Chinese authorities have launched a public consultation on proposed pricing regulations for internet platform companies, signaling a push to balance innovation with consumer protection in the world's largest digital market. The draft rules, released jointly by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), State Administration for Market Regulation, and Cyberspace Administration of China, aim to establish clear guidelines for price transparency and fair competition.
The regulations would require platforms to display all prices and service fees prominently, prohibiting hidden charges or unexpected surcharges. A senior NDRC official stated the measures seek to create "a transparent and predictable regulatory environment" while preserving operators' rights to set prices independently under existing laws.
Analysts suggest the move could reshape business practices for e-commerce giants, food delivery platforms, and ride-hailing services. The month-long public feedback period allows businesses and consumers to weigh in before final implementation.
This initiative follows China's broader efforts to standardize its rapidly growing platform economy, which accounts for nearly 30% of the country's GDP. Recent regulatory actions have focused on preventing market monopolies and protecting user data privacy while maintaining sector growth.
