Which of the following policies is most likely to encourage innovation, higher quality goods, and lower prices?
a. encouraging public-private partnerships
b. passing government regulations to reduce business failures and protect consumers
c. reducing barriers that limit entry of firms into new and existing markets

The correct answer is c. Reducing barriers that limit entry of firms into new and existing markets.

Explanation:

An entry barrier is a high cost or other type of barrier that prevents a business from entering the market and competing with other businesses. Barriers to entry may include government regulations, the need for a license, or having to compete with a large corporation being a small business.

As an example, the large company is able to produce a larger quantity of products more efficiently than a company with fewer resources. They have lower costs because they are able to buy bulk materials, and they have less overhead because they produce more under one roof. It would be difficult for the small company to keep up with that, resulting in the avoidance of market entry.

Barriers to entry can have a negative effect on prices because the playing field is not level and competition is restricted. It is not an ideal situation for anyone except for the large company that has a monopoly. However, entry barriers are not always prohibitive. In fact, many new businesses find some type of entry barrier that they must overcome, be it the initial investment, the acquisition of licenses or obtaining a patent - it is only part of the business.