时报观察|破除定价“黑箱” 保障消费公平

Core Viewpoint - The introduction of the "Internet Platform Pricing Behavior Rules" aims to address various pricing irregularities in the digital marketplace, enhancing consumer protection and ensuring fair consumption practices [1][2]. Group 1: Pricing Irregularities - Consumers are often charged more for the same services, with long-time users paying an average of 3 yuan more than new users [1]. - Issues such as automatic subscription renewals without prior notice and bundled sales of insurance or service packages with tickets have been highlighted as significant consumer pain points [1]. Group 2: Regulatory Framework - The new rules consist of 29 detailed requirements that set clear boundaries for pricing behaviors of platforms and operators, extending the principle of "clear pricing" to digital transactions [1]. - Platforms are mandated to clearly display pricing, unit costs, and shipping fees, as well as to transparently indicate dynamic pricing and additional services [1]. Group 3: Consumer Rights - The rules emphasize the protection of consumer rights by ensuring that consumers are informed about pricing processes and have the right to make choices without being misled [1][2]. - The regulation specifically prohibits platforms from using data and algorithms to set differential pricing for the same goods or services without consumer awareness [2]. Group 4: Market Environment - The new regulations aim to balance market order with the need for innovation in the platform economy, encouraging technological advancements and business model upgrades to enhance service quality [2]. - The regulatory approach combines oversight with the promotion of sustainable development in the platform economy, ensuring a competitive market environment [2]. Group 5: Implementation and Enforcement - The effectiveness of the new rules will depend on robust enforcement and regulatory follow-up to ensure that consumers benefit from the changes [2]. - A fair and trustworthy market transaction environment is essential for the sustainable development of the platform economy [2].