REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

CONSULTING SERVICES ON STRENGTHENING THE LEVEL OF COMPETENCE AND KNOW HOW TRANSFER ON OPERATION OF THE METROLOGY EQUIPMENT (1ST BATCH)

REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES COMPETITIVENESS PROJECT Sector: General industry and trade sector IDA Credit No. 71740 IBRD Loan No. 94230 Project ID No. P177895 Reference No. MD-CEP-547270-CS-CQS

The Republic of Moldova has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Competitiveness Project (MSME) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include enhancement the technical competence and knowledge in the field of mass metrology of Moldovan NMI specialists through comprehensive training and structured know-how transfer, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the following domains: (i) Mass measurements; (ii) Length measurements; (iii) Pressure measurements and (iv) Force measurements. To achieve the assignment’s objectives, the Consultant shall develop the training materials and deliver trainings for NMI specialists at the NMI premises and ensure practical on-site trainings for specialists of NMI at Consultant’ premises according to the topics, duration and timeline suggested in ToR.

The assignment will be performed in the period May - July, 2026.
The Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment is attached to this request for expressions of interest.

The Project Implementation Unit of the MSME Competitiveness Project now invites eligible local consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services (required qualifications and experience of the firm, but not individual experts’ bio data).

This assignment will require an EURAMET metrology institute or consortium of such metrology institutes with appropriate technical and metrological qualification, comparable standards and internationally recognized knowledge, which: • Has relevant competence in the field of length, mass pressure and force measurements including relevant Calibration and Measurement Capabilities in the Bureau International des Poids et Measures (BIPM) key comparison database. • Has demonstrated previous experience in providing similar internship and/or trainings in relevant subject fields. • Has experience in the implementation of the donors’ and/or IFI’s sponsored projects. ● Has experience in preparation of analytical reports, training programs and training curricula.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the „Consultant’s Qualification-based Selection” method set out in the Procurement Regulations.

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications; but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

The Expression of Interest shall clearly state the name of the Consultant (individual Firm, Joint Venture or sub-consultancy). The Consultant shall provide relevant references (assignment name, Client, time frame, the role of the firm (main Consultant/Partner in JV/sub-consultant, contract amount, tasks performed etc.) to confirm its experience and qualifications.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by May 11, 2026, COB.

Project Implementation Unit of the MSME Competitiveness Project 180, Stefan cel Mare Ave., office 815, MD-2004, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova Tel: + 373 22 296-723 e-mail: piu@mded.gov.md web: www.uipac.md

E-mail for submission of the clarifications: piu@mded.gov.md

E-mail for submission of the EoIs: procurementmgf@gmail.com

Only the notification of EoI submission must be sent to piu@mded.gov.md TERMS OF REFERENCE Consulting Services on strengthening the level of competence and know how transfer on operation of the metrology equipment (1st batch)

A. INTRODUCTION The Government of the Republic of Moldova (GoM) is pursuing a policy agenda to support export-led economic growth. In this regard, an improved business environment is essential to foster sustainable private sector growth. Significant regulatory and institutional weaknesses in the business environment have been identified by the recently conducted Investment Climate Assessment as major obstacles to the private sector’s ability to perform efficiently and grow, and they also negatively affect investor confidence. The presence of cumbersome regulations undermines the competitiveness of private Moldovan enterprises and prevents increased investment by increasing the cost of doing business, and ultimately providing fertile ground for corruption, favoritism, and the informal economy. GoM is currently implementing a project - the Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSME) Competitiveness Project, which takes a comprehensive approach to business competitiveness with funding from the International Development Association and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The MSME’s project development objectives (PDO) are: (i) to reduce the regulatory burden, increase access to finance, increase the export competitiveness of Moldovan enterprises, and (ii) in case of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency, to respond promptly and effectively to it. The PDO will be achieved through a set of activities that aim to: (a) digitize government-to-business services and inspections, streamline permissive documents, and enhance national quality infrastructure to reduce the regulatory burden enterprises face; (b) support access to finance for enterprises through credit guarantees and enhance the capacity of the Credit Guarantee Fund (CGF), and (c) support the development of MSMEs and enhance their export competitiveness; d) support project management; e) support the government's response in case of an emergency.

B. BACKGROUND OF THE ASSIGNMENT The target segment of the current assignment is National Quality Infrastructure System (NQI). NQI activities under the project focuses on increasing MSME competitiveness and enabling exports. The NQI activities aim at addressing the enterprise sector’s difficulties in competing in foreign markets caused by the existing gaps in NQI and services. Improving the NQI system will be achieved through: (a) building capacity in metrology and testing area by upgrading selected laboratories and strengthening institutional capacity in order to expand the list of measurements and testing demanded by export oriented firms; (b) ensuring the traceability of the measurements performed to enterprises, as well as access to quality infrastructure services due to increased number of calibrations and accredited cross-comparisons at the European Union (EU) level and (c) strengthening accreditation and certification capacity.
Investment and technical assistance needs are significantly higher than what the Project can support. Thus, an allocation of approximately US$7 million equivalent will address these priority needs. Special attention will be paid to building skills among specialists to perform measurements and ensure more laboratories and services are accredited meeting the EU requirements. Within this framework, the Government of Moldova through the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization (the Client) and the National Metrology Institute (the Beneficiary) are seeking the services of an EURAMET member metrology institute (hereinafter Consultant), who has relevant expertise in the field of the assignment to provide the know-how transfer and training of the specialists of the Moldovan National Metrology Institute (hereinafter NMI).

C. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The main objectives of the assignment are to enhance the technical competence and knowledge in the field of mass metrology of Moldovan NMI specialists through comprehensive training and structured know-how transfer, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the following domains: (i) Mass measurements; (ii) Length measurements; (iii) Pressure measurements and (iv) Force measurements. D. TASK TO BE PERFORMED (SCOPE OF WORK) To achieve the assignment’s objectives, the Consultant shall develop the training materials and deliver trainings for NMI specialists at the NMI premises and ensure practical on-site trainings for specialists of NMI at Consultant’ premises according to the topics, duration and timeline suggested below. TASK I - Mass Measurements For the topics related to mass measurements, the Consultant will have to: • Develop and submit to the Client training materials. • Design and deliver training courses (at NMI premises) and practical trainings (at Consultant’ premises) in separate courses on mass measurements as follows:

1. Advanced Training for Calibrating Standard Weights Further below a detailed technical composition of the expected training topics is presented. Application of advanced calibration methods under controlled conditions including: • Preparation of weights for calibration; • Gravimetric vs. comparative calibration; • Choice of equipment and correct handling; • Determination of conventional and real mass; • Control of external influences (humidity, temperature, pressure). Correct development of uncertainty budgets according to GUM including: • Types of uncertainty: type A and type B; • Applied examples of uncertainty budgets; • Extended calculation and expression of results; • Estimation of individual contributions: equipment, operator, environment. Ensuring the quality of the calibration process and traceability of results including: • Metrological traceability: the traceability chain and national standards; • Writing calibration reports; • Document archiving, retention and review requirements; • Preparation for ISO/IEC 17025 audit. Applying knowledge in real situations and developing analytical skills including: • Complete calibration of a set of weights (practical); • Identification and correction of possible errors; • Case study: internal audit simulation with technical file analysis. • Support of interlaboratory comparison

Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the theoretical and practical trainings is described below. Item Nr. of participants Duration Training at NMI premises 3 4 days On-site training at Consultant’ premises 2 4 days

Composition of the on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 8 hours theory; • 19 hours laboratory practice; • 10 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate; • 3 hours practical evaluation of knowledge. Training at NMI premises: • 8 hours theory; • 16 hours laboratory practice; • 12 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate; • 4 hours practical evaluation of knowledge. 2. Advanced Training for Calibrating Non-Automatic Weighing Instruments A detailed technical composition of the expected training topics is presented further below. Application of advanced calibration methods under controlled conditions including: Complete understanding of the calibration method described in the EURAMET guide cg-18: • General test conditions: stability, environment, location; • Waiting time, hysteresis effects, loading-unloading; • Preliminary checks of the instrument; • Determination of indication errors at different loads; • Repeatability and eccentricity. Complete application of a calibration procedure on a real NAWI: • Preparation of the device and selection of standard weights; • Multi-point calibration: increasing, decreasing loads; • Correction of weighing errors; • Evaluation of the effect of the weight position on the platform (eccentricity). Development of the uncertainty budget associated with the calibration of a NAWI: • Sources of uncertainty in the calibration of scales: weights, instrument, environmental influences; • Structure and completion of an uncertainty budget; • Calculation of combined and extended uncertainty; • Examples of calculations in Excel. Ensuring traceability and compliance of technical documentation: • Structure and content of a calibration report; • Metrological traceability requirements; • Reference equipment tracking and related records; • Examples of complete calibration reports.

Training of personnel for audits and maintaining accreditation: • Critical aspects assessed by auditors; • Process control and method validation; • Non-conformity management and corrective actions.

Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants is described below. Item Nr. of participants Duration Training at NMI premises 3 3 days On-site training at Consultant’ premises 3 3 days Composition of on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 4 hours theory; • 15 hours laboratory practice; • 11 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate; • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge. Training at NMI premises: • 4 hours theory; • 16 hours laboratory practice; • 10 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate; • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge. TASK II- Length Measurements For the topics related to length measurements, the Consultant will have to:

• Develop and submit to the Client training materials.
• Design and deliver theoretical training courses (at NMI premises) and practical trainings (at Consultant’ premises) in separate courses on length measurements as follows:

1. Training for handling and calibration of gauge blocks, calipers, micrometers and comparators calibration of rulers and tapes A detailed technical composition of the expected training topics is presented further below. • The Normative documentation in the field with requirements and technical aspects • Technical and metrology aspects • Correct handling of instruments (care and maintenance) • Calibration procedures • Identification and evaluation of uncertainty factors • Determining and calculating uncertainty • Reporting results • Support in the development of a calibration procedure and adaptation of the normative document to the needs of the NMI’ clients Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the theoretical and practical trainings is described below. Item Nr. of participants Duration Training at NMI premises 3 5 days On-site training at Consultant’ premises 3 5 days

Composition of on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 4 hours theory • 15 hours laboratory practice • 11 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge Training at NMI premises: • 4 hours theory • 16 hours laboratory practice • 10 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge

3. Handling and calibration of angle measurements (Theodolite calibration) and handling of Taylor Hobson Roughness Machine A detailed technical composition of the training topics is presented further below: • Introduction in angle fields • The Normative documentation in the field with requirements and technical aspects • Technical and metrology aspects • Correct handling of instruments (care and maintenance) • Calibration procedures • Identification and evaluation of uncertainty factors • Determining and calculating uncertainty • Reporting results • Support in the development of a calibration procedure and adaptation of the normative document to the needs of NMI’ clients Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the theoretical and practical trainings is described below.

Item Nr. of participants Duration Training at NMI premises 3 3 days On-site training at Consultant’ premises 3 3 days

Composition of on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 4 hours theory • 10 hours laboratory practice • 8 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge Training at NMI premises: • 4 hours theory • 10 hours laboratory practice • 8 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge

TASK III- Pressure Measurements For the topics related to length measurements, the Consultant will have to:

• Develop and submit to the Client training materials.
• Design and deliver theoretical training courses (at NMI premises) and practical trainings (at Consultant’ premises) in separate courses on pressure measurements as follows:

1. Advanced training for pressure balances A detailed technical composition of the training topics is presented further below: • Cross-floating technology; • Cross-floating process with zero separator; • Preparation and maintenance of pressure balances according OIML R 110; • Selection of medium; • Theory of piston balances and technical construction; • Special construction for gas / oil pressure balances; • Non-rotating piston standards; • Distortion coefficient that defines the effective area of piston-cylinder assembly; • Changes of effective area between gauge pressure and absolute pressure. Uncertainty analysis and cross-floating techniques. • Specific issues of pressure balances certificates of calibration; • Calibration of special construction of pressure balances:” negative gauge”,” free piston construction”; • Support instrumentation for cross-floating technique: filters, sealing systems, fittings; Generator of pressure for pressure balances • Soft for cross-floating techniques, software copy; • Pressure balance for oxygen, medical device, etc. • Support in the development of a calibration procedure and adaptation of the normative document to the needs of NMI clients. • Determination of measurement uncertainty based on calibration certificates Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the theoretical and practical trainings is described below. Item Nr. of participants Duration Training at NMI premises 3 5 days On-site training at Consultant’ premises 3 5 days

Composition of on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 8 hours theory • 19 hours laboratory practice • 10 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 3 hours practical evaluation of knowledge Training at NMI premises: • 8 hours theory • 16 hours laboratory practice • 12 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 4 hours practical evaluation of knowledge

2. Advanced pressure metrology training (excluding vacuum ranges) A detailed technical composition of the training topics is presented further below: • Theory of pressure metrology • Basical technology used pressure standards • Physical methods of pressure metrology • Different techniques for pressure metrology • Uncertainty analysis of Pressure Metrology • Basic description of pressure gauges with focus for key parameter for selection of calibration methods • Pressure generators and supporting • External equipment: sealings, filters, fittings, valves, maintenance • Best practices in pressure laboratory • Recalibration period for pressure standards • Modification of pressure calibration certificates according use technology • Practical examples for calibration certificates for all pressure standards • Report of calibration and budget of uncertainty adapted at NMI-MD laboratory • Support in obtaining of CMC tables (KCDB) • Specific calibration method for pressure use for definition for another quantities • Pressure measurements for leakages in medium protection • Conversion of pressure units Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the practical trainings is described below. Item Nr. of participants Duration On-site training at Consultant’ premises 2 4 days

Composition of on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 4 hours theory • 16 hours laboratory practice • 10 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 2 hours practical evaluation of knowledge

TASK IV – Force Measurements For the topics related to mass measurements, the Consultant will have to:

• Develop and submit to the Client training materials.
• Design and deliver theoretical training courses (at NMI premises) and practical trainings (at Consultant’ premises) in separate courses on force measurements as follows:

1. Calibration of Tension/compression testing machines and dynamometers according standard ISO 376 A detailed technical composition of the training topics is presented further below: • Introduction to Force Metrology, ISO 7500-1 and ISO 376: definitions, traceability, and structure of ISO 376. • Types of Force Sensors and Dynamometers: tension, compression, and combined types, load cells and mechanical dynamometers • Classification of Dynamometers According to ISO 376. • Principles of Calibration According to ISO 376: ascending/descending series, creep, repeatability, reversibility. • Test Setup and Equipment Requirements: force machines, adapters, alignment systems. • Environmental and Alignment Considerations: effects of temperature, humidity, and mechanical misalignment. • Calibration Procedures and Sequence • Step-by-step execution of calibration cycles • Considerations for force direction and alignment. • Evaluation of Results and Data Analysis: deviation, reproducibility, interpolation errors. • Uncertainty Budget in ISO 376 Calibration - influencing factors and detailed calculation. • Correction Factors and Uncertainty Reporting. • Application of correction curves. • Final calibration certificate structure. • Practical Examples and drafting of the report and calculations. • Verification and Recalibration Intervals. • Maintenance of Dynamometers - mechanical handling, cleaning, and verification. • Best Practices in Force Calibration Laboratories. • Adaptation of ISO 376 to National Procedures and Standards. Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the theoretical and practical trainings is described below.

Item Nr. of participants Duration Training at NMI premises 3 5 days

Composition of the training at NMI premises: • 12 hours theory • 16 hours laboratory practice • 4 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 8 hours practical evaluation of knowledge

2. Calibration of Torque Wrenches A detailed composition of the training topics is presented further below: • Introduction to Torque Metrology • Definition and importance of torque • Traceability and SI unit • Applications in industry and quality control • Overview of Torque Wrenches • Types: Click, beam, dial, electronic, hydraulic • Working principles and common use cases • Key parameters: range, resolution, class • Fundamentals of Torque Measurement • Static vs. dynamic torque, focused on statical • Torque application methods (manual, automated) • Understanding measurement axis, reaction forces, and parasitic effects • Torque Standards and Reference Equipment • Reference transducers and torque calibration systems • Characteristics of torque testers and torque measurement chains • International and National Standards for Calibration • Preparation for Torque Calibration • Inspection and conditioning of torque tools • Mounting fixtures and adaptors • Alignment and mechanical setup • Calibration Procedures and Sequences • Application of torque in clockwise/counterclockwise directions • Loading steps, repeatability, and hysteresis • Ascending/descending sequences • Error Sources and Best Practices • Human influence, angular deflection, friction • Tool ergonomics and user training • Uncertainty Budget in Torque Calibration - identification of uncertainty contributors and practical calculation examples • Calibration Certificate Creation – soft for calculation and expression of uncertainty and conformity statements, adaptation to NMI-MD conditions. • Hands-On Calibration Exercises: step-by-step calibration of different torque wrench types, data recording and analysis using software or manual methods. • Selection and Use of Auxiliary Equipment: adapters, extension bars, sockets, couplings. Maintenance of calibration fixtures and equipment. • Recalibration Intervals and Tool Maintenance. • Drafting Calibration Procedures. • Laboratory Setup and Safety Considerations. Tentative schedule, duration and number of participants to the theoretical and practical trainings is described below. Item Nr. of participants Duration

On-site training at Consultant’ premises 2 5 days

Composition of on-site practical training at Consultant’ premises: • 8 hours theory • 20 hours laboratory practice • 4 hours result evaluation and preparation of calibration certificate • 8 hours practical evaluation of knowledge

E. DETAILS OF THE ASSIGNMENT Theoretical trainings will be provided in Chisinau within NMI’ facilities. Estimated duration of the all trainings is estimated at 25 days or around 200 academic hours.

Practical training (on-site training) will be provided abroad within the Consultant’ laboratory. Each on-site training will be structured for 4-5 days /domain.

F. COMMON DETAILS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONSULTANT’S WORK The tasks accomplishment will end at the middle of 2009. The consecutiveness of the task accomplishment is free, at the opinion of the consultant and according the availableness of the trainers and bodies that will be involved in realisation of the project. Recommended documents, language: • All key theoretical training materials, printed documents including Power-Point applications, will be delivered in English. Each participant will receive hand-outs of the related training material. The training materials and document during the trainings will be available in English. • The supporting documents should have added value, importance and significance for participants in respect to the objectives described. The Consultant will have to consider for expenditure estimation inter alia the following items of the costs: • Fees for trainers (training in Moldova plus preparation/reporting at home), daily allowance for staying in Moldova; • Cost of necessary international and local travel, including transportation of the Personnel of the Consultant by the most appropriate means of transport and the most direct practicable route; • Cost of applicable international or local communications such as the use of telephone and email required for the purpose of the Services; • Development presentations and supporting documents in English Printing materials; • Renting training room (including refreshment); • Renting technical equipment (data projector, interpretation facilities); • Organization and logistics etc. at place; • Fees for laboratory use, if applicable; • In-country travel costs for Moldovan specialists during the internships (i.e. airport pick-up and drop, etc); • Development presentations and supporting documents in English (internships)

The Consultant shall be responsible for:

• Carrying out the required assessment at best level;
• Coordination of the progress status with the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization (MEDD) and PIU for MSME;
• Producing, for delivery to the MSME PIU and to the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization of all specified below deliverables in a timely manner and acceptable quality. G. REPORTS / DELIVERABLES Within the time frame of this assignment, the Consultant will be expected to develop the following deliverables: • First Progress Report. This paper will comprise inter alia (i) theoretical training programs; (ii) training materials by training topic based on training programs and (iii) description and planning how the practical trainings (internships) will be organized, inter alia agenda for the internship. The report will be submitted within four weeks after commencing the assignment. • Second Progress Report. This paper will include the report on theoretical training sessions delivered by the Consultant to specialists of NMI. The report will be submitted within eight weeks after commencing the assignment. • Third Progress Report. This paper will include the report on practical trainings (internships) provided by the Consultant. The report will be submitted within eleven weeks after commencing the assignment. • Final Report. The Final Report is the report comprising all the assignment results. The Report will be submitted within thirteen weeks after commencing the assignment. The PIU and the MEDD may provide comments to the deliverables, which should be addressed by the Consultant accordingly.

All Deliverables will be provided in electronic form and in hard copies (if required). The language of the deliverables shall be English and Romanian.

H. PERIOD and TERMS of the ASSIGNMENT The assignment will be implemented in the period from May to July, 2026.

I. LOCAL INPUTS The NMI will provide to the Consultant the following available materials and support: • Logistical support relevant to the assignment; • Information on type and models of the metrology equipment available within the metrology laboratories of the Client.

J. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ASSIGNMENT This assignment will require an EURAMET metrology institute or consortium such metrology institutes with appropriate technical and metrological qualification, comparable standards and internationally recognized knowledge, which: • Has relevant competence in the field of length, mass pressure and force measurements including relevant Calibration and Measurement Capabilities in the Bureau International des Poids et Measures (BIPM) key comparison database. • Has demonstrated previous experience in providing similar internship and/or trainings in relevant subject fields. • Has experience in the implementation of the donors’ and/or IFI’s sponsored projects. • Has experience in preparation of analytical reports, training programs and training curricula.

K. TERMS OF PAYMENT The Contract will be the Standard World Bank Lump-sum contract.

Tentative payment schedule is provided below:

(i) advance payment, in the amount of 10% of the contract – within 30 days after signing of the contract. (ii) 2nd payment, in the amount of 25% of the contract - within 30 days after approval of the first progress report. (iii) 3rd payment, in the amount of 25% of the contract - within 30 days after approval of the second progress report. (iv) 4th payment, in the amount of 25% of the contract - within 30 days after approval of the third progress report. (v) Final payment, in the amount of 15% of the contract - within 30 days after approval of the final report.