REALWorld Law

Construction

Public procurement

Are public private partnerships (PPPs) common? Are they promoted or encouraged by the government?

Canada

Canada

Public-Private Partnerships (P3s or PPPs) are a performance and merit based approach to procuring public infrastructure whereby the private sector assumes the majority of the risk associated with a project and is only paid on performance. This ensures that the project is completed effectively and secures long-term maintenance.

P3s gained prominence in the 2000s, supported by the Canadian Council for Public–Private Partnerships. There are dedicated agencies in certain jurisdictions in Canada that manage major infrastructure projects, including P3s.