Sole Source BPA set up for Legal Advice

The Department of State has issued a Special Notice announcing its intent to award a sole source Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) to Claeys & Engels, a Belgian law firm. The BPA will provide legal advisory services for the U.S. Embassy in Brussels, specifically focusing on Belgian labor law and related compliance matters. The government has determined that Claeys & Engels is the only responsible source capable of delivering these critical legal services, which include guidance on Belgian Social Security, income tax, civil liability, and health/safety/environment issues. This procurement is being conducted under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 6.302-1, which allows for a non-competitive acquisition when only one source can meet agency requirements. The notice was published on December 2, 2024, with a response deadline of December 9, 2024.

Contractors interested in this opportunity may submit a capability statement demonstrating their ability to provide the required services, though the government retains sole discretion in evaluating responses. The BPA is structured as a one-year retainer valued at 28,000 euros, with individual purchase limits of 6,500 euros per transaction. While this is technically a sole source procurement, the government will consider any written submissions from responsible sources providing clear evidence of their capabilities. Eligible contractors must be able to offer comprehensive legal advisory services specific to Belgian labor law and related regulatory compliance. The primary objective is to secure specialized legal support that ensures the U.S. Embassy's adherence to both Belgian and U.S. regulations. Interested parties should note that this is not a competitive solicitation, and the government's determination to proceed with Claeys & Engels remains at its discretion.