Enhancing the tendering and evaluation process for sustainable procurement in public sector of Bangladesh

Abstract

This study explores how sustainability can be integrated into the tendering and evaluation processes of Bangladesh’s public procurement system. Guided by six objectives, it assessed current practices, officials’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP), regulatory gaps in the Public Procurement Rules (2008), barriers to implementation, capacity needs and reforms to enhance evaluation. Using a pragmatic mixed-methods design, data were collected from 19 procurement officials through questionnaires. Quantitative analysis summarized awareness, training and practices, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Findings show that although officials hold positive attitudes toward Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) 84% support embedding it in PPR 2008 actual application is limited, with environmental criteria more common than social or economic. Key barriers include lack of training, unclear guidelines, budget constraints and supplier capacity. The study recommends updating PPR 2008, upgrading the e-GP system, capacity-building for officials, supplier development and pilot projects in high-impact sectors.