Do small developing economies, or SDEs, need a specific competition policy to create competitive markets? Against the backdrop of globalization, protectionist policies that promote state ownership and heavy regulation of key industries are proving increasingly ineffective for driving growth. Countries around the world are instituting reforms to promote competition and business creation, yet the economic and political concentration of power, feeble judicial systems, and the scarcity of human and financial resources pose special challenges to SDEs.

Competition Policies in Emerging Economies features in-depth analysis of two strategic industries — telecommunications and banking — in several Central American nations, to shed light on the dynamics of the transition to deregulation and trade liberalization. Examining the lessons learned from these experiences and featuring discussion of political, legal, economic, financial, cultural, and organizational issues, the book provides unique perspectives on competition policy and economic development The book is primarily intended for decision-makers and policy analysts in international trade and economics, and will also appeal to researchers, academics, students, and professionals in institutional and development economics, international trade, and international affairs.