China to conclude Trip.com antitrust probe with potential billions in fines
China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) is expected to conclude its antitrust investigation into Trip.com, the country's leading online travel service provider, as early as this week, according to sources. The probe, launched in January, alleges Trip.com abused its dominant market position and engaged in monopolistic practices. Potential fines range from 2 billion yuan ($295 million) to 6 billion yuan, based on up to 10% of the company's previous year's sales under China's anti-monopoly law. Trip.com has not commented, and SAMR could not be reached. The verdict marks a significant move in China's ongoing antitrust crackdown on tech firms.
Key facts
- SAMR expected to conclude Trip.com antitrust probe as early as Monday.
- Investigation launched in January 2025.
- Allegations include abuse of dominant market position and monopolistic practices.
- Potential fines between 2 billion yuan ($295 million) and 6 billion yuan.
- Fines based on up to 10% of previous year's sales under anti-monopoly law.
- Trip.com did not respond to request for comment.
- SAMR could not be reached for comment.
- Probe part of broader Chinese antitrust enforcement.
Entities
Institutions
- State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR)
- Trip.com
- State Administration for Market Regulation
Locations
- China
- Hong Kong