China: Antitrust guidelines for auto sector in the works

The first draft of an antitrust guideline for the automobile sector is expected to be finished at the end of October, according to the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

In addition to policy guidelines on monopoly violations, the draft, to be reviewed by the Anti-Monopoly Commission under the State Council by June next year, will also cover price-fixing violations by car makers selling products online.

With the rise of online retailers such as Alibaba and JD.com, consumers are looking for better deals online, and cars are no exception. This has caused controversy as it is unclear what is classed as fair play.

Concerns abound over the possibility that websites will facilitate price fixing, and, thus, impede market fairness.

Full content: China Daily

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