rationalize and regulate the economy and promote the overall development of the country.
Article 113: Monopolies shall not be permitted. Any act, activity,
conduct or agreement of private individuals which is intended to
establish a monopoly or which leads by reason of its actual effects to
the existence of a monopoly, regardless of the intentions of the persons involved, and whatever the form it actually takes, is hereby
declared contrary to the fundamental principles of this Constitution.
Also contrary to such principles is abuse of a position of dominance
which a private individual, a group of individuals or a business enterprise or group of enterprises acquires or has acquired in a given market of goods or services, regardless of what factors caused such position of dominance, as well as in the event of a concentration of
demand. In all of the cases indicated, the State shall be required to
adopt such measures as may be necessary to prevent the harmful and
restrictive effects of monopoly, abuse of a position of dominance and
a concentration of demand, with the purpose of protecting consumers
and producers* and ensuring the existence of genuine competitive
conditions in the economy.
In the case of the exploitation of natural resources which are the property of the Nation or the providing of services of a public nature, on an exclusive basis or otherwise, the State shall grant concessions for a certain period, in all cases ensuring the existence of adequate consideration or compensation to serve the public interest.
Article 114: Economic crime, speculation, hoarding, usury, the
formation of cartels and other related offenses, shall be punished
severely in accordance with law.
Article 115: The right of property is guaranteed. Every person has
the right to the use, enjoyment, usufruct and disposal of his or her
goods. Property shall be subject to such contributions, restrictions and
obligations as may be established by law in the service of the public
or general interest. Only for reasons of public benefit or social inter-