Final answer:
The statement is False; 'co-opetition' refers to situations where competitors cooperate for mutual benefit, though it may include non-competitors as well. It is common in oligopolies and can yield benefits similar to monopolies, but is often legally constrained.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that co-opetition applies only to situations where non-competitors work together is False. The term 'co-opetition' is a blend of 'cooperation' and 'competition' and refers to scenarios where businesses or entities that are typically in competition collaborate in certain aspects for mutual benefit, including instances where direct competitors work together on projects. However, co-opetition does not exclude non-competitors from collaborating; they can also engage in co-opetition by working on joint ventures that serve both of their interests.
In the context of oligopolies, firms may choose to cooperate with one another on output and pricing strategies to act as a single monopoly, thus earning larger profits. This form of co-opetition, while potentially profitable, is often regulated or restricted by legal frameworks such as antitrust laws in the United States and the European Union. The dynamic nature of competition and cooperation in various biological and economic systems underlines the universality of these concepts across disciplines. Co-opetition can prove advantageous in maximizing efficiency and leveraging synergies between firms within the constraints of regulatory environments.