Letter of Authorization for Bahrain

Authorization Letters for Bahraini Tenders, Regulators and Customs

A letter of authorization is a short, targeted document: a U.S. company confirms that a named Bahraini company or person may do a specific thing on its behalf, such as bid in a tender with its products, register its products with a regulator, or clear its goods through customs. It is narrower than a power of attorney and quicker to prepare, which is why Bahraini procurement bodies and regulators ask for it so often.

Manufacturer’s authorization for tenders

Government entities, hospitals, utilities and large companies in Bahrain often require bidders who are not the manufacturer to submit a manufacturer’s authorization. It confirms that the bidder is authorized to offer the manufacturer’s products and that the manufacturer will support them with warranty and spare parts. Tender rules frequently ask for the letter to reference the tender number and the products offered, to be addressed to the tendering entity, and to be authenticated. A generic letter is a common reason for a bid to be disqualified.

Product registration with Bahraini regulators

Medicines and medical devices in Bahrain are regulated by the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA). Foreign manufacturers generally act through a local agent or authorized representative, and the registration file usually includes a letter from the manufacturer authorizing that agent to register and market the products. Food, cosmetic and other regulated products follow similar patterns with their own authorities. Check the regulator’s current template, because many specify the wording they expect.

Customs, logistics and day-to-day matters

Letters of authorization also let a Bahraini clearing agent act for an importer, allow a local representative to collect documents or certificates, or authorize a partner to use the company’s trademarks in marketing. For broader or longer-term authority, such as signing contracts, opening accounts or acting in court, a power of attorney for Bahrain is usually the better document.

Signature, notary and apostille

The letter is printed on company letterhead and signed by an authorized officer before a U.S. notary. The Secretary of State of the notary’s state then adds the apostille, which Bahrain has accepted since December 31, 2013 without any embassy step. If the Bahraini entity asks who can sign for the company, attach a board resolution or certificate of incumbency, also apostilled.

Dates and scope

State the authorized party’s full legal name and commercial registration number, exactly what is authorized, and the period of validity. Tender letters often must remain valid for the full bid validity period. Registration letters should cover the registration and renewal cycle. When the authorization changes, issue a new letter rather than amending the old one by hand.