Competition policy in small jurisdictions

Abstract

This paper argues that in small jurisdictions, the formulation and implementation of competition policies should take account of the special characteristics associated with small domestic markets. Special reference will be made to Malta, a small island state, with a very small domestic market and a competition legislation modelled on the law of larger European states, to a lesser extent of the United States. The paper will attempt to show that there are many factors associated with small domestic markets that have a bearing on competition law and policy. The thrust of the argument is that while the main principles of competition law that have evolved in larger economies are relevant also to smaller economies, the mode and intensity of application may have to be different in order to take into account the particular characteristics of small insular markets.