Scholarlink

<p>This paper examines how competition laws and regulations affect manufacturing firms’ productivity in 14 Latin American countries, addressing a notable research gap. Using firm-level panel data from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys and legal indicators from the Comparative Competition Law initiative, the study explores the impact of competition law on total factor productivity (TFP), focusing on mediators such as firm size, proximity to the technological frontier, and institutional context. Employing robust empirical methods, the analysis uncovers a complex relationship between competition law stringency, enforcement, and productivity. While certain legal provisions positively influence productivity—especially when accounting for firm size—stronger enforcement may offset these gains, likely due to higher compliance costs and legal uncertainty. The findings highlight the need for a balanced approach to competition regulation that fosters innovation and growth without overburdening firms. Tailoring policies to industry-specific conditions is critical for promoting fair competition and sustainable productivity improvements.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

Competition Law and Regulations: Productivity Impacts in Latin American Manufacturing Firms

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年4月10日

查看全文
  • Sara A. Wong,
  • Marjan Petreski

摘要

This paper examines how competition laws and regulations affect manufacturing firms’ productivity in 14 Latin American countries, addressing a notable research gap. Using firm-level panel data from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys and legal indicators from the Comparative Competition Law initiative, the study explores the impact of competition law on total factor productivity (TFP), focusing on mediators such as firm size, proximity to the technological frontier, and institutional context. Employing robust empirical methods, the analysis uncovers a complex relationship between competition law stringency, enforcement, and productivity. While certain legal provisions positively influence productivity—especially when accounting for firm size—stronger enforcement may offset these gains, likely due to higher compliance costs and legal uncertainty. The findings highlight the need for a balanced approach to competition regulation that fosters innovation and growth without overburdening firms. Tailoring policies to industry-specific conditions is critical for promoting fair competition and sustainable productivity improvements.