Introduction
It is the policy of the Dutch government to strengthen competition both in the markets for goods and the market for production factors (such as financial and labour markets), as well as to improve regulation and to introduce competition into previously supply-driven markets. This is a process which often raises complex economic and social issues. In the sectors concerned, unbridled free market forces frequently fail to have the desired effect; moreover, there are public interests at stake and they need to be protected. This is the case when, for example, one player in the market gains a position of economic dominance or when players conspire to form a cartel. Government intervention is often necessary, then, but that in itself generates a whole range of problems. The result is a constant and continuing search for the ideal balance between free markets and intervention – a search which is embracing more and more fields of economic activity, in many cases inspired by the rules emanating from Brussels.
Our research
The theme of the research projects carried out by the Regulation and Competition section is the design, analysis and evaluation of competition and government intervention, and aims to advising both public agencies and private companies on the economic aspects of new or existing rules in numerous sectors. Because of the amount of economic literature appearing in this field, it is currently a most innovative area of research. As well as applying the very latest ideas in economics to issues related to the functioning of (free) markets, regulation and deregulation, we look at the economic aspects of cartels, mergers, market dominance and other topics in the field of competition.
Our research covers a wide spectrum of subjects, including market delineation and the various aspects of market power – degree of concentration, barriers to entry, switching costs and so on – as well as the abuse of that power through monopolistic behaviour such as overpricing and underpricing, discrimination and limiting production. Other section specialities are assessing new or established regulations and policy from the perspective of law and economics, and describing and analysing the structure, behaviour and performance of markets and sectors. For more information about our expertise, research areas, publications and clients, follow the links below.
Our researchers
The following researchers are active in the Regulation and Competition section.
- Joost Poort (section head)
- Bert Tieben (senior)
- Rob van der Noll (senior)
- Marco Kerste (senior)
- Koert van Buiren (senior)
- Jarst Weda
- Ilan Akker
Contact
Section head, Joost Poort (j.poort@seo.nl)