Rationing

Rationing is limiting the purchase or use of a good. Typically this term refers to rationing by the government when its policies result in a supply less than demand.

The most common form of rationing results from price controls, whereby the government limits the price that can be charged for a good. This reduces supply and not everyone wanting to purchase the good can do so.

Rationing during wartime is common in many countries. Rationing is also common in communist countries.