治理“内卷”进行时

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the issue of "involution" in various industries, particularly in the automotive sector, where excessive competition leads to low profit margins despite high production and sales volumes [1][11][30]. Group 1: Involution in Industries - The automotive industry's profit margin in Q1 2024 was only 3.9%, contrasting sharply with the industry's vibrant public image and record production and sales [1]. - The Chinese automotive industry is experiencing a decline in profitability due to chaotic price wars, which are a manifestation of "involution" [1][15]. - Other sectors such as photovoltaic, lithium batteries, and express delivery are also suffering from similar "involution" issues, leading to widespread concern [1][11]. Group 2: Causes of Involution - "Involution" is characterized by competition that does not lead to growth, often resulting in inefficiencies and resource wastage [2][5]. - Factors contributing to "involution" include local government policies that encourage unhealthy competition, supply-demand imbalances, and inadequate legal frameworks [6][22]. - The phenomenon is exacerbated by companies engaging in price wars to maintain market share, even at the cost of profitability [5][20]. Group 3: Impact of Involution - Excessive competition leads to resource wastage and hinders innovation, as companies focus on survival rather than development [3][4]. - The manufacturing sector, particularly in LED lighting and other industries, faces significant challenges due to low-price competition, which discourages investment in research and development [3][4]. - The automotive industry's low profit margins also negatively impact upstream suppliers, such as steel manufacturers, creating a ripple effect throughout the supply chain [16]. Group 4: Government and Industry Response - The central government has recognized the urgency of addressing "involution" and has called for comprehensive measures to regulate competition and promote healthy market practices [11][12]. - Various government departments are implementing policies to combat "involution," including stricter regulations on government procurement and industry standards [12][13]. - Industry associations are advocating for self-regulation and the establishment of fair competition practices to mitigate the effects of "involution" [14][30]. Group 5: Future Directions - Companies are encouraged to innovate and shift from "stock competition" to "incremental creation" to escape the cycle of "involution" [20][21]. - The government is focusing on optimizing industrial layouts and preventing the expansion of outdated capacities to foster a healthier competitive environment [26][27]. - Strengthening intellectual property protections and ensuring fair competition are essential steps to combat the adverse effects of "involution" [29][30].