EXAMINING THE MONOPOLISTIC BEHAVIOR ON THE DAIRY INDUSTRY CONSUMERS, ECONOMY AND SOCIETY IN QATAR

Abstract

The current research study attempts to assess the monopolistic behaviour in the Qatari dairy industry. The key research problem resolves around assessing how the monopolistic tendencies possibly influence the consumer welfare, social well-being, and economic dynamics, including aspects like product quality, pricing, accessibility, and broader implications on the national economy. The research aim is to understand how consumer welfare in the chosen sector could be enhanced by understand the impact of monopolistic practices on dairy consumer satisfaction. To achieve the research aim, the researcher conducted survey with 102 dairy customers, and managers of 6 local Qatari dairy companies. The analysis highlighted mixed insights, suggesting that monopolistic behaviors manifest in the dairy industry. The prevailing tendencies does not significantly influence consumer welfare, as some respondents showed dissatisfaction, while, some seemed satisfied with the product quality and pricing despite firms showing monopolistic behavior. The analysis further suggested that the consumer satisfaction in Qatari dairy industry derives significant influence from product diversity, quality, and consumption frequency. The consumers' demographic characteristics play no role in shaping perceptions towards quality, accessibility, affordability, and consumption frequency. The company data analysis suggested that overall, Qatari local dairy companies recognize the emerging opportunities, but exhibit varying degrees of optimism regarding the market potential. Based on overall analysis, the study concludes that the strategic distribution, adaptability, and innovation are critical for Qatari local dairy companies to thrive in the market. The government needs to take more measures to encourage the fair competition. However, despite the monopolistic tendencies, the market is still showing an overall positive outlook with some room for improvement. Qatari local companies need to invest on more effective marketing strategies to build their brands and meet the consumers' evolving dairy industry.