A need for harmonized legislation: perspectives in South America

The harmonization of national food standards in South America has been undertaken by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay within the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR). Since food is among the most important commodities traded internationally, the harmonization of national food standards has been considered a priority. MERCOSUR countries have different laws governing food that are based, among other things, on historical, cultural and economic factors. Some regulations are complex and contain many controls while others are less developed and lack basic requirements. As a consequence, from the inception of preparing a common legislation through its adoption by the member countries, a long and difficult task has been foreseen. Although not immediately apparent, the difficulty in achieving consensus within MERCOSUR is not unlike that experience by the members of the European Union. Currently, food harmonization within MERCOSUR has been reached for issues where technical standards may represent serious trade barriers. These decisions have been based on Codex limentarius Commission guidelines and recommendations as well as on the European Union experience. This article will briefly discuss the current status of the MERCOSUR harmonization process with focus on issues related to food safety. A historical background of MERCOSUR and its institutional structure are included.