On September 4th, 2024, the First International Seminar on Free Competition in Guatemala was held, bringing together academics and business leaders in a highly relevant event. Organized by the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, the World Association of Compliance and Academics, the seminar focused on key aspects of implementing competition laws in Guatemala.
Among the distinguished participants was CMI, Corporación Multi Inversiones, represented by José Gregorio Baquero, CEO of CMI Foods.
International Experience and the Importance of Competition Laws
During the seminar, experts discussed the benefits of implementing competition laws in Guatemala. It was highlighted that over 130 countries worldwide have competition laws, with most having been in place for over a century. According to Rodrigo Álvarez, professor at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile and Harvard University, these laws must be adapted to each country’s economic and regulatory environment, ensuring a balance between market control and economic growth.
The event emphasized successful case studies from countries that have effectively implemented competition laws. Panelists agreed that a fair, objective, and technical application of these regulations fosters economic development, encourages innovation, and expands consumer choices.
In this context, Baquero shared CMI’s perspective and commitment to promoting fair competition, ensuring equal market conditions, and preventing anti-competitive practices.
CMI’s Commitment to Free Competition
José Gregorio Baquero emphasized that CMI, as a multinational corporation, operates in 12 countries, 11 of which already have competition laws, representing over 70% of the company’s total sales. Thanks to its robust governance structure and Risk Management & Compliance Policy, CMI strictly adheres to the legal frameworks of every country in which it operates.
“At CMI Foods, we foster fair competition that drives investment and benefits consumers. We have the right processes, regulations, and corporate culture to operate in countries with modern competition laws,” Baquero stated during the business leaders’ panel. He also reaffirmed CMI’s commitment to continue operating under these principles, promoting economic growth and innovation in its markets.
With a strong governance and compliance framework, and under the leadership of Juan Luis Bosch Gutiérrez as Chairman of the Board of Directors of CMI, Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga as Chairman of CMI Foods, and Felipe Bosch Gutiérrez as Chairman of CMI Capital, the corporation has positioned itself as a regional leader. CMI remains dedicated to advocating for a fair business environment, ensuring objective regulatory enforcement, and prioritizing consumer well-being.
