ETHICS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT
Definition of ethics.
There are two definitions of ethics as follows:
The moral principles governing or influencing conduct.
The branch of knowledge concerned with moral principles.
Ethics is the basis on which most of the procurement related principles, such as fairness,
integrity, and transparency, are based. Professional standards of ethical conduct, no matter
what the organization, contain typical characteristics, including commitments to:
Behave honourably in all aspects of work and professional activity.
Conduct oneself in such a manner as to maintain trust and confidence in the integrity
of the acquisition process.
Avoid “clever” practices intended to take undue advantage of others or the system.
Uphold the organization’s standards and policies and all relevant legislation.
Avoid conflicts of interest.
Some ethical concepts and principles that relate to the procurement process are:
loyalty and respect for rules and regulations
integrity
impartiality and fairness
transparency
confidentiality
avoidance of appearance of impropriety
due diligence
Importance of ethics in procurement and supply.
1. Purchasing staffs are the representatives of their organization in dealing with suppliers.
2. Sound ethical conduct in dealing with suppliers is essential to the creation of long-term
relationships and the establishment of partnerships.
3. Purchasing staff are probably more exposed to the temptation to act unethically than
most other employees
4. It is impossible to claim “profession” status for purchasing without reference to a
consideration of its ethical aspects.
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