The Role of the Government in Regulation of the Market in Tanah Datar Regency to Achieve Price Stability and Community Welfare

Abstract

Markets play a crucial role in supporting the economic activities of the people of Tanah Datar Regency, particularly in the distribution of basic necessities, agricultural products, and various local commodities. Price changes in the market can have a direct impact on people's income, consumer purchasing power, and the welfare of business actors. Therefore, the local government plays a strategic role in creating healthy market mechanisms and maintaining price stability. This article aims to analyze the role of the Tanah Datar Regency Government in regulating the market to achieve price stability and improve public welfare. The research uses a descriptive qualitative approach utilizing secondary data derived from government documents, statistical publications, and various relevant literature. The results of the discussion indicate that the government plays a role through price monitoring and distribution of goods, controlling regional inflation, strengthening food security, facilitating trade, protecting consumers, and empowering business actors and MSMEs. These policies need to be implemented in an integrated manner involving the local government, traders, farmers, MSMEs, and the community. Effective market regulation is not only oriented towards price control but must also ensure smooth distribution, availability of goods, increased productivity, and equitable distribution of economic benefits. In this way, the local government can create more stable and fair market conditions and be able to support improving the welfare of the people of Tanah Datar Regency.