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Description

Twenty-first century globalization has gone well beyond imports crossing borders. However, usually engendering fears of a flood of imports overwhelming local firms and causing job losses—used with effect in the past to scare policy makers and to whip up local resistance— certain political constituencies at the national or local level distort opportunities and benefits that have arisen as governments and technologies have dissolved many impediments to cross-border commerce.

The unfortunate practical reality for government decision makers, both in developed and developing economies, is that vested interests seek to shape policy outcomes—to the detriment of the rest of society. Increased access to state contracts is no exception. Noble ends and means are hijacked by vested interests opposed to reform—smart policy makers need to keep this in mind.

The purpose of this brochure is to highlight the broader menu of reform options for government policy makers—particularly those responsible for trade growth and more effective public procurement governance—that has arisen as the world economy has become more integrated and regionalized.

Contents

• The Need for More Competitive Procurement
• Trade Liberalization Can Improve National Procurement Performance
• Industrial Policy Preferences are not Inconsistent with Liberalized Trade and Procurement Regimes
• Using Regional Trade Agreements to Enhance National Procurement Governance
• Options for Policy Makers