Number: 98-432
Title: MERCOSUR: FORMATION, STATUS, TRADE EFFECTS, POLICY CHALLENGES, AND U.S. INTERESTS
Authors: Raymond J. Ahearn, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division 
Abstract: Mercosur, consisting of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, is the third largest preferential trading group in the world. Since its inception in 1991, Mercosur has made considerable progress in integrating the economies of its members. The integration--an almost complete free trade area and a partial customs union--has been accompanied by a significant increase in U.S. exports and investment to the region. In general, the United States has viewed the evolution of Mercosur as being supportive of its political interests as well, although Mercosur is seen as favoring a slower approach to hemispheric economic integration. In the future, Mercosur faces challenges affecting the size of its membership, the depth of its integration, and the strength of its institutions.
Pages: 7
Date: Updated May 6, 1998