(This summary has been automatically generated with AI, its content may differ from the original video in Spanish)
In an exclusive interview, Eduardo Montamat, President of Argentina’s National Commission for the Defense of Competition (CNDC), shared his vision for revitalizing the country’s competition enforcement framework, emphasizing the need for institutional reform, greater public awareness, and closer alignment with international best practices.
Montamat, who assumed the presidency of the CNDC just two months ago, highlighted that while Argentina has a century-long tradition of antitrust law—its first competition law dates back to 1923—there remains a significant gap between the existence of legal norms and their application, visibility, and impact.
“Argentina has a solid legal foundation, but we have an institution in need of reform,” Montamat said. “Institutional strengthening is part of the broader economic vision of the current government, which sees markets as essential mechanisms for the efficient allocation of resources.”
Closing the Knowledge Gap
Montamat emphasized that one of the main challenges is the general lack of awareness about antitrust law—both among the public and within academia.
“You can’t become aware of rights or risks if you don’t know they exist,” he noted. “In Argentina, as in many countries, antitrust is not widely taught at universities. That must change.”
The CNDC is looking to expand outreach and develop educational initiatives, with Montamat stressing the importance of “university extension” programs to build a broader culture of competition.
A Long-Awaited Reform: Toward an Independent Authority
The 2018 Competition Law envisioned the creation of an autonomous agency—the Agencia Nacional de la Competencia—to replace the CNDC. Montamat confirmed that the process of selecting members for this new tribunal is now underway.
“This is a project that’s been delayed for more than 25 years,” he explained. “Now, we’re taking the necessary steps to establish an independent body with members selected via open competition and with fixed terms that transcend political cycles.”
The transition will bring key institutional changes. Unlike the current setup—where decisions from the CNDC require endorsement by the Secretary of Commerce—the new authority will issue binding resolutions independently. It will also have its own budget, giving it crucial financial autonomy.
Restoring International Ties and Tackling Digital Markets
Montamat underscored the need for Argentina’s antitrust enforcement to reconnect with the international community and refine its approach to digital markets.
“We need to bring in global best practices, especially for emerging digital platforms,” he said. “The idea is to make the agency efficient, with the right people in the right positions, and a clear mandate.”
Plans are already in motion to modernize the agency’s facilities, including on-site accommodation to host visiting experts and foster deeper collaboration with international regulators.
Investment Climate and Market Liberalization
The interview also touched on Argentina’s broader economic reforms, including deregulation, the removal of currency controls, and efforts to attract foreign investment.
“The government’s economic vision is built on liberalizing markets while ensuring proper oversight,” Montamat said. “The CNDC plays a key role in ensuring that these newly opened markets remain competitive.”
He added that an effective competition authority reassures investors by guaranteeing a level playing field and preventing abuses of market power.
Final Thoughts: What Does the CNDC Need Most?
When asked what the new agency will need to succeed, Montamat was clear:
“Above all, we need the freedom to work independently. Of course, resources are always scarce, but if we can maintain continuity, professional development, and international collaboration, we can build an institution that endures beyond political changes.”
Montamat concluded by stressing that continuity and perseverance will be key to ensuring Argentina’s antitrust system evolves in line with modern global standards.
