Integration processes in MERCOSUR: modern features and dynamics of development

The article examines the current state and prospects for the development of the MERCOSUR integration association – the common market of South American countries. The purpose of the analysis carried out in the article is to determine the role and place of Argentina in MERCOSUR. The subject of the study is the integration association in MERCOSUR, and the object is the modern specifics of integration processes within the framework of the association. The article analyzes the main macroeconomic indicators of the association and the structure of trade both within the bloc and with third countries. Based on a comprehensive and in-depth statistical analysis based on data from the international database of UNCTAD, the authors conclude that the prospects for further economic development of MERCOSUR are quite promising. The countries of the association are steadily increasing their economic potential, as well as the level of mutual cooperation in various fields – trade, investment, and digitalization. The Association is increasingly actively cooperating with third countries, largely due to Brazil's participation in the BRICS. Thus, the article shows that the integration process has advanced in qualitative aspects, and the prospects for its further development can be assessed as positive. At the same time the integration process in MERCOSUR is not free from problems and difficulties at both the country and continental and global levels, which limit and restrain its further deepening and development. The study period is 2012–2022. As a methodology, the article uses reliable statistical information and provides its comparative analysis using visual methods. The authors used historical and complex approaches.