Pricing Scandal

Beijing Times

January 28, 2011

China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) recently said there was fraudulent conduct in pricing and labeling in a number of Carrefour and Wal-Mart stores in some cities. NDRC has asked the relevant local pricing authorities to correct the situation and impose fines.

The popularity of the two international retailing giants is in sharp contrast to these fraudulent operations, which is severely affecting their credibility.  

Given their good business practice history, many people wonder why they would operate in this way in China.

For a long time, Carrefour and Wal-Mart have been given favorable polices by the Chinese Government . Such a favorable business environment is making them increasingly arrogant. Meanwhile, the high cost of safeguarding consumers' rights deters individual consumers from taking action.

Suspend Toll Fees

Beijing News

February 2, 2011

During Chinese Spring Festival, vehicles were allowed to use highways without paying toll fees in some provinces. However, this favorable policy only lasted 48 hours.

Besides causing delays, charging highway toll fees also increases the cost of the passenger transport during the Spring Festival. Many migrant workers complain that the bus fare in recent years has soared threefold. One of the main reasons is the high toll fees.

Putting a hold on highway toll fees during the Spring Festival will benefit both the people and the state. So, the government should put this on the policy agenda as soon as possible. To make sure the policy is implemented fairly, there should be a national unified law. This policy should also apply to other holidays when transportation is at a peak.