Competition Law and Policy in the Regional Context: European Union Experiences for the Pacific Alliance

Abstract

This chapter aims to identify the possible challenges that the Pacific Alliance (PA) will have to face with respect to competition policies. The competition policy model of the European Union (EU), in which a single market is consolidated within a regional trade agreement, is analysed from the perspective of regional integration theory. Among the conclusions of this chapter, it is noteworthy that the PA is not only a trade integration effort, but also addresses social and political objectives. However, the Alliance is in the initial stages of developing its institutional structure and greater progress is expected that will allow it to cope with diverse regional integration issues, including in regard to competition policy. The member countries will need to adjust their socio-political and legal rules and provisions, taking account of the developmental stages of their economies.