Determinants of state competition policy in the information technology market

The relevance of this research stems from the information-technology marketʼs strategic role in Ukraineʼs economy and from the new directions of state competition policy that should foster its development. The analysis puts for­ward, and confirms, the hypothesis that competition policy in this market must pursue a comprehensive agenda: stimulate efficiency and innovation, guarantee broad access to infor­mation and resources, and, mindful of domestic market challenges, strengthen firmsʼ overall competitiveness. The article explores the compe­tition policy in Ukraineʼs information techno­logy market in the context of the digital transformation of the economy. It identifies the structural and institutional determinants that shape the specific features of competition in the Ukrainian information technology market. The research outlines the structural organization of the market, which largely corresponds to the model of monopolistic competition, and exami­nes its institutional environment. The key institutional determinants influencing the forma­tion of a competitive environment are analyzed, including globalization, European integration, market openness due to the absence of strategic entry barriers, competition advocacy, the development of digital platforms, and the weak protection of intellectual property rights. Based on an assessment of the current state of the IT market, the article substantiates recommend­dations for improving the state competition policy in Ukraineʼs IT sector. It emphasizes the need for a policy oriented toward maintaining innovation dynamics to stimulate efficiency and innovation in economic activity, and to enhance the competitiveness of market participants.