Continuation of negotiations on competition
Article 57
1. The Parties recognise the importance of free and undistorted competition in their trade relations and the fact that certain anti-competitive practices may restrict trade between the Parties and thus hinder the achievement of the objectives of this Agreement. 2. The Parties therefore agree to take part in the negotiations on a chapter on competition in the EPA, which will include the following in particular: (a) anti-competitive practices which are considered incompatible with the proper functioning of this Agreement, insofar as they can affect trade between the Parties; (b) provisions on the effective implementation of competition rules and policies and of regional policies in Central Africa which govern the anti-competitive practices identified in accordance with paragraph 2(a); (c) provisions on technical assistance by independent experts to ensure that the Chapter's objectives are achieved and that Central Africa's competition policies are properly implemented at regional level. 3. The negotiations shall be based on a two-step approach, first applying the rules in the context of regional integration in Central Africa and, after a transition period to be determined jointly, applying the rules bilaterally. 4. The negotiations on the competition chapter shall be concluded by 1 January 2009.