Industrial concentration and price-cost margin of the indonesian food and beverages sector

This article investigates trends in industrial concentration and its relationship with the price-cost margin in 54 subsectors of the Indonesian food and beverages sector in the period 1995 to 2006. This study uses firm-level survey data provided by the Indonesian Bureau of Central Statistics (BPS), classified at the five-digit International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) Level. The results show a significant increase in industrial concentration in 1995 to 1999, which coincided with the period of the economic crisis in Indonesia. After 1999, the industrial concentration exhibits a slightly decreasing long-term trend. Furthermore, the industrial concentration for all subsectors tends to converge to the same value in the long run. Additionally, results show that higher industrial concentration yields a higher price-cost margin. Finally, the introduction of the competition law in 1999 has slightly lowered industrial concentration and the price-cost margi

The efficiency test under competition law and regulation in the small distant open economy that is New Zealand

This paper considers the application of competition law and price regulation in the very small and isolated economy that is New Zealand. It argues that the total surplus (efficiency) criterion should be applied in tests of practices and actions where the competition threshold is not met or doubtful. Further, it argues that this criterion is admitted, if not required, under New Zealand statutes. The differential treatment of affected parties, including foreign investors, in measuring the surplus is considered.