黄阳华：适度竞争有利于破解外卖行业“积弊”

Core Viewpoint - The entry of JD into the food delivery market has intensified competition, leading to significant growth in order volume and raising concerns about industry structure, merchant survival, and rider rights [1][4]. Group 1: Industry Issues - The food delivery market has historically been dominated by a duopoly, resulting in various industry practices that require reform [2]. - Merchants, especially small and medium-sized ones, lack sufficient pricing autonomy and face high commissions, which affects their competitive rights and interests [2][3]. - Consumers may suffer from a lack of choice due to algorithmic and data monopolies created by large platforms, impacting their transaction rights and potential earnings [2][3]. Group 2: Rider Rights and Market Dynamics - Riders are in a passive position with insufficient protection of their labor rights, including social security and work autonomy, which is a consequence of inadequate competition [3][4]. - The introduction of new competitors is essential for providing merchants with more options and improving their rights, as well as enhancing consumer and rider protections [3][4]. Group 3: Impact of Subsidies - The recent subsidy wars have highlighted the need for addressing long-standing issues in the industry, with platforms beginning to offer subsidies to both consumers and merchants [4]. - Despite the subsidies, many small merchants may still face financial difficulties due to fixed costs like rent and wages, leading to a situation where increased orders do not necessarily translate to higher profits [5]. - The disparity in benefits from subsidies means larger merchants may see gains, while smaller ones could struggle, creating a dilemma for them regarding participation in subsidy programs [5]. Group 4: Future of the Industry - The future health of the food delivery industry hinges on how platforms define their "social function," balancing the needs of consumers, merchants, and riders [6]. - A focus solely on technical optimization may lead to negative outcomes, as more precise algorithms could limit riders' operational space [6]. - The core issue lies in the platforms' understanding of their role, which should prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains by exploiting one party's interests to benefit another [6].