Core Viewpoint - The Chinese food delivery market is experiencing "involutionary" competition, where platforms and merchants are increasing investments without significant improvements in overall market efficiency, leading to resource misallocation and waste [1][2]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The food delivery industry exhibits typical network economy characteristics, where larger platforms can reduce average delivery costs through increased order and rider density, but this leads to a "subsidy arms race" among competitors [2][3]. - Recent estimates indicate that daily order volume in the food delivery market has peaked at 140 million, significantly up from 100 million year-on-year, with a notable shift towards lower-priced items like beverages [3][4]. Group 2: Economic Theories - The "lemon market" theory explains how information asymmetry leads consumers to rely on price as a primary decision factor, resulting in a market distortion where low-quality offerings prevail [4][5]. - The "disease of cost disease" theory highlights how excessive reliance on subsidies distorts market competition, leading to resource misallocation and inhibiting innovation and quality improvements [6][7]. Group 3: Challenges for Small Merchants - Small merchants face a "prisoner's dilemma" in the price war, where participating may yield short-term sales but create long-term low-price expectations, making it difficult to return to reasonable pricing [7][8]. - The competitive pressure forces small merchants to cut costs, often compromising quality and service, which can damage brand reputation and customer loyalty over time [7][8]. Group 4: Social Costs - The negative impacts of "involutionary" competition extend beyond business, leading to irrational consumption patterns and potential health issues due to increased intake of sugary beverages [9]. - Employment quality is declining as businesses reduce labor costs, affecting workers' rights and job security, while overall market resources are wasted in unproductive competition [9][10]. Group 5: Path to Resolution - To break the cycle of "involutionary" competition, the industry needs to focus on infrastructure improvements and regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable practices rather than relying solely on price subsidies [10][11]. - Enhancing operational efficiency through better logistics and inventory management, along with fostering innovation and quality service, is essential for long-term industry health [10][11].