Pusuc PRocuREMENT AND DISPOSAL OF Pusuc AssETs No.S/2017 31 Cap.22:23 Competitive bidding method ( l) The competitive bidding method of procurement entails a process in which(a) a bidding document is published in accordance with section 38; and (b) all eligible and qualified bidders are permitted without discrimination to submit their bids; and (c) all bids from eligible and qualified bidders are assessed according to the same criteria; and (d) subject to subsection (2), the bidding is held in one stage. (2) Competitive bidding may be held in two stages, in accordance with prescribed procedures, where(a) it is not feasible to define fully the technical or contractual aspects of the procurement to elicit competitive bids; or (b) because of the complex nature of the procurement requirement, the procuring entity wishes to consider various technical or contractual solutions and to discuss them with bidders before deciding on the final technical or contmctual specifications. (3) Where the procurement requirement is of particularly high value or complexity, competitive bidding may be preceded by prescribed pre-qualification procedures, with a view to identifying qualified bidders prior to the submission of bids. 32 Restricted bidding method ( 1) The restricted bidding method of procurement entails a process in which the bidders are limited to those selected or invited by the procuring entity. (2) The restricted bidding method of procurement may be used(a) when the time and cost of considering a large number of bids is disproportionate to the estimated value of the procurement requirement; or (b) where urgency renders impracticable the time-limit prescribed for the purpose of section 39 ("Bidding period"): Provided that the urgency shall not be due to the procuring entity's unjustifiable delay; or (c) for procurement contracts with an estimated value that does not exceed the prescribed threshold. (3) Under the restricted bidding method of procurement(a) the procuring entity shall invite bids from a standing list of qualified bidders established and maintained by the procuring entity in accordance with the prescribed procedure; and (b) in all other respects, the procedures for the single stage competitive bidding method shall be employed. 33 Direct procurement method (1) The direct procurement method of procurement is one where a procuring entity procures its requirement from one bidder or supplier without having received bids from other bidders. (2) A procuring entity may use the direct procurement method(a) where no responsive bids have been submitted in response to a competitive bidding procedure: Provided that the procuring entity shall not substantially modify the requirements of the initial bid; or 62