Operation Car Wash: Uncovering Corruption Pathways in the Brazilian Construction Industry Through Bid Law Blind Spots

We carried out this study in the construction industry, one of the sectors that contributes significantly to the economic growth of most countries and maintains a strong relationship with the government in infrastructure projects, making it susceptible to corruption. Our objective was to identify the characteristics of the Brazilian Public Administration's bidding processes for awarding contracts for works that may facilitate corrupt practices. Through a multiple case study, we researched investigations and audits of public works under Operation Car Wash to identify the main mechanisms used to circumvent the law. The results were obtained using an iterative explanation construction technique. With results that contribute to the development of public policies and anti-corruption and project management literature, we conclude that corruption will persist until adequate measures are implemented to combat overpricing and other underlying causes.