Internet platforms in China face new pricing guidelines
The draft regulations signal Beijing’s latest effort to tighten oversight of its booming digital economy while addressing growing concerns over fairness in online commerce.
China has unveiled draft rules to rein in pricing practices on internet platforms, responding to long-standing complaints from both merchants and consumers about unfair or misleading costs. The proposed measures, announced by the National Development and Reform Commission on 23 August, are designed to make pricing more transparent and equitable across the country’s vast digital marketplace.
The draft regulations would require platforms and merchants to follow standardised pricing guidelines, clearly disclose their rules, and notify users promptly of any fee changes. Authorities in China say prices should be set and adjusted through standardised contracts or formal orders to reduce arbitrary or hidden charges.
The move comes after repeated allegations that major platforms have manipulated prices to their advantage, leaving consumers and smaller sellers at a disadvantage. By tightening oversight, Beijing hopes to rebuild trust in online commerce while ensuring a fairer playing field.
The draft will remain open for public comment for one month, allowing businesses and citizens to weigh in before the measures are finalised.
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