25.08.202503:36:49UTC+00China Moves to Rein In Platform Pricing Manipulation

China has unveiled a set of draft regulations aimed at addressing unfair pricing practices on internet platforms, a move stemming from numerous complaints by both merchants and consumers. Announced by the National Development and Reform Commission, the proposed rules are designed to enhance transparency and fairness in the pricing of goods and services offered online. Under these regulations, platforms and merchants will be required to "negotiate and adjust prices using standardized methods such as contracts and orders." They must also "comply with explicit pricing rules, enhance the transparency of pricing policies, and promptly announce any fee changes to facilitate public oversight." This initiative is a response to accusations that major platforms manipulate prices to inflate sales and deceive consumers. The draft regulations are available for public commentary for a period of one month.