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Price Discrimination in Input Markets: Downstream Entry and Welfare

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  • Herweg, Fabian
  • Müller, Daniel

Abstract

The extant theory on price discrimination in input markets takes the structure of the intermediate industry as exogenously given. This paper endogenizes the structure of the intermediate industry and examines the effects of banning third-degree price discrimination on market structure and welfare. We identify situations where banning price discrimination leads to either higher or lower prices for all downstream firms. These findings are driven by the fact that upstream profits are discontinuous due to entry being costly. Moreover, permitting price discrimination fosters entry which in many cases improves welfare. Nevertheless, entry can also reduce welfare because it may lead to a severe inefficiency in production.

Suggested Citation

  • Herweg, Fabian & Müller, Daniel, 2010. "Price Discrimination in Input Markets: Downstream Entry and Welfare," Bonn Econ Discussion Papers 06/2010, University of Bonn, Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:bonedp:062010
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Entry; Input Markets; Market Structure; Price Discrimination; Vertical Contracting;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D43 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Oligopoly and Other Forms of Market Imperfection
    • L11 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Production, Pricing, and Market Structure; Size Distribution of Firms
    • L42 - Industrial Organization - - Antitrust Issues and Policies - - - Vertical Restraints; Resale Price Maintenance; Quantity Discounts

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