This session is dedicated to the review of experience gained in the implementation of the UN Set, including UNCTAD voluntary peer reviews.

The UN Set was adopted in 1980 and provides for equitable rules to prevent anti-competitive practices, while recognizing the development dimension of competition law and policy. It offers a framework for international cooperation and exchange of experience and calls for technical assistance in the field of competition law and policy.

During this session, particular emphasis shall be given to the review of major developments which have taken place at the national, regional and multilateral levels in the field of competition law and policy since the Fifth UN Review Conference in November 2005.

Regarding the multilateral level, mention will be made of UNCTAD's cooperation with international organizations and the International Competition Network (ICN), as well as the outcome of UNCTAD XII (April 2008).

In addition, an evaluation shall be made of progress in the implementation of the UN Set by member States and by the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Competition Law and Policy (IGE) of the resolution adopted by the Fifth UN Review Conference.

As part of UNCTAD's technical assistance, the voluntary peer reviews constitute a significant contribution to the implementation of the UN Set since 2005. They are designed according to the specific needs of competition authorities in developing countries and economies in transition.

The Sixth UN Review Conference provides a good occasion to draw lessons from past peer reviews and member States' experience with the implementation of peer review recommendations.