This paper outlines some of the issues that affect small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in three areas: regulation, procurement, and dispute resolution. The work presented herein is part of the Bank's most recent efforts to develop new approaches and instruments to strengthen its role as a...

In the first half of 1998, the impact of the Asian crisis on the level of economic activity in the four MERCOSUR countries was, in addition to being reasonably differentiated, much less severe than had been forecast at the end of 1997. However, the sub-regional gross domestic product (GDP),...

MERCOSUR has become less operational, despite government claims that it will continue to play a leading role in the international insertion strategies of its member countries for some years. The current crisis is clearly far from over. It is important to note that the enormous difficulties that...

In the first half of 1997, MERCOSUR's macroeconomic situation was marked by two trends: first, improved performance in terms of output and inflation rates, in a context of relative fiscal fragility and external vulnerability; and second, convergence in the performance of the different countries,...

The second half of 1998 was a turning point in the macroeconomic evolution of the MERCOSUR countries, and will very probably mark the beginning of a new phase in relations between them. Despite some difficulties and setbacks, the initial stage ¿ from the signing of the Treaty of Asunción in...

MERCOSUR has become less operational, despite government claims that it will continue to play a leading role in the international insertion strategies of its member countries for some years. The current crisis is clearly far from over. It is important to note that the enormous difficulties that...

In the context of a growing world economy, a steady demand for raw materials and a wealth of liquidity, the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR: Mercado Común del Sur) continues to expand. The macroeconomic indicators reveal a more solid bloc than last year, and growth is combined with lower...

The main objective of the Joint Country Financial Accountability Assessment (CFAA) and the Country Procurement Assessment (CPAR) is to contribute to the implementation of Public Sector Modernization Vision and Strategy for 2002-2012 and its Medium Term Socio-Economic Policy Framework. It also...

This Country Program Evaluation (RE-359) covers the period from 2005 to 2009. OVE's most significant recommendation stemming from the analysis is that, if this is one of the new administration's priorities, the next strategy should design an assistance program aimed at closing the gap that...