Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and complexities surrounding payment terms in the Chinese automotive supply chain, highlighting the inadequacies of recent policies aimed at improving payment practices and the persistent issues faced by suppliers in receiving timely payments [4][19][55]. Group 1: Policy and Industry Response - The China Automotive Industry Association released the "Supplier Payment Norms Initiative" to address payment issues, but the response from the industry has been mixed, with many suppliers still unaware of their rights and the mechanisms available for complaints [4][5][19]. - A survey revealed that nearly half of the suppliers were unaware of the complaint platform established by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and 88.3% of those aware chose not to file complaints despite facing issues [5][7]. Group 2: Payment Terms and Practices - Most domestic automakers fail to meet the mandated two-month payment term, with suppliers reporting average payment periods of around six months, and some extending up to 2.5 years [7][9]. - The survey indicated that 76.5% of suppliers believe that the implementation of the initiative will be difficult, with many expressing skepticism about the willingness of manufacturers to change their practices [18][19]. Group 3: Supplier Experiences - Suppliers reported that smaller companies often face worse payment terms compared to larger firms, with 80% of small suppliers indicating payment periods exceeding six months [12][15]. - The payment methods predominantly used by suppliers include bank acceptance bills and commercial acceptance bills, with cash payments being rare [11][17]. Group 4: Variability Among Different Types of Automakers - Overseas and joint venture automakers generally offer better payment terms compared to state-owned enterprises, with foreign companies averaging a payment cycle of 56 days, while domestic companies average 168 days [30][31]. - Some suppliers noted that while certain state-owned enterprises have improved their payment practices, many private companies remain problematic, with 52.9% of suppliers expressing dissatisfaction with their payment terms [32][33]. Group 5: Structural Issues in Payment Processes - The article highlights a complex payment structure where the actual payment cycle can exceed nine months due to delays in invoice processing and acceptance [20][23]. - Many suppliers reported that the lack of transparency in acceptance processes and arbitrary changes to acceptance standards contribute to prolonged payment cycles [23][25]. Group 6: Financial Instruments and Their Implications - The use of electronic debt certificates (X-chain) has become prevalent, allowing automakers to extend payment periods while suppliers face high costs to access their funds [44][50]. - The article emphasizes that while policies exist to protect suppliers, the enforcement and practical application of these policies remain weak, leading to continued exploitation of suppliers by larger automakers [28][55].

Core Viewpoint - The "60-day payment commitment" initiative among 17 automotive companies continues to evolve, with the China Automotive Industry Association releasing the "Payment Norms Initiative for Automotive OEMs and Suppliers" on September 15, which aims to standardize payment terms and enhance supplier rights [1][3]. Group 1: Initiative Details - The initiative specifies that payment terms should not exceed 60 calendar days from the date of delivery and acceptance by the OEM [3]. - It encourages cash payments or bank acceptance bills, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, to alleviate financial pressure on suppliers [5][6]. - The initiative includes provisions for advance payments based on previous contract prices if pricing agreements are not reached [5]. Group 2: Industry Response - Major automotive companies such as Dongfeng, Changan, and SAIC have committed to implementing the initiative, ensuring supplier rights and stabilizing expectations within the supply chain [6][8]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology emphasized the importance of this initiative for promoting healthy and sustainable development in the automotive industry [8]. Group 3: Market Impact - Following the announcement of the initiative, automotive stocks saw significant gains, with several companies reaching their daily price limits [3]. - In the Hong Kong market, shares of electric vehicle manufacturers like NIO and BYD also experienced notable increases [4]. Group 4: Historical Context and Future Outlook - Since the initial "60-day payment commitment" declaration in June, some companies have already begun to optimize their payment terms, with reports indicating that several firms have successfully implemented the 60-day payment policy [9]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has previously issued guidelines to regulate payment terms in the automotive sector, highlighting the ongoing challenges in achieving compliance across the industry [9][10].