World Bank Debars Ecuadorian Consultancy Firm CONTEC

15-month debarment issued for fraudulent practices under a Guayaquil wastewater project

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The World Bank Group has announced the 15-month debarment of Ecuador-based civil engineering consultancy firm Consultoria Técnica Cia. Ltda. CONTEC (CONTEC) in connection with fraudulent practices under the Guayaquil Wastewater Management Project in Ecuador. CONTEC failed to disclose conflicts of interest when executing and bidding on project-financed consulting contracts, which were deemed fraudulent practices under the World Bank's Anti-Corruption Framework.

Why it matters

The debarment of CONTEC sends a strong signal that the World Bank will not tolerate fraudulent behavior by contractors and consultants working on its development projects. This case highlights the Bank's commitment to upholding integrity and accountability in the use of its financing, which is crucial for ensuring that projects achieve their intended development impact.

The details

According to the settlement agreement, CONTEC admitted culpability for the underlying sanctionable practices. As a condition for release from the 15-month debarment, the company has committed to developing and implementing integrity compliance measures and to continue cooperating with the World Bank Group Integrity Vice Presidency.

  • The World Bank Group announced the debarment on February 18, 2026.

The players

Consultoria Técnica Cia. Ltda. CONTEC

An Ecuador-based civil engineering consultancy firm that was debarred by the World Bank Group for 15 months due to fraudulent practices under the Guayaquil Wastewater Management Project.

World Bank Group

The international financial institution that announced the debarment of CONTEC for fraudulent practices related to a development project in Ecuador.

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What’s next

As a condition of release from the debarment, CONTEC has committed to developing and implementing integrity compliance measures that reflect the relevant principles set out in the World Bank Group Integrity Compliance Guidelines.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the World Bank's commitment to holding contractors and consultants accountable for fraudulent behavior on its development projects. The debarment of CONTEC sends a strong message that the Bank will not tolerate corruption, which is crucial for ensuring the effective use of its financing and the successful implementation of its projects.