Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the "Regulations on the Supervision and Management of Online Trading Platforms" aims to address long-standing issues faced by merchants and consumers, establishing a fair, transparent, and trustworthy online trading ecosystem starting February 1, 2026 [1] Group 1: Transparency in Platform Rules - The new regulations will enhance the transparency of rule-making and modification processes, requiring platforms to prominently display rules on their homepage and ensure easy access for consumers and merchants [3] - Platforms must publicly solicit opinions from users and merchants before modifying rules, ensuring that reasonable suggestions are considered and documented for at least three years [3] - A communication and consultation mechanism will be established for significant rule changes, promoting collaborative governance rather than unilateral decision-making [3] Group 2: Protection of Membership Rights - The regulations specifically prohibit platforms from unilaterally changing membership rules to impose additional fees or reduce member benefits during the service period [5] - This legal framework aims to prevent practices like those seen in the iQIYI case, where members experienced a significant reduction in expected benefits due to sudden changes in service terms [4][5] Group 3: Fair Pricing Practices - The regulations address the issue of "big data price discrimination," mandating that platforms cannot set different prices for the same product or service under similar conditions without consumer knowledge [7] - Platforms are required to provide evidence of their pricing mechanisms when consumers claim price discrimination, thereby safeguarding consumer rights [7] Group 4: Regulation of Competitive Practices - The regulations aim to curb "involutionary" competition by prohibiting platforms from forcing merchants into unnecessary services or promotional activities, thus protecting merchants' operational autonomy [9] - Specific illegal practices such as "choose one from two" and unreasonable fees are clearly defined, establishing a comprehensive protection system for all stakeholders involved [9] Group 5: Execution of Rules and Appeals - The new regulations introduce a system for executing platform rules, requiring platforms to provide clear reasons and legal bases when taking negative actions against merchants or consumers [10] - A streamlined appeals process will be established, ensuring that merchants and consumers can challenge decisions effectively and receive fair treatment [10]
拒绝暗箱操作,网络交易新规将施:规范“仅退款”,禁大数据杀熟