Taking the right steps for a transparent auto market

Antitrust probes will help create new framework for car and parts sales in China

The car market has been subject to heightened antitrust scrutiny in China since early this year. Four BMW dealers were fined 1.63 million yuan ($265,000) on Wednesday for deceptive pricing and price fixing. The first fines on dealers may seem trivial, but the impact should not be underestimated.

Official source revealed that penalties on horizontal and/or vertical restrictions by 12 Japanese parts suppliers, FAW-Volkswagen's Audi division and Fiat's Chrysler will be rendered before long. Investigations into a number of other enterprises are ongoing.