Title: The role of mediating effects of ethical behaviours in the public procurement regulatory compliance model

Authors: Hoa D.X. Trieu; Phuong Van Nguyen; Tran N.B. Bui; Anh M. Do; Phuong Uyen Dinh

Addresses: Center for Public Administration, International University, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' Center for Public Administration, International University, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' Center for Public Administration, International University, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' School of Economics, Finance and Accounting, International University, Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' Office of Administration, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract: This study investigates the antecedents of procurement regulatory compliance and the mediating role of ethical behaviours in the relationship between enforcement, procurement knowledge, political resistance, perceived rule ambiguity, and procurement regulatory compliance. Utilising a quantitative analysis employing PLS-SEM, data from 171 public officials within public procurement bureaus in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, were examined. Findings demonstrate the insignificant impact of enforcement on ethical practices or procurement regulatory compliance. Political resistance, procurement knowledge, and perceived legislative ambiguity positively influence ethical behaviour, highlighting the mediating function of ethical behaviour. Despite the prevalent ambiguity in public procurement regulations within the economy, which does not directly impact compliance with procurement laws, ethical behaviour emerges as a pivotal intermediary factor to ameliorate this situation. This study suggests strategies to enhance compliance with procurement laws by clarifying regulations, bolstering civil servants' knowledge and cultivating a robust ethical stance within the realm of public procurement.

Keywords: public procurement; ethical behaviour; procurement compliance; enforcement; political resistance; rule ambiguity.

DOI: 10.1504/JIBED.2024.142495

Journal for International Business and Entrepreneurship Development, 2024 Vol.16 No.3, pp.376 - 398

Received: 19 Sep 2023
Accepted: 28 Mar 2024
Published online: 04 Nov 2024 *

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