The demand for products and services differs in different situations. Demand may be classified based on the usage of a product, nature of a product, product’s suppliers and the number of consumers. There are different types of demand including individual and market-based demand, industry and organization demand, autonomous and derived demand, demand for durable and perishable products and short-term and long-demand. In this article, we will look at the differences between autonomous demand and derived demand. 

What is Autonomous Demand?

This is the demand for products and services that is not influenced or determined by other goods. As such, the demand for these products arises due to the physical, biological and other personal needs of consumers. 

Though a rare occurrence, it arises due to individuals’ desire to consume certain products. For instance, the demand for basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing as well as other personal goods such as vehicles is autonomous. 

What is Derived Demand?

This is the demand for products and services that is determined and influenced by the extent and nature of other activities. For instance, in ongoing construction, iron and cement are examples of derived demand. 

Another example is the demand for diesel or petrol based on the usage of vehicles. Also, raw materials required in the production of a product, complementary goods and substitutes often result in derived demand. 

Similarities between Autonomous demand and Derived demand

• Both refer to the demand of products and services

Differences between Autonomous demand and Derived demand

Definition

Autonomous demand refers to the demand for products and services that is not influenced or determined by other goods. On the other hand, derived demand refers to the demand for products and services that is determined and influenced by the extent and nature of other activities. 

Elasticity of demand

While autonomous demand has less elasticity of demand, derived demand has greater elasticity of demand. 

Nature

Autonomous demand is unspecified. On the other hand, derived demand is specific. 

Autonomous demand vs. Derived demand: Comparison Table

Summary of Autonomous demand and Derived demand

Autonomous demand refers to the demand for products and services that is not influenced or determined by other goods. Examples of autonomous demand include basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing as well as other personal goods such as vehicles. On the other hand, derived demand refers to the demand for products and services that is determined and influenced by the extent and nature of other activities. Examples of derived demand include the demand for diesel or petrol based on the usage of vehicles, raw materials required in the production of a product, complementary and substitute goods. 

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