In a world marked by unprecedented challenges and unforeseen disruptions, the resilience and sustainability of public sector supply chains have never been more crucial. Authored by Valentina Bianchini, SAPIENS research fellow in Management at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, this policy brief rethinks how to approach procurement practices to future-proofing public sector supply chains.

The brief underscores the global dimension of public sector supply chains, accentuated by external shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, despite the interconnected and diffused nature of these chains, procurement practices often exhibit a ‘home bias’. Bianchini advocates for a holistic approach, one that transcends borders to address sustainability and resilience on a global scale.

The brief encourages public buyers to adopt a risk and commitment-based approaches, steering away from mere compliance. By investing in supply chain risk-management skills and early-stage knowledge acquisition, they can mitigate vulnerabilities and bolster resilience from the outset. Moreover, the author emphasizes the need for strategic engagement, advocating for a shift from reactive to proactive procurement practices.

The brief also sheds light on the global dimension of public sector supply chains, urging policymakers to transcend borders in pursuit of sustainability and resilience. Finally, it lays out key recommendations and practical steps that public buyers across countries can use to prepare public sector supply chains for the sustainability and resilience challenges ahead.

By embracing strategic, proactive approaches, public sector entities can forge resilient supply chains that not only weather storms but also uphold the principles of sustainability.