Question

Assume the auto market is initially in equilibrium with imports from Japan taking up a significant share of the market. Now assume a quota on imports of Japanese cars is established. What will occur at the initial equilibrium price to signal market participants regarding the change that has taken place?

Answer 1

Answer:

It depends

Explanation: If the quota is a lower value than the current level of japan sales, the equilibrium price will go up, because the supply will be lower than the demand pushing the price to rise and incentivizing other car suppliers to increase the offer. If the quota is higher than the current sales of Japanese cars, and if the demand keeps pushing the supply to go up, the market share of Japanese car will grow until meeting the quota. The price will go up until achieve equilibrium again. After that point, the market supply will be based on changes in the market no related to Japanese imports.