The Sorocaba-São Paulo intercity train project will include a pre-selection phase for companies before the public auction, involving competitive dialogue as part of the bidding process.
The intercity train project connecting São Paulo and Sorocaba is set to incorporate an additional pre-selection stage for companies prior to the auction. This new process, termed competitive dialogue, is outlined in Brazil's 2021 Law on Public Procurement and Administrative Contracts, although it has not been frequently applied in the country. The São Paulo government plans to release an announcement by the end of this semester to select interested companies for the project concession, according to Augusto Almudin, the director of corporate affairs at Companhia Paulista de Parcerias (CPP).
Selected companies will engage in a competitive dialogue that is expected to take place throughout 2027, lasting approximately six to eight months. This phase allows for individualized and confidential discussions, which are aimed at refining proposals and ensuring that potential grievances are addressed before the actual bidding begins. Notably, the SPI (Secretariat for Partnerships and Investment) recently concluded a public consultation on this initiative, garnering over 230 contributions that will likely inform the final process.
The government hopes that implementing competitive dialogue for the TIC Eixo Oeste project will enhance the bidding process, leading to better proposals and ultimately improving the infrastructure linking São Paulo and Sorocaba. This approach reflects a growing trend in public procurement towards more interactive and participatory methods, which could set a precedent for future projects in Brazil and help to stimulate economic development through improved transportation options.
