Competition Law and International Trade: The European Union and the Neo-Liberal Factor
4 Pacific Rim Law and Policy Journal 37 (1995)
22 Pages Posted: 23 Jul 2013
Date Written: 1995
Abstract
Ordoliberalism, a particular version of European Neo-Liberal thought, has played a central role in the relationship between competition law and trade policy with the European Union. The substantive component of this body of thought, which is based in Germany, emphasizes the importance of a transaction-based economy and economic freedom; the process component emphasizes the need for juridical processes in economic policy-making. Ordoliberalism has shaped European Union competition law and trade policy and their roles in European integration, and its weakening may cause major changes in the relationship. This essay explores that impact and its potential consequences.
Keywords: ordoliberalism, Europe, Germany, competition law, antitrust law, international trade, international law, neo-liberalism, economics
JEL Classification: K19, K21, K33, K42
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation