mededinging

Mededinging is the Dutch term for competition, referring to the rivalry among buyers and sellers in markets that shapes prices, quality and innovation. In economics and policy, mededinging aims to keep markets open and contestable so resources are allocated efficiently and consumers benefit from lower prices, better choices and more innovation. Competition arises through price and non-price rivalry, product differentiation, and new entrants challenging incumbents; it is fostered by rules that prevent anti-competitive agreements and abuse of market power.

Anti-competitive practices include cartels that fix prices or allocate markets, abuse of a dominant position that excludes rivals, and mergers or acquisitions that substantially lessen competition. Vertical restraints, exclusive dealing, and certain state aid cases can also hinder mededinging if they foreclose competition.

Regulation and enforcement differ by jurisdiction but share a common objective. In the Netherlands, the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) administers competition law under the Dutch Mededingingswet and enforces rules against cartels, abuse of dominance, and mergers. At the European level, the European Commission enforces EU competition law under Articles 101 and 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, coordinating with national authorities. Merger control and remedies are used to prevent market harm and preserve consumer welfare.

Competition can be measured by market structure and performance indicators such as market concentration, price levels, and entry barriers. Higher competition generally lowers prices and expands consumer choice, though it can also impose short-term adjustment costs for firms and workers. Policymakers balance promoting competition with other goals such as innovation, quality, and systemic stability.