Trends and Patterns in Public-Private Partnership in Developing Countries: A Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

This article aims to analyse the trends, patterns, and development of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in developing economies over the years. This study employs bibliometric techniques using data extracted from the Scopus database. Five hundred nine (509) articles were carefully selected and examined using performance analysis, science mapping, and network visualization tools (VOSviewer) to identify trends, collaborative networks, and thematic clusters in PPP research. The research shows that interest in PPPs in developing countries has grown significantly since the early 2000s. Additionally, five (5) thematic clusters emerged: the dynamics of PPPs in developing nations; infrastructure and risk management; sustainable development; governance and critical success factors; and challenges related to water supply and corruption. The study indicates that PPPs are vital for closing infrastructure gaps, while effective risk management, governance, and capacity building are crucial. These insights are relevant to policymakers and practitioners, emphasising PPPs as a strategic approach for closing infrastructure gaps and enhancing service delivery in developing countries. As a result, balanced collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to tackling challenges in these areas. The study enhances the theoretical understanding of PPPs by identifying key success factors and governance frameworks that promote their effectiveness. It also offers a new bibliometric perspective on PPP research in developing nations, thereby addressing a significant gap in the current literature.