Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-01 23:40Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the regulatory scrutiny faced by travel platforms like Ctrip due to their pricing algorithms that manipulate hotel prices, impacting merchants' profits and raising concerns about unfair competition [1][11][12] Regulatory Actions - On September 17, 2025, the Zhengzhou Market Supervision Administration conducted an administrative interview with Ctrip, citing unreasonable restrictions on platform operators through service agreements and technical means [1] - This was the second regulatory interview for Ctrip within 43 days, indicating a pattern of scrutiny from authorities [1] - The Guizhou Market Supervision Administration previously addressed similar issues with Ctrip and other travel platforms, pointing out practices like "choose one from two" and price manipulation [3] Pricing Algorithm Concerns - Ctrip's "Pricing Assistant" tool, designed to help hotels remain competitive, has been criticized for forcing merchants to lower prices below those on other platforms or face reduced visibility [5][9] - Merchants report that the tool modifies prices without prior notification, leading to operational disruptions [6][9] - Some larger hotel brands have implemented systems to counteract these price changes, while smaller hotels lack the resources to resist algorithmic control [6][11] Impact on Merchants - The pricing strategies employed by platforms create a dilemma for hotel operators, who must choose between granting access to their pricing tools or risking reduced exposure on the platform [5][6] - Merchants express frustration over being used as promotional tools for platforms, often leading to unprofitable pricing [9][11] Industry Implications - The ongoing regulatory pressure reflects a broader issue of profit redistribution between platform economies and traditional businesses, where platforms gain excessive bargaining power at the expense of merchants [11][12] - The article emphasizes the need for a fair and transparent platform economy that respects the rights of all parties involved to ensure sustainable development [12]