治理“内卷式”竞争！价格法即将修订！

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the public consultation on the draft amendment to the Price Law of the People's Republic of China, highlighting the need for updates to address current economic and social developments [1][2][3]. Group 1: Legislative Background - The Price Law has been in effect since 1998, playing a crucial role in resource allocation, price stability, and protection of consumer and business rights [2]. - The revision of the Price Law is included in the legislative plan of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee for 2023 [3]. Group 2: Key Amendments - The draft amendment consists of 10 articles focusing on three main areas: government pricing, clarification of unfair pricing behavior, and strengthening legal responsibilities for price violations [4]. - In terms of government pricing, the amendment aims to clarify that government guidance prices are not limited to benchmark prices and their fluctuations, allowing for a shift from fixed pricing levels to pricing mechanisms [5]. Group 3: Addressing Unfair Pricing - The draft specifies standards for identifying unfair pricing behaviors, particularly in relation to "involution" in the market [6]. - It includes four main aspects: 1. Improving standards for identifying predatory pricing to regulate market order and combat "involution-style" competition [7]. 2. Enhancing standards for collusion, price gouging, and price discrimination [8]. 3. Prohibiting public enterprises and industry associations from leveraging their influence to enforce bundled sales or charge fees [9]. 4. Strengthening regulations on pricing behaviors of business operators [10]. Group 4: Regulatory Measures - The draft introduces provisions related to "involution," emphasizing that operators must not use data, algorithms, or technology to engage in unfair pricing practices [11]. - It also indicates an increase in penalties for violations of pricing regulations and establishes legal responsibilities for operators who refuse or provide false cost monitoring and investigation materials [11]. - Furthermore, it mandates that government pricing authorities conduct price surveys and cost audits, and gather feedback from consumers and businesses when setting government guidance prices [11]. Group 5: Public Consultation - The public consultation period for the draft amendment is from July 24, 2025, to August 23, 2025, inviting input from various stakeholders [12].