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Making Neoliberalism Possible: The State's Organization of Business Support for NAFTA in Mexico

Author

Listed:
  • Malcolm Fairbrother

    (Center for U.S.-Mexican Studies, University of California, San Diego, mfair@berkeley.edu)

Abstract

In shifting from nationalist/statist to neoliberal economic policies, states seek out and build alliances with other advocates—especially large capital—and work to disorganize political opponents—including small business. This article examines the politics of the private sector's involvement in trade liberalization in the developing world through a study of Mexico's proposal, negotiation, and ratification of the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The article identifies three instruments that the Mexican state used to construct politically crucial support for NAFTA on the part of domestic business: control over political representation, material concessions to potential critics, and careful strategic framing.

Suggested Citation

  • Malcolm Fairbrother, 2007. "Making Neoliberalism Possible: The State's Organization of Business Support for NAFTA in Mexico," Politics & Society, , vol. 35(2), pages 265-300, June.
  • Handle: RePEc:sae:polsoc:v:35:y:2007:i:2:p:265-300
    DOI: 10.1177/0032329207300393
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Chase, Kerry A., 2003. "Economic Interests and Regional Trading Arrangements: The Case of NAFTA," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 57(1), pages 137-174, January.
    2. repec:idb:brikps:8702 is not listed on IDEAS
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    Cited by:

    1. Evans, Peter, 2010. "Is it Labor’s Turn to Globalize? Twenty-first Century Opportunities and Strategic Responses," Institute for Research on Labor and Employment, Working Paper Series qt10j002st, Institute of Industrial Relations, UC Berkeley.

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