World Bank Highlights Market Opportunities in Water and Sanitation for the Poor

The World Bank's Water and Sanitation Program (WSP) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have released a study showing "enormous market potential" in the sanitation business. Through the cases of Bangladesh, Indonesia, Peru, and Tanzania, it argues that these countries together represent a market for improved on-site sanitation services of around US$2.6 billion.

The study, titled 'Tapping the Markets: Opportunities for Domestic Investments in Water and Sanitation for the Poor,' was released during the World Water Week in Stockholm, Sweden, on 3 September 2013. It highlights three areas of focus to strengthen sanitation and water solutions, namely: cost-effective solutions at affordable prices; improvement of the relationship between the private and the sanitation/water sectors; and better investment environment.

Moreover, it also argues that better understanding of consumer preferences; policy reforms and capacity building of smaller firms are part of the solution for poor sanitation infrastructure in developing countries. In conclusion, it recommends focusing on the constrains for greater private sector engagement in these business opportunities.