CELL PHONE SERVICES

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items, specifically mobile telephone services for the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia. The General Services Office (GSO) is seeking a contractor to provide these services with a focus on reliable, clear, and uninterrupted network connections.

• Coverage: At least 90% of Colombian territory, with special consideration for urban areas and main traffic routes. 4G/LTE coverage required in major metropolitan areas (Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, Barranquilla) and at least 3G in medium-sized cities. 4G/LTE coverage is also required for the Embassy compound.

• Services: Unlimited voice calls within Colombia to any carrier. Data plans with options for 36GB, 50GB, and unlimited gigabytes. Free access (not using data plan) to WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter. Caller ID must be available for incoming calls, with the ability to disable send ID for VIP numbers.

• Technical: Minimum 10 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload bandwidth for 4G LTE connections in main cities. Ability to retain existing cell phone numbers via "Portability".

• Compliance: Contractor must be a licensed mobile network operator in Colombia. Must enroll IMEIs into the Colombian government site and blacklist stolen devices. Must be registered in the “SIIA” system and authorized to sell mobile equipment by the Colombian Ministry of Information Technology and Communications (MINTIC).

• International: 24-hour international connectivity with the USA, Europe, and other countries. Minimum 500 minutes for International Long-Distance calls from Colombia to USA, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Roaming services required for South America and the USA, including voice, SMS, and data. Roaming tracking is required.

• Period of Performance: Offer must be valid for six (6) months.

• Payment Terms: EFT net 30 calendar days, upon receipt and acceptance of delivery. No advance payments.

• Submission: Offers are due by May 20th, 2026, at 4:00 PM (Bogota, Colombia - local time) via email to bogotagsocompras@state.gov. Use "PR16001500" as the subject line.

• Questions: Due by May 14th, 2026, at 4:00 PM (Bogota, Colombia - local time) via email to bogotagsocompras@state.gov.

• Evaluation Criteria: Bidders must include/comply with all minimum requirements. Evidence of past experience, financial resources, and warranty terms are required. A statement certifying understanding of the requirement, delivery terms (DDP at Embassy warehouse in Bogota), payment terms, and offer validity is necessary.

• Prices must be in Colombian Pesos (COP). Only for Colombian Vendors.

• U.S. vendors can submit proposals in USD, but prices must be DDP at the Embassy warehouse in Bogotá. U.S. Embassy Bogotá will NOT emit a tax exemption certification for Colombian taxes.

• This announcement is the only solicitation; a written solicitation will not be issued.

• U.S. vendors should be aware of Colombian courier limits ($2,000 USD and/or 50 kilos MAX) for packages; exceeding these limits will incur additional charges (Customs Brokerage, Release of air waybills, Storage fees) which MUST be included in the vendor's offer.

• The contractor must provide the "Manager Mobile Service" platform for geolocation, inventory control, and indicator generation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a representation and certification form related to "Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services" and "Security Prohibitions and Exclusions" (FAR 52.240-90 and 52.240-91). It requires contractors to represent their compliance with regulations concerning the use and provision of certain telecommunications equipment and services, particularly those originating from or connected to specific foreign entities or countries.

• Contractor Representation: Requires the contractor to state whether they will provide or use covered telecommunications equipment or services, and whether they use equipment, systems, or services that incorporate such technology. This representation is made upon submission of an offer.
• Definitions: Provides definitions for terms such as "covered telecommunications equipment or services," "sensitive technology," "restricted business operations," and "FASCSA order."
• Prohibitions: Outlines prohibitions on providing or using specific products or services, including covered applications, Kaspersky Lab-covered articles, and covered telecommunications equipment or services as substantial or essential components of systems. It also prohibits certain unmanned aircraft systems manufactured or assembled by specific foreign entities.
• Disclosure Requirements: If a contractor cannot represent compliance, they must disclose specific information about non-compliant products or services within 72 hours.
• Certifications: Includes certifications related to "Sudan prohibition" (restricted business operations in Sudan) and "Iran prohibitions" (transactions with Iran, export of sensitive technology to Iran).
• Executive Agency Review: The Contracting Officer will review disclosures to determine if waivers can be sought.

Bidders must carefully review this form and its associated clauses to understand the restrictions on telecommunications equipment, services, and certain other technologies. Failure to comply or properly disclose can impact eligibility for award or contract performance. Bidders must conduct a reasonable inquiry to ensure compliance and be prepared to provide representations and certifications as required.