| The idea of opening government markets up to foreign suppliers was rejected by States when first proposed in 1947. Changes to the world economy and macro-economic thinking since that time have made it more politically feasible for governments to liberalize their markets. Since Canada decided to partially open its procurement market, it has stayed the path of incremental liberalization. Liberalization, however, is being conducted in an increasingly complex policy environment as more interests and institutions become involved in the policy process.; This thesis uses an ideas, interests and institutions framework as an analytical aid in understanding the pace and scope of government procurement liberalization. The thesis also explores the impact of such liberalization on the federal procurement process. It finds that liberalization has had both positive and negative impacts on the procurement environment. Recommendations are given in an effort to minimize the negative impacts on the procurement process. |
