Question

In the real world, firms often compete with each other in the marketplace. Why is it that firms do not simply agree to charge the price that maximises industry profits?

Answer 1

In a perfectly competitive market, firms sell their products at prices determined solely by forces beyond their control. Because the products are very similar and each firm contributes only a small amount to the total quantity supplied by the industry, price is determined by supply and demand. A firm that raised its price even a little above the going rate would lose customers. In the wheat market, for example, the product is essentially the same from one wheat producer to the next. Thus, none of the producers has control over the price of wheat.

Firms do not simply agree to charge the price that maximises industry profits because governments regulate these prices.

When firms compete with each other, consumers get the best possible prices, quantity, and quality of goods and services. Antitrust laws encourage companies to compete so that both consumers and businesses benefit. One important benefit of competition is a boost to innovation.