泥坑打架，哪有赢家

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "involution" in various industries, characterized by chaotic competition that undermines cost and quality standards, prompting calls for reform and regulatory action to address low-price disorderly competition [1][2]. Industry Overview - Over 20 national and local industry associations have called for a "counter-involution" movement across sectors including steel, automotive, photovoltaic, catering, finance, logistics, and beauty services, indicating widespread concern about the impact of this competition on industry transformation and development [1]. - The current competitive landscape has shifted from external expansion to internal exploration, leading to intensified competition among domestic firms as external competitors diminish [2]. Competitive Dynamics - The average gross profit margin for five leading wind power companies has plummeted from 19.2% in 2021 to 5.5% in 2024, with many firms reportedly operating at a loss [3]. - Quality and safety standards are under threat as companies cut costs in materials and processes to remain competitive, resulting in a significant number of substandard products in the market [3]. - Research and development expenditures among 30 major photovoltaic companies fell by 18.12% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, jeopardizing the industry's innovation capabilities [4]. Types of Competition - The article identifies four distinct forms of competition within the current landscape: - Rule-breaking competition: Involves illegal practices such as false advertising and substandard products, which undermine market fairness [5]. - Internal consumption competition: Characterized by homogenous competition in a limited market, leading to price wars without significant technological advancements [5]. - Strategic investment competition: Involves companies accepting short-term losses for long-term market positioning [5]. - Innovation-driven price reduction: Results from technological advancements that lower costs, indicating a healthy competitive environment [6]. Regulatory and Governance Actions - The government aims to create a fair competitive environment while companies focus on innovation and efficiency [8][12]. - New policies are being implemented to address issues such as "below-cost sales" and to enhance the regulation of unfair pricing practices [9]. - Industry associations are playing a crucial role in promoting self-regulation and rational pricing among companies [10]. Future Outlook - Despite the current challenges, companies express optimism about future growth, particularly in the renewable energy sector, with projections for significant increases in installed capacity by 2035 [12]. - Companies are adapting by focusing on cost efficiency, technological advancements, and exploring new markets, indicating a shift towards a more sustainable competitive strategy [11][12].