Associations have key role

The industrial associations should realize they have an important role to play in the market economy, says an editorial in Workers' Daily. The following is an excerpt:

The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) released a statement last week saying that the China branch of the International Ramen Manufactures Association had violated the price law and colluded to manipulate the price of instant noodles.

The NDRC ordered the association to redress its mistakes and make a public explanation as to the negative impact of its action. More harsh punishment is likely as the investigation unfolds.