Nickname: Uwe

Review: In a country where after 500 years you can't get clean water out of your tap, do you really think the oligarchy is going to give up its monopolistic power? I continually hear that we need a few more generations. There is no political will here to change. There are plenty of laws in Mexico, but they are not adhered to. Sincerely, Uwe Meller

Date reviewed: Oct 6, 2006 11:33 PM

Nickname: el gringo

Review: The stories I could tell. I comment today as a small business owner in Mexico and the trickle-down effect of the monopolies is that, in addition to the issues mentioned in the article, there is absolutely no customer service from the "majors" and nobody stands behind their product because they don't have to. If I were in the same business in northern North America they'd be knocking down my door, offering incentives, and basically courting me for my business but here in Mexico the attitude is, "I am Coke, or Corona, or Wal-Mart and you will not only take it as I give it but you will like it and if you don't perhaps you won't get product when you most need it." The banditos of Mexico no longer wear sombreros and bandoleers but rather the uniforms of world renowned corporations.

Date reviewed: Oct 6, 2006 10:08 PM

Nickname: Jose Maria

Review: Duopolies or monopolies -private and public- are a nightmare for small business owners. Cementos Mexicanos, Petroleos Mexicanos,Modelo and FEMSA brewers, Pepsi and Coca Cola bottlers, Vitro, Altos Hornos and Hylsa (steel manufacturers), Televisa and TV Azteca (media)have to be blamed for blocking the entrance of competitors, with a lot of help from their government´s friends. The so called Televisa Law is a masterpiece on how strong the influence of Mr. Azcarraga´s media empire is. With such practices, Congress, and the Federal and State governments become simple puppets for their business plans. The baron robbers of America seem like sisters of charity in comparison with their Mexican equivalent.

Date reviewed: Oct 6, 2006 4:02 PM