反内卷不是商量着“不卷” | 反内卷系列评论

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the risks associated with industry self-discipline and price coordination, warning that such actions can lead to potential antitrust violations and market inefficiencies [1][4][5]. Group 1: Industry Competition Dynamics - In many industries, including solar energy, home appliances, automotive manufacturing, and internet services, companies are engaged in "involutionary competition," characterized by price wars, subsidies, and resource depletion, which ultimately harms profitability and innovation [2][3]. - The root cause of involution is an imbalance in competitive mechanisms, where companies sacrifice long-term benefits for short-term market share, leading to excessive competition and potential violations of antitrust laws [2][4]. Group 2: Risks of Price Coordination - As the industry consensus shifts towards anti-involution, some companies are beginning to form price alliances and production coordination under the guise of self-discipline, which poses risks of collusion and antitrust violations [3][4]. - The recent establishment of a platform company for silicon material acquisition in the photovoltaic industry illustrates the potential for coordinated actions that could violate antitrust laws by limiting production and sales [3][5]. Group 3: Legal and Compliance Considerations - The legal framework presents challenges for companies attempting to justify coordinated actions as necessary for economic downturns, as meeting the criteria for exemptions under antitrust laws is complex and difficult [5][6]. - Regulatory bodies have already noted the trend of companies using anti-involution as a cover for collusion, emphasizing that self-discipline should not lead to price-fixing or production limits [5][6]. Group 4: Recommendations for Companies - Companies, especially leading firms, should be cautious of leading price alliances or production agreements under the pretext of market stability, as this could lead to accountability issues [1][6]. - Establishing an antitrust compliance system and internalizing compliance culture is essential for companies to navigate the competitive landscape effectively and avoid regulatory pitfalls [7][8].