Alca - the proposal of asymmetric integration: the possible risks and opportunities for mercosul

Abstract

The integration has permitted that the nations to overcome historical conflicts and has gathered people that were separated by economical and political divergences. Although in the way to Mercosul, arises the North American proposal for the constitution of Alca – Area de Livre Comércio das Americas (America’s Free Commerce Area) until 2005. What’s the best option for the countries that are members of Mercosul: keep on going to the common market or retreat and assimilate the proposal of a free commerce area? Basing on the interpretations of the negotiations maintained until the moment, the present study analysis the advantages and dangers that Alca’s constitution represents, as also tries to identify the best option of economical integration for the Mercosul.