21社论丨规范价格行为，促进平台经济健康发展

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the newly drafted "Internet Platform Pricing Behavior Rules" aimed at regulating pricing practices among internet platforms to ensure fair competition and protect consumer rights in a mature platform economy [1][2]. Summary by Sections Introduction to the Rules - The "Behavior Rules" provide clear guidelines for operators on lawful pricing, price marking, and competitive behavior to foster a fair market environment and promote healthy development of the platform economy [1]. Current State of the Internet Economy - The internet economy has matured over nearly 30 years, with a stable competitive landscape among large platforms. Daily consumer activities are highly internet-based, leveraging scale and network effects, particularly in data, traffic, and algorithms [1]. Issues with Pricing Practices - Unregulated competition, including algorithmic pricing and price wars, can harm consumers and businesses. The phenomenon of "price discrimination" based on user data is a significant concern, prompting the need for regulatory measures [2]. Specific Provisions in the Rules - Article 15 prohibits differential pricing based on consumer data without their knowledge, while Article 16 forbids collusion among platform operators to manipulate market prices. The revised pricing law draft emphasizes that operators cannot engage in unfair pricing practices using data and algorithms [2]. Legal Responsibilities and Clarifications - There is a call for clearer regulations regarding the legal responsibilities of platform operators and pricing algorithm service providers in cases of disputes, ensuring accountability in algorithmic pricing practices [2]. Competition and Pricing Strategies - The rules discourage low-price competition tactics that disrupt market order, such as restricting traffic or forcing operators into price wars. Compliance with price marking standards and transparency in promotional pricing is mandated [3][4]. Legal Framework and Market Governance - Similar provisions across various laws, including the pricing law and anti-monopoly law, highlight the prohibition of selling below cost to maintain market order. Clarifying these overlapping regulations can enhance market governance efficiency [4].