Public-Private Partnership Databases: Analytical Description and Comparative Analysis of National and International Databases

Abstract

Having accurate and detailed information on PPP projects is essential for good management of PPP risks and related contingent liabilities. This document presents an analytical description and comparative analysis of main existing international and national databases on PPPs for a sample of seven countries: four LAC countries (Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay) and three leading countries regarding the development of PPP projects from outside the region (Australia, South Africa, and UK). Although existing international databases on PPPs provide relevant information for research purposes and national databases on PPPs have significantly contributed to improving transparency regarding PPPs in several countries in the region, it is concluded that there is still a long road ahead with respect to improving available information on PPP projects in LAC. In particular, there is great heterogeneity among countries regarding available information on PPP projects and international databases on PPPs provide incomplete information. Enhancing and standardizing available information on PPPs among countries would facilitate the carrying out of cross-country comparisons, which is necessary for the generation of technical knowledge and the development of good practices regarding PPP risk management.