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Input-Output Linkages and Monopolistic Competition: Input Distortion and Optimal Policies

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  • Jung, Benjamin
  • Kohler, Wilhelm

Abstract

We show that the combination of monopolistic competition and input-output linkages generate what we call an input distortion. The distortion arises because material input prices involve a markup over the social opportunity cost. This has so far escaped attention in the literature addressing efficiency of monopolistic competition equilibria. Using a stylized single sector model, we provide a full description of the social optimum for an economy featuring an input-output linkage in the presence of monopolistic competition. Using this as a benchmark, we describe the allocational inefficiency of a decentralized market equilibrium as well as first-best policies to achieve efficiency. In an integrated world equilibrium, a material input subsidy and an output subsidy turn out to be perfect substitutes. A wage tax is unable to serve in offsetting the input distortion. In a cooperative policy setting with two countries, an input subsidy is a second-best policy to address the input distortion.

Suggested Citation

  • Jung, Benjamin & Kohler, Wilhelm, 2020. "Input-Output Linkages and Monopolistic Competition: Input Distortion and Optimal Policies," VfS Annual Conference 2020 (Virtual Conference): Gender Economics 224608, Verein für Socialpolitik / German Economic Association.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:vfsc20:224608
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • F12 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Models of Trade with Imperfect Competition and Scale Economies; Fragmentation

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