21世纪经济报道·2025-06-11 23:26Core Viewpoint - The collective commitment of domestic automotive companies to unify supplier payment terms to within 60 days is a response to the "anti-involution" policy and aims to stabilize the industry while complying with the new regulations effective June 1, 2025 [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Context - The rapid development of China's new energy vehicle (NEV) industry has led to continuous price reductions to compete with fuel vehicles, negatively impacting upstream suppliers who bear the cost of these price cuts [1]. - The average accounts payable turnover days for 16 listed Chinese automotive companies is estimated to be 182 days in 2024, significantly longer than the 60 days maintained by 14 international automotive companies [2]. Group 2: Financial Implications - The profit margin of the Chinese automotive industry is projected to decline from 4.3% in 2024 to 3.9% in Q1 2025, which is below the average level of the manufacturing sector [3]. - Companies with high accounts payable ratios and extended payment terms face increased risks of losses from price competition, which could lead to cash flow issues and impact upstream suppliers [3]. Group 3: Regulatory and Structural Issues - The current self-regulation and corporate commitments lack sufficient effectiveness and enforcement, as some companies may still pressure suppliers to lower prices or absorb costs that should be borne by the automakers [4]. - Long-term solutions to the issue of extended payment terms require legal and systematic approaches, including stricter legislation against delayed payments and better quality regulation of components and materials [4].