Chapter 3: Problem 44

Use the four-step process to analyze the impact of a reduction in tariffs on imports of iPods on the equilibrium price and quantity of Sony Walkman-type products.

Short Answer

Expert verified

In conclusion, a reduction in tariffs on iPod imports will likely cause a decrease in both the equilibrium price and quantity of Sony Walkman-type products. This is due to a leftward shift in the demand curve as consumers may choose iPods over Sony Walkman-type products, given the lower price of iPods resulting from reduced tariffs. The supply curve remains unchanged, and the new equilibrium point is found where the shifted demand curve intersects the supply curve.

Step by step solution

Understand the market

In this exercise, we are looking at the market for Sony Walkman-type products. These are portable music players that would be considered substitutes for iPods. As the tariff on iPod imports is reduced, we can assume that more iPods will be imported and sold, possibly affecting the market for Sony Walkman-type products.

Determine the effect on the supply and demand curves

As the tariff on iPod imports is reduced, the price of iPods in the domestic market is likely to decrease, making them more affordable for consumers. This may cause some consumers to choose iPods over Sony Walkman-type products, resulting in a decrease in demand for Sony Walkman-type products. We can represent this as a leftward shift in the demand curve. On the supply side, the reduction in iPod tariffs should not directly impact the production of Sony Walkman-type products, so we don't expect to see any significant changes to the supply curve.

Find the new equilibrium point

The leftward shift in the demand curve for Sony Walkman-type products, due to the decrease in iPod tariffs, will result in a new equilibrium point. To find this point, identify where the new demand curve intersects the supply curve.

Determine the impact on the equilibrium price and quantity of Sony Walkman-type products

At the new equilibrium point found in Step 3, we can now identify the new equilibrium price and quantity of Sony Walkman-type products. With the decrease in demand, the equilibrium quantity of Sony Walkman-type products will be lower than it was before the tariff reduction. Additionally, the lower demand will likely lead to a lower equilibrium price for these products, as the decreased demand results in downward pressure on the price. In conclusion, the reduction in tariffs on iPod imports will likely result in a decrease in both the equilibrium price and quantity of Sony Walkman-type products, due to a leftward shift in the demand curve.

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