Debate has sharpened the attention of technical experts on the need for greater understanding of the Codex Alimentarius, for enhanced systems to disseminate Codex information in each country and within MERCOSUR, for stronger national focal points and for national committee structures that will bring together the authorities, experts from universities and centres of technology, associations of food importers and exporters and consumer groups so that they can pool their experiences and thus contribute towards standardization on a realistic and scientific basis. This heightened interest in Codex activities on the part of the four countries could provide a mechanism by which the experiences of these countries and of MERCOSUR can reach a wider audience and have a stronger influence on the setting of international food standards.