Allocatiefunctie

The allocative function describes how, in a market economy, supply and demand allocate goods and services through prices to those parties that place the highest value on them. This ensures an efficient distribution of scarce resources without the need for central planning.

In Dutch law, the allocative function is relevant in the fields of competition law and economic administrative law. Government measures such as regulation or state aid may disrupt this function or, conversely, correct it in cases of market failure.

In practice, the concept is frequently invoked in proceedings concerning market interventions, where the question is whether a measure impedes the efficient allocation of resources.