Objectives

The primary objective is to procure GEMPACK software and five user licenses to support a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) course training. This initiative aims to ensure learning continuity, enable the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) team to directly apply training concepts using the designated software, and build sustainable internal capacity to independently operate, modify, and utilise economic modelling tools aligned with national policy priorities.

Scope of Work

• Supply five (5) GEMPACK software licenses.
• Develop a South African recursive-dynamic CGE model specifically tailored to the dtic’s mandate and policy focus areas.
• Collaborate closely with the dtic modelling team to identify key policy questions, design priority interventions, and execute relevant policy simulations.
• Deliver comprehensive training and a structured handover process to equip the dtic team with the practical knowledge and skills required to operate, interpret, update, and apply the model independently.

Technical Requirements

• Provision of valid GEMPACK software licensing for five users.
• Delivery of a fully functional, recursively dynamic CGE model calibrated for the South African economy.
• Integration of hands-on simulation exercises aligned with specific policy scenarios.
• Submission of completed standard bidding documents (SBD 1, SBD 4, SBD 6.1) and POPIA consent forms.
• Proof of Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration with verified banking details.
• Valid Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) documentation to claim preference points.
• All quotations must be VAT-inclusive, firm for the contract duration, and strictly adhere to the pricing format in Annexure A.

Skills Requirements

• Proven expertise in GEMPACK software configuration, calibration, and solution techniques.
• Advanced experience in developing and maintaining recursive-dynamic CGE models, preferably for national economies.
• Strong analytical capabilities in economic policy simulation, scenario testing, and macroeconomic data integration.
• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver technical training programs for government officials.
• Proficiency in translating complex economic modelling outputs into actionable policy insights.
• Familiarity with South African macroeconomic data structures and departmental policy frameworks.

Notes on Unusual or Complicated Terms

Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) Model: A quantitative economic modelling technique that uses systems of simultaneous equations to represent an entire economy. It assesses how different policies (e.g., tax reforms, trade changes, subsidies) affect various sectors, households, and markets simultaneously.

Recursive-Dynamic CGE Model: A variant of CGE modelling that solves the economy sequentially over multiple time periods. This allows analysts to capture short-to-medium term adjustments, capital accumulation, and evolving policy impacts rather than static snapshots.

GEMPACK: A specialised software suite designed specifically for constructing, solving, and analysing CGE models. It provides integrated tools for data preparation, equation writing, and result interpretation.

80/20 Point Scoring System: A public procurement evaluation method where 80 points are awarded based on price competitiveness and 20 points for preferential procurement goals (including historically disadvantaged individuals, SMME participation, local procurement, and B-BBEE compliance).

SBD Forms: Standardised South African government bidding templates (SBD 1 for bidder details, SBD 4 for declarations of interest/conflict, SBD 6.1 for claiming preference points) mandatory for all state tenders.

CSD Registration: The Central Supplier Database is the official national registry for all entities wishing to supply goods or services to South African government departments. Verification of banking details is compulsory before contract award.