Competition Policy and MERCOSUR Book

This paper provides both an assessment of the legislative/ institutional and enforcement effectiveness of the competition framework of the four MERCOSUR (the " Common Market of the Southern Cone " ) countries--Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. It also draws on as appropriate analogies from other regional integration efforts such as the European Union. This includes the important interface issues between competition policies and regulated industries. The paper also provides additional assessments of the related policy areas (consumer protection, trade, foreign investment regulation, intellectual property and bankruptcy) that have an impact on competition policy. Finally, the report analyzes the desirability and scope for harmonization/convergence of competition policies within the MERCOSUR context, as well as the role of MERCOSUR institutions, both in shaping competition policy and in dispute resolution.