Selling cross-border in online markets: The impact of the ban on geoblocking strategies

B-Tier
Journal: International Journal of Industrial Organization
Year: 2023
Volume: 86
Issue: C

Score contribution per author:

1.005 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 1.0x B-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We develop a model of strategic geoblocking, where two competing multi-channel retailers, located in different countries, can decide to block access to their online store from foreign consumers. We characterize the equilibrium when firms decide unilaterally whether to introduce geoblocking restrictions. We show that geoblocking allows firms to soften competition, but at the cost of lower demand. A ban on geoblocking leads to lower prices, both offline and online. However, when firms can invest in increasing online demand, the ban may have adverse effects on investment and social welfare. We extend our analysis to account for price discrimination and investigate the role of shipping costs.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:indorg:v:86:y:2023:i:c:s0167718722000674
Journal Field
Industrial Organization
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-24