Procurement Practices Research Articles

Green Procurement Nexus Performance of Manufacturing Firms: Empirical Reflections

Purpose: This literature-based study assessed green procurement practices as a strategic tool for protecting the environment in favour of the performance of manufacturing firms.
 Design/Methodology/Approach: A systematic qualitative scrutiny aided by nomothetic content analysis from the published papers centred on green procurement as a global strategic approach to protecting the environment was employed.
 Findings: Green procurement practices are documented as useful for the performance of firms. Moreover, little has been pronounced on relevant practices in Tanzania. Manufacturing firms are charged for environmental compliance and hence call for a related conceptual study.
 Research Limitation/Implication: The study limited itself to the literature alone out of no cause-effect relationship testing of green procurement practices against performance hence calling for the quantitative study guided by hypothesis testing. 
 Practical Implications: The practical implications of the green procurement nexus on the performance of manufacturing firms are significant and can influence various aspects of a company's operations, sustainability efforts, and overall success.
 Social Implications: The study contributes to the Environmental Social Governance (ESG) agenda by highlighting the green procurement practices to be taken on board for the social wellbeing of the delivery of materials to manufacturing firms in consistency with the governance mechanisms.
 Originality/Value: Suggestion: The novelty of the study on the green procurement nexus and manufacturing firm performance lies in its empirical, multidimensional, and forward-looking approach to understanding how sustainable procurement practices can impact various facets of a manufacturing firm's operations and long-term sustainability. It contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection of sustainability and business performance.

Evolution of Malaysia’s Plans Policies, Initiativesand Strategies on Green Procurement Implementation: A Review

Malaysia’s plans have evolved over the years, highlighting several goals to sustain economic growth and development in all constituent states of Malaysia. The five-year development plan comprises a comprehensive and integrated plan, policies, and strategies to lead the government in achieving the desired economic and socioeconomic goals. The first Malaysia plan was introduced in 1966-1970, and the development of Malaysia’splans has continued since then. In the Tenth Malaysia Plan, the government emphasised sustainable management, responding to global climate change, and focusing on strategies and mitigation adaptation to ensure sustainable growth. Keeping environmental sustainability is a global commitment, especially in the construction industry, which contributes the most to environmental issues. Green procurement has been introduced to the construction industry as a way forward and a strategy towardssustainability. The primary objective of this paper is to analyse the evolution of the five-year development plans policies, initiatives, and strategies that have been proposed by the government on green procurement practices in Malaysia’splans. The study employs integrative literature reviewto analyse the contents and features of Malaysia’splans and its related government policy documents on green procurement. The findings of this study will assist stakeholders in better understanding the significance of green policies, initiatives, and strategies on green procurement implementation in Malaysia’s plans towards achieving inclusive, sustainable development in the construction industry.

Reimagining the United States organ procurement and transplant network.

The United States system of solid organ transplantation is overseen by the Organ Procurement Transplantation Network (OPTN). Recent announcements from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) indicate their clear intention to reform the system. We suggest that the original intention of the National Organ Transplant Act (NOTA) to require one entity to oversee transplantation is critical to integrate policy with the complex realities of organ procurement and transplantation practice. We suggest that a contemporary business platform model best captures the appropriate structure for coordinating organ transplantation, as the seamless exchange of organs between related groups is the essential function to facilitate. A business platform framework that includes public and private, academic and industry partners can best accomplish the important goal of equitable and efficient organ transplantation.

Sustainable Practices and Company Performance in Restaurant Business at PT XYZ: The Moderating Role Of Supply Chain Visibility

The study was conducted to see the effect of sustainable practices and company performance on the restaurant business at PT XYZ: the moderating role of supply chain visibility. The population of this study is managerial level employees who work in PT XYZ restaurants located in Jabodetabek. Furthermore, the sample approach used is non-probability sampling, with the sampling strategy used in this study is purposive sampling. In this study, the minimum sample size used was 102 respondents. Then the method used in this research is the Partial Least Square (PLS) approach in Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results showed that sustainable procurement practices have a positive and significant effect on company performance. Then sustainable manufacturing practices have a positive and significant effect on company performance. Furthermore, supply chain visibility cannot moderate sustainable procurement and sustainable manufacturing on company performance in the restaurant business.

Impact of universal free school meals on health and equity: international policy scoping review

Abstract Issue Every child should have access to healthy foods, engagement with peers, and thrive in educational environments. Universal free school meal policies can address health inequalities and the wider determinants of health. Such policies can impact economic development, community well-being, gender equity, and environmental sustainability. Description The World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Investment for Health and Well-being undertook an international scoping policy review to identify examples of universal free school meals policy and practice. Resources, including government, public health, and non-governmental organisational websites, were reviewed. Data were extracted on delivery models and outcomes including health, equity, sustainability, and economic well-being. Best practices were summarised. The findings were shared with key Government stakeholders to provide high level overview of the impact of school food programmes and procurement practices on health and wellbeing, wider determinants and social outcomes to inform local policy and practice decisions. Results The report provides evidence on the impacts of universal free school meal programmes as well as promising practices to improve health, equity and well-being. Outcomes explored within the report include inter alia: health and well-being (nutrition, physical health), wider determinants (inequities, educational attainment, poverty, food insecurity) and social outcomes (stigma, social skills, uptake of school food programmes). Taking a global perspective, the report summarises international evidence to support inclusive, sustainable, and equitable solutions, such as improving economic well-being, promoting sustainable procurement practices, and maximising social return on investment. Lessons Mobilising and sharing international evidence and best practice supports equitable, long-term action to improve the health and well-being of children, local economies, and the climate. Key messages • International learning provides key insights to support innovative, equitable and effective policies. • Sustainable policies should address health and social outcomes, and support children and the environment.

Time for change: compliance with RCS green theatre checklist-facilitators and barriers on the journey to net zero.

Climate change is an era-defining health concern, with healthcare related emissions paradoxically compounding negative impacts. The NHS produces 5% of the UK's carbon footprint, with operating theatres a recognised carbon hotspot. NHS England aims to become Net Zero by 2045. Consequently, UK Royal Colleges of Surgery have published guidance to foster an evidence-based sustainable transformation in surgical practice. A single-centre quality improvement project was undertaken, aiming to provide an overview of sustainable practice locally. The Intercollegiate "Green Theatre Checklist" was taken as an audit standard, focusing on "preparing for surgery" and "intraoperative equipment" subsections. Any general surgical procedure was eligible for inclusion. Usage of reusable textiles, non-sterile gloves, catheters, antibiotics, alcohol vs. water-based scrub techniques, skin sterilisation choices, and skin closure materials were recorded. Baseline data collection occurred over a 3 week period, followed by dissemination of results locally via clinical governance meetings and poster displays. A re-audit of practice was conducted using the same methodology and duration. Datasets 1 (n = 23) and 2 (n = 23) included open (n = 22), laparoscopic (n = 24), elective (n = 22) and non-elective (n = 24) cases. Good practice was demonstrated in reusable textiles (trolley covers 96%, 78%, drapes 100%, 92%) however procurement issues reduced otherwise good reusable gown use in Dataset 2 in (90%, 46%). No unnecessary catheter use was identified, and loose skin preparations were used unanimously. Uptake of alcohol-based scrubbing techniques was low (15%, 17%) and unnecessary non-sterile glove use was observed in >30% of procedures. All laparoscopic ports and scissors were single use. Carbon footprints were 128.27 kgCO2e and 117.71 kgCO2e in datasets 1 and 2 respectively. This project evidences good practice alongside future local focus areas for improved sustainability. Adoption of hybrid laparoscopic instruments, avoiding unnecessary equipment opening, and standardising reusable materials could reduce carbon and environmental impact considerably. Successful implementation requires considered procurement practices, improved awareness and education, clear leadership, and a sustained cultural shift within the healthcare community. Collaboration among professional institutions and access to supporting evidence is crucial in driving engagement and empowering clinicians to make locally relevant changes a reality.

Challenges and opportunities for continued access to effective antibiotics - what role for the EU?

Abstract Large pharmaceutical companies have withdrawn from antibiotic R&D because of the high risk of failure and because antibiotics are less profitable than other areas; small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which now drive antibiotic R&D, face difficulty securing funding for preclinical and early clinical trials, and risk significant economic losses when launching new antibiotics. To reinvigorate the antibiotic pipeline, a holistic package of aligned incentives is required, which takes into account public health factors, improves return of investment while supporting SMEs, and considers operational feasibility including potential political, regulatory, legislative, industry and financial hurdles. This presentation will highlight the main options in this area. Improving access to effective antibiotics requires both short- and longer-term measures. Reducing regulatory administrative hurdles, engaging in good procurement practice, increasing joint purchasing efforts, and considering payment models that de-link revenue from sales can keep older (but effective) antibiotics on the market by ensuring their economic viability. Strengthening the mapping of production capacities and product availability can improve transparency and identify options for action, while stockpiling and strengthening manufacturing capacities within and outside of the EU can boost the supply chain itself. Concrete measures and their feasibility will be briefly presented. The EU has a major role to play by supporting antibiotic R&D and engaging with other international efforts to promote optimal deployment of incentives, by ensuring that the lack of access to appropriate and effective antibiotics is recognized as a threat to global health security, and by building on its relationships with international institutions to act as a facilitator in the global space towards ensuring synergies among existing structures, communicating the cost of inaction, and supporting national and regional initiatives. Speakers/Panelists Danilo Lo Fo Wong Division of Country Health Programmes, WHO/Europe, Copenhagen, Denmark Malin Grape Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, Stockholm, Sweden Lieven De Raedt Federal Public Service Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment, Brussels, Belgium

Role of Procurement Internal Audit on Compliant Procurement Practices in Tanzania: A case of Iringa Rufiji Basin

Purpose of this study was to assess to role of Procurement Internal Audit on Compliance towards procurement practices by complying with PPRA in order to bring upon effectiveness and efficiently in procurement practices.

Harnessing the value of procurement knowledge and practices for firm performance: A resource orchestration perspective

AbstractAlthough the role of procurement knowledge and practices in securing a competitive advantage for firms cannot be over‐emphasised, the literature lacks empirical evidence in this regard. Accordingly, this study examines the effects of procurement knowledge and practices on firm performance as well as how procurement practices mediate the nexus between procurement knowledge and firm performance. Partial least squares structural equation modelling results based on survey data of 150 procurement and supply chain professionals suggest that procurement planning, supplier partnership, contract management and compliance increase firm performance. Also, a positive relationship was established between procurement knowledge and all procurement practices investigated. Furthermore, apart from procurement planning, the remaining procurement practices fully mediated the effect of procurement knowledge on firm performance. Findings provide relevant implications for theory and practice.

Environmental sustainability and food provision in the early childhood and education setting.

To describe environmentally sustainable (ES) and healthy food provision practices in childcare services in Victoria, Australia. Cross-sectional study. Childcare services providing food onsite. Staff completed an online survey that explored ES food provision practices including purchasing seasonal/local food, food waste awareness/management, and food cost/child/d. A purposively sampled subgroup conducted weighed audits to determine compliance with guidelines and total waste, serving waste (prepared, not served) and plate waste. Survey results found 8 % of services (n 129) had previously conducted food waste audits. Service audits (n 12) found 27 % total food waste (range: 9 % - 64 %). Statistically significant differences in plate waste were found between services who had previously conducted food waste audits (7 %) and those who had not (17 %) (P = 0·04). The most common ES practice was 'providing seasonal food'; the least common was 'maintaining a compost system' and 'less packaged foods'. Most services (95 %) purchased foods from supermarkets with 23 % purchasing from farmers' markets. This was statistically lower for regional/rural services (8 %), compared to metropolitan services (27 %) (P = 0·04). Twenty-seven per cent of services spent AUD2·50 or less per child per day on food. Only one audited service provided a menu compliant with childcare food provision guidelines. Childcare settings procure and provide large volumes of food; however, food waste awareness appears limited, and environmentally sustainable food procurement practices may be less affordable and difficult to achieve. Understanding the impact of food waste awareness on food waste practices and food costs across time merits further research.

Modelling the Environmental and Economic Life Cycle Performance of Maximizing Asphalt Recycling on Road Pavement Surfaces in Europe

The road pavement industry, worldwide, has often shown reluctance in quickly implementing innovative practices; however, in the case of raw material consumption, a cultural change is necessary and, in this sense, sustainability assessment could play a major role. Along these lines, this research study aims to provide evidence to all the involved stakeholders (material producers, pavement contractors, and road authorities) of how life cycle-based techniques can be crucial in evaluating whether the adoption of asphalt mixtures with high contents of reclaimed asphalt (RA) for wearing courses is actually a sustainable practice for major European roads. An evaluation framework composed of a life cycle assessment, to calculate the carbon footprint of both pavement materials and pavement activities, and a life cycle cost assessment, performed to determine the overall economic burden of the related road pavement surface courses and maintenance strategies over a sixty-year analysis period, is presented and applied to selected case studies. These were developed together with three major European national road authorities and include scenarios involving the construction of road surfaces with asphalt mixtures containing up to 90% RA. Results have shown that whenever high-content RA mixes do not under-perform against conventional mixtures, up to 50% CO2eq savings can be registered and up to 60% economic cost reductions can be reported. The durability of road pavement layers remains a key parameter for any road pavement sustainability assessment exercises; therefore, in order to adapt the obtained results to other contexts, researchers should always consider conducting a sensitivity analysis of the reference service life and/or road authorities should somehow request road pavement durability as a pre-requisite within procurement practices.

Benefits of green procurement: perspectives from the Malaysian construction industry

Environmental degradation is an alarming threat to human security and green procurement has been regarded as one of the remedial measures to alleviate the environmental issues. Considering that the green procurement is a relatively new concept in the Malaysian construction industry, this study investigated the green procurement in construction projects by exploring its benefits towards the environment, economic and social aspects. Drawing on an empirical survey in Malaysia, the significant benefits of green procurement applications are prioritised. A total of 150 surveys were collected among developers, consultants, contractors and suppliers and analysed using SPSS version 23.0 statistical software. The findings suggested that the primary benefits of adopting green procurement practices are reduce pollution levels, improve community health and quality of life, conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gases and provide healthier working environment. This paper provides the basis for construction procurement delivery to be on a sustainable path.

The scientometric analysis and visualization of sustainable procurement

Sustainable procurement has emerged as a crucial strategy to address environmental and social challenges while promoting responsible sourcing and procurement practices. This research presents a comprehensive scientometric analysis and visualization of 1044 publications from 1997 to July 2023 through a co-author, co-word, and co-citation analysis on sustainable procurement from the Scopus core collection database using VOSviewer and Gephi software. Prominent research areas include green procurement, sustainable procurement, sustainability, procurement, and supply chain. Leading institutions are the University of Southern Denmark, European Business School (EBS) University, Germany and the University of Louvain, Belgium, with the United Kingdom, United States, and China as citation leaders. The Top sustainable procurement outlets are the Journal of Cleaner Production, the International Journal of Production Economics, the Journal of Business Ethics, Sustainability, and Supply Chain Management. By providing a holistic overview of the sustainable procurement research landscape, this study contributes to evidence-based decision-making and fosters a collaborative approach towards achieving a more sustainable and socially responsible world essential for facilitating sustainability efforts. The findings serve as a foundation for future research and policy development, facilitating knowledge exchange and driving positive change in procurement practices.

Efficiency of metaverse on the improvement of the green procurement policy of semiconductor supply chain – based on behaviour perspective

This study is to investigate and elucidate the potential efficiencies generated when implementing the metaverse and how these efficiencies influence supplier behaviour, encouraging continued cooperation with green procurement policies. The principles of the natural-resource-based view (NRBV) and sociotechnical system theory (SST) uses to construct a conceptual model and test it using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with data collected from 251 Chinese semiconductor manufacturers. The results suggest that the metaverse can stimulate collective behaviour and foster a bandwagon effect among suppliers. This, in turn, guides suppliers to actively engage with green procurement practices, adhere to green purchasing standards, and enhance their operations. Additionally, it facilitates the development of resilience in high pollution operations, ultimately leading to improved green performance. Considering these findings, semiconductor manufacturers, in their role as policy makers, may find greater support for the implementation of the metaverse to address the deficiencies in green procurement policies.

Effects of Procurement Strategies on Procurement Performance of Sugar Industry in Pakistan

This investigation aims to analyze the effect of procurement planning, staff competency, and green purchasing on procurement performance in the sugar industry of Pakistan. Procurement planning, staff competency, and green purchasing are independent variables and procurement performance is the dependent variable. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. Primary data was collected using questionnaires targeting employees of sugar industries in Pakistan. The quantitative research method was used to collect data. The study findings revealed that procurement planning had a positive and significant impact on the procurement performance whereas staff competence and green purchasing also had a strong positive and significant impact on the procurement performance of sugar manufacturing firms in Pakistan studied. The study recommends that all sugar manufacturing firms in Pakistan must implement efficient procurement practices to become more efficient in their operations. Particularly the study recommends that the organizations should enhance their planning and also ensure that procurement plans are adhered to, staff employed in the procurement department should be competent, and that there should be training opportunities for the staff.

Development of Conceptual Sustainable Project Planning Model (SPPM) for Indian Roads

Objective: This research aims to develop the conceptual sustainable project planning model for Indian roads using Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) applicable to roads, Project Definition Rating Index (PDRI), Multi-Unit Selective Inventory Control- 3- Dimensional (MUSIC-3D) Approach, Project Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), Three Point Cost Estimation & Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) for achieving Sustainability in Indian Roads.
 
 Theorotical Framework: The study is based on international scientific studies, articles, and publications. Additionally, actual materials relevant to the study subject were utilized for a more thorough and objective presentation of the issue at hand.
 
 Method: For development of Conceptual Sustainable Project Planning Model (SPPM) various research tools such as PDRI, MUSIC-3D, PERT & 3- Point Costing as well as LCCA were used incorporation of Sustainable Development Goals applicable to roads.
 
 Results & Conclusion: The development of a sustainable project planning model (SPPM) using tools like the Construction Industry Institute's Project Definition Rating Index (PDRI), the Multi Unit Selective Inventory Control- 3-Dimensional (MUSIC-3D) analysis, the Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) by IS 13147 (Part-2):1984, PERT, and Three Point Cost Estimation using MSP can help Indian roads become more sustainable.
 
 Originality/ Value: The sustainable project planning model can benefit the road infrastructure in several ways. By incorporating sustainable design principles, environmental assessment, and social impact assessment, the model ensures that construction projects are environmentally responsible and socially inclusive. This helps road infrastructure to minimize its negative impact on the environment and society. The model also emphasizes the importance of resource efficiency and waste reduction. By efficiently managing project resources, including materials, the model promotes sustainable procurement practices and minimizes harmful impacts on environment. This can lead to cost savings for the construction industry by reducing waste and optimizing resource utilization.

Stakeholder expectations, inter-organizational coordination and procurement practices among humanitarian organizations

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the interconnectedness between stakeholder expectations (SE), inter-organizational coordination (IOC) and procurement practices within humanitarian organizations (HOs) based in Uganda.Design/methodology/approachEmploying a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were gathered from 43 HOs and analyzed using SmartPLS 4.0.8.3. Variance-based structural equation models (VB-SEMs) were employed to examine both direct and indirect effects.FindingsThe findings show a significantly positive relationship between SE, IOC and procurement practices. Additionally, the mediating role of IOC in the relationship between SE and procurement practices is evident.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study offers insights into procurement practices in HOs, the use of a quantitative approach might limit capturing dynamic changes over time. Future research could benefit from a nuanced approach involving interviews and longitudinal studies to uncover incremental changes.Practical implicationsDuring relief management, HOs need to understand their SE through information sharing and capacity building. This understanding can aid in selecting procurement practices that align with SE and ensure the delivery of relief.Originality/valueLeveraging stakeholder theory, this research contributes to the understanding of how SE and IOC influence the adoption of procurement practices in HOs during relief delivery.

The Effect of e-Procurement Technology on Performance of Apparel Industry in Sri Lanka: The Mediating Role of Procurement Practices

The apparel industry in Sri Lanka is one of the vital sectors in the country’s economyhaving recorded substantial development over the past. The entire procurementprocess of the industry, from the purchase of raw materials through to the delivery ofthe finished product, is crucial to supply chain management and decision-making.Use of electronic procurement technology (EPT), procurement practices, andprocurement performance are the three key factors that affect this process. Thisresearch aims to explore the relationship among EPT usage, procurement practicesand procurement performance of the apparel sector in Sri Lanka. More specificallythe study investigates the mediating effect of procurement practices on therelationship between EPT and procurement performance. Data were collectedthrough a structured online questionnaire from randomly selected 40 supply chainand procurement management staff of three leading apparel companies in Sri Lanka.Collected data were analyzed by using SPSS statistical software with descriptive andinferential statics. The results of the analysis provide evidence for statisticallysignificant positive effects of EPT and procurement practices on procurementperformance. Moreover, the study found a statistically significant mediation effect ofprocurement practices on the relationship between the usage of EPT and procurementperformance. Thus, this study contributes to the literature by providing new insightinto the importance of investments in new technology for effective procurementprocesses.Keywords: e-Procurement, Performance, Apparel industry, Sri Lanka

The potential of new models of construction procurement to counter cost overruns in construction projects: an exploratory study from a contractors’ perspective

PurposeCost overrun is a significant issue in construction, an undesirable feature the industry has long been associated with. Poor procurement practices are often blamed for subsequent cost overruns in construction, especially with conventional procurement methods leading to outrageous cost overruns. The purpose of this study is to review the features of the new models of construction procurement (NMCP) and assess their potential to reduce cost overruns in construction projects.Design/methodology/approachA literature review was conducted to identify the issues of procurement leading to cost escalations. Primary data were obtained through exploratory, semi-structured interviews using a case study approach.FindingsClients’ lack of knowledge was highlighted as a key issue in procurement that interlinks with many factors causing cost escalation. The findings suggest that the features contained within the NMCP, such as early contractor involvement and collaboration throughout the project team, have the potential to make a positive contribution to addressing cost escalation in construction.Research limitations/implicationsThe primary research was undertaken as an exploratory study and presents the contractor's perspective. Further research is therefore suggested, with multiple organisations representing all key stakeholders in a construction project, including clients, consultants, sub-contractors and suppliers.Practical implicationsThe study recommends awareness of the NMCP be raised throughout the industry, and simplified information must be made available to help widen uptake of these contemporary procurement methods.Originality/valueAddressing the dearth of research concerning the use of NMCP within the industry, this study makes a niche contribution to the body of knowledge on construction cost management by illustrating the potential offered by these new procurement methods for addressing cost escalation. For an industry where collaboration is accepted with reservations, this case study demonstrates how novel collaborative strategies such as open book costing, project bank accounts and shared pain and gain mechanisms can be implemented as part of the procurement strategy and how such strategies can contribute towards minimising the cost escalation inherent in construction projects.

World Bank procurement approaches: Overcoming supply chain challenges in the Pacific

This paper explores the nexus of supply chain management (SCM) challenges and explains both the impact of recent global trends and the long-standing susceptibilities in Pacific Island Countries (PICs). The paper also discusses how these supply chain challenges exacerbate difficulties in procuring infrastructure investment projects. Finally, the paper summarises the practical solutions the Bank is pursuing through its procurement practices as an entry point for addressing supply chain management constraints. Supply chain disruptions had global repercussions in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and still present potential risks given on-going economic and geopolitical uncertainties. These challenges have come on top of long-standing supply chain difficulties in logistically complicated remote markets such as the Pacific Islands. Businesses operating in that environment contend with high logistics costs and transport expenses, which can be further exacerbated by volatile fuel prices. For contractors undertaking transportation works, there are added risks such as volatility in commodity markets for raw materials such as steel. Mobilisation costs to the Pacific Islands are also high, especially when contractors must transport equipment, goods, and potentially labour from abroad. This is on top of the significant risk of adverse weather events, with works being highly susceptible to flooding and extreme weather due to their location near coastlines. This high risk is difficult to insure, and bidders often struggle to obtain adequate insurance for their projects. Ultimately, the combination of supply chain issues, localised risks and small contract values have contributed to price escalation and weak market response to works procurements in Pacific Island Countries (PICs). The weak market response also reflects a tightening supplier market, as construction companies focus on more attractive projects within the large pipeline of domestic infrastructure projects in countries such as Australia and New Zealand. The World Bank and borrowers (client countries) are addressing this challenge through procurement approaches intended to make projects more attractive to bidders. Outreach on the consolidated pipeline of infrastructure projects in PICs highlights the opportunity for repeat business; a sequence of projects in the same location helps offset high mobilisation costs. Similarly, the Bank informs bidders of opportunities for local subcontracting or joint ventures, which can offset mobilisation costs and facilitate access to local labour. Tenders can also make greater use of rated criteria, which place emphasis on past performance, quality and sustainability factors. Finally, greater use of phased approaches and provisional sums can help to spread price risk more effectively over long duration contracts where clear information on future costs is not available. In the context of global uncertainty, this can offset price risk for outyear items.