A History of Business Cartels: International Politics, National Policies and Anti-Competitive Behaviour

International cartels are powerful organizations that have a significant impact on our everyday lives, but they are often little known. This book presents 15 historical case studies of international cartels that include agricultural and mineral commodities, the machinery industry, telephone equipment, whiskey, and cement. These cases reveal that international cartels manipulated prices and shared markets over many decades, but their real impact was far wider. The global convergence towards criminalizing serious cartel conduct has seen a revival in historical research on cartels and competition policy. This volume draws together researchers from different nations to examine the impact of international cartels on the experience of individual nations, their interactions with one or more international cartels, and the interactions of individual nations with the wider international community.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

International cartels are influential organizations that significantly impact our daily lives, despite their relatively lesser-known presence. This comprehensive volume presents a collection of 15 historical case studies, encompassing a diverse range of commodities such as agricultural and mineral products, machinery, telephone equipment, whiskey, and cement. These case studies shed light on the intricate strategies employed by international cartels to manipulate prices and dominate markets over extended periods. However, their true impact extends far beyond these narrow spheres.

The global trend towards criminalizing severe cartel conduct has sparked a renewed interest in historical research on cartels and competition policy. The regulatory landscape surrounding anti-competitive behavior has undergone significant transformations throughout history. To comprehend why modern economies, including the United States, European nations, and others, have evolved their policies over the 20th century, it is essential to delve into the intricate dynamics between governments and business organizations, such as cartels. This volume brings together scholars from diverse countries to explore the multifaceted effects of international cartels on individual nations, their interactions with one or more international cartels, and ultimately, their interactions with the broader international community.

This book holds immense value for researchers, academics, advanced students, and individuals with a keen interest in business and economic history, political economy, government policy, cartels, and their profound impact on the broader economy. It provides a rich source of insights and analysis, contributing to our understanding of the complex interplay between governments, businesses, and global markets.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 228 x 152 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367653286