Learn how the IDB collaborates with other Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to align procurement practices and strengthen development impact.
Public procurement represents nearly 15% of global GDP and holds significant potential to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while aligning with the long-term development strategies of our client countries. In recognition of this, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) joined eleven other Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) in issuing a joint statement reaffirming our shared commitment to integrating sustainable procurement practices into development operations.
The MDBs have also pledged to support partner countries in undertaking national-level reforms to embed sustainability into domestic procurement systems.
Sustainable public procurement involves the integration of economic, social, environmental, and institutional considerations throughout the procurement process. It drives transformative change by promoting climate action, environmental performance, diversity, gender equality, and workers’ rights. To operationalize this commitment, we have established a dedicated working group focused on:
- Building awareness, outreach, and partnerships
- Adopting a harmonized approach
- Developing training materials, resources, and tools
- Monitoring and communicating results and impact
This note presents key findings of a comparative analysis of the procurement policy frameworks of ten Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs). It benchmarks the frameworks of the African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Council of Europe Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, European Investment Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, New Development Bank, and the World Bank across eleven analytical dimensions.
The Heads of Procurement of the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) have collaboratively developed a comprehensive and user-friendly tool for assessing electronic government procurement (e-GP) systems of partner countries. This tool is specifically designed for considering the procurement of Goods, Works, or Services contracts, financed by MDBs, through e-GP systems. By introducing a structured and standardized approach, it aims to determine whether e-GP systems meet the minimum requirements set forth by MDBs for its effective use.
This assessment tool conducts a thorough review of procurement policies, procedures, and practices to ensure compliance. It enables MDBs to evaluate whether an e-GP system fulfills all necessary criteria or if additional requirements and restrictions are warranted. For broader reform initiatives, this tool is ideally complemented by the MAPS e-GP supplementary module.
The effective utilization of e-GP systems is critical for enhancing transparency, credibility, and efficiency of the procurement process but also elevates the procurement function to a strategic level. By consolidating procurement-related data and offering comprehensive insights, e-GP systems empower decision-makers in project preparation and delivery.
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