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Based on China's multilevel engagement strategy in Latin America and the Caribbean, this paper seeks to investigate Argentina's subnational strategies towards the Asian giant in terms of energy transition in two areas: the production of renewable energies and the production of lithium as a storage medium. The perspectives of asymmetric interdependence and structuralism are used to explain the pattern of links between the two countries; and studies of paradiplomacy are used to understand the international actions of Argentina's provinces. The analysis focuses on energy initiatives between 2014 and 2023, using a qualitative methodology with case studies. The initial argument maintains that the development of clean energy is a complementary interest between the Argentine provinces and China, as the Asian country builds its leadership in the field of energy transition, and the provinces diversify their local production matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses competition conditions in the natural gas market in Argentina since the early 90 when the sector was privatized. These reforms aimed to improve efficiency. In order to achieve this goal, assets where privatized, the market was deregulated and competition was promoted. This paper analyses the effects of these reforms on competition conditions in the natural gas market. Concentration indexes show a high degree of concentration both at the national level and at the different basins. Also concentration has not decreased since the privatization process was launched. Finally, this market also presents high sunk costs that create barriers to entry for the entrance of new competitors. Competition conditions are more consistent with the performance of an oligopoly market. The Competition Authority and the Sectorial Regulator should monitor this performance since this market is not as competitive as it was thought when the sector was privatized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]