Harmonization of Competition Policies among Mercosur Countries

Abstract

This paper analyzes the institutional innovations that are expected from the recent MERCOSUR protocol on competition policy. At the national level, the protocol constitutes a new driving force toward the conclusion of the ongoing economic reforms in the member countries. At the regional level, it provides an additional instrument for controlling the imbalances of the integration process. However, since competition policy is a new subject in the region, the attainment of these potentialities will imply a long-term cooperation effort among MERCOSUR governments. The results of this experience will affect the debate about antitrust issues in other forums such as the FTAA and the WTO.

Regional Harmonization of Competition Law and Policy: An ASEAN Approach

“…93 It envisages a positive comity clause and the strengthening of technical co-operation between the members of the bloc. 94 The goals of competition policy stated in the Fortaleza Protocol are similar to those of the TFEU, 95 i.e. to abolish the obstacles hindering the enlargement of the regional market.…”