China: State Administration for Market Regulation adopted outline on measures to regulate online trading platforms

On 5 March 2025, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) announced the measures to regulate online trading platforms, focusing on fair competition, merchant rights, and consumer protection. The measures address issues including platforms’ refund-only policies, automatic price-following mechanisms, and complex fee structures, requiring greater transparency and fairness. It also introduces oversight of live e-commerce, targeting false advertising and counterfeit goods, while mandating clearer algorithm rules to prevent price discrimination and protect gig workers.