Latin America has undergone significant transformation in the field of merger control over the past decade. Competition regulators across the region have grown markedly in sophistication, institutional capacity, and enforcement efficacy, evolving into regimes that increasingly reflect international best practices. Against this backdrop, mandatory pre-closing merger review has become the norm rather than the exception.
This post examines recent significant developments in two jurisdictions: Argentina and Mexico. Both countries have implemented, or are in the process of implementing, material changes to their merger control regimes that carry practical implications for businesses active in, or acquiring assets in, Latin America. In Argentina, the focus is on the long-anticipated shift from post-closing to pre-closing notification, which will take effect in November 2026. In Mexico, key developments include the establishment of a new merger control authority, a reduction in