Story perspectives

Trip.com Faces Antitrust Probe, Shares Plunge 6.5%

1/14/2026

Summary

Trip.com Antitrust Probe

The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has initiated an antitrust investigation into Trip.com Group, the country's largest online travel agency.
The probe focuses on alleged market power abuse and monopolistic practices.
Trip.com Group confirmed it will cooperate with the investigation.
Trip.com shares fell 6.5% in Hong Kong after the announcement.
The move signals broader regulatory oversight in China's digital economy and follows prior complaints by industry associations.

Summary

State Council Investigation

The State Council is investigating food-delivery platforms Meituan Dianping and Alibaba Group to curb subsidies and price wars that harm profitability.
The action is part of a broader anti-involution campaign aimed at stabilizing prices and ensuring fair competition.
The solar industry faces price rigging allegations, prompting the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) to review monopolistic practices.
SAMR has received complaints and is engaging with major solar companies to maintain minimum prices.

History

Historical Context

The Sherman Antitrust Act, enacted in 1890, aimed to combat monopolistic practices in the U.S. economy, empowering the government to dismantle corporate giants like Standard Oil in 1911. China's recent investigations into companies like Trip.com and Alibaba reflect a similar commitment to market fairness, potentially reshaping its digital economy and echoing the historical significance of antitrust measures in promoting competition.

1 of 3

Trip.com Antitrust Probe

The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has initiated an antitrust investigation into Trip.com Group, the country's largest online travel agency.
The probe focuses on alleged market power abuse and monopolistic practices.
Trip.com Group confirmed it will cooperate with the investigation.
Trip.com shares fell 6.5% in Hong Kong after the announcement.
The move signals broader regulatory oversight in China's digital economy and follows prior complaints by industry associations.

1 / 3