal requirements, ensuring a compliant and trustworthy business presence in Nordics.

3. Cultural Nuances and Business Strategies:

• Explore and understand the cultural nuances of Nordics relevant to business interactions.
• Develop insights to guide Moldovan exporters in approaching business relationships with cultural sensitivity.
• Integrate practical strategies and tips into the guide to empower exporters in establishing a robust market presence in Nordics.
• Provide specific advice on pricing strategies and optimal distribution channels tailored to the cultural context of the Nordics market.

4. Export Procedures and Etiquette:

• Break down the intricacies of export procedures specific to Nordics.
• Outline compliance requirements for Moldovan exporters engaging in business with Nordics.
• Provide detailed information on business etiquette specific to the Nordics market.
• Compile all information into a comprehensive guide, aiming to demystify the export process and equip Moldovan exporters with the knowledge needed for confident navigation in the Nordics market, ensuring smooth transactions and fostering positive business interactions.

The expert will work in cooperation with the project team and under the supervision of the Project Manager. All communications and documentation related to the assignment will be in English.

Requirements for experience

The required incumbent’s qualifications and/or experience are presented below:

Education:

• University degree in economics, business, international trade, and other related areas

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in economics, business, trade;
• Demonstrated experience in organizing and implementing market studies at national and international level using both quantitative and qualitative methods (please include in your technical proposal a list of market studies (at least 3 studies).
• At least 5 years of experience working with international organizations

Competencies and skills:

• Strong analytical and writing skills; excellent communication skills.
• Knowledge of the country’s economy and MSMEs sector.
• Excellent presentation, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical, report writing and communication skills.
• Independence from any business sector.

Language requirements:

• Fluency in English and Romanian is required for this assignment; knowledge of Russian will be an advantage.

Proven commitment to the core values of the United Nations, in particular, respecting differences of culture, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, language, age, HIV status, disability, and sexual orientation, or another status. Please specify in CV, in case you belong to the group(s) under-represented in the UN Moldova and/or the area of assignment.

UNDP Moldova is committed to workforce diversity. Women, persons with disabilities, Roma and other ethnic or religious minorities, persons living with HIV, as well as refugees and other non-citizens legally entitled to work in the Republic of Moldova, are particularly encouraged to apply.

Documents to be included

Applicants shall submit the following required documents:

• Offeror's Letter confirming Interest and Availability, including financial offer, according to Annex 2;
• Technical proposal that must include, inter alia, cover letter, including an outline of proposed methodological approach, sample(s) of previous similar or comparable research produced by the proposer;
• CV, including information about experience in similar assignments.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Important notice: The applicants who have the statute of Government Official / Public Servant prior to appointment will be asked to submit the following documentation:

• a no-objection letter in respect of the applicant received from the Government, and;
• the applicant is certified in writing by the Government to be on official leave without pay for the entire duration of the Individual Contract.

Financial proposal

Payments will be made post factum on a lump-sum basis, upon submission and approval of deliverables, and certification by the Project Manager that the services have been satisfactorily performed