Research on the Antitrust Regulation of Algorithmic Price Discrimination

Business operators, failing to fulfill their due social responsibilities, abuse consumer data to implement algorithmic price discrimination. There is academic debate regarding whether the outcome of algorithmic price discrimination enhances total social welfare or harms economic efficiency, and whether the efficiency gains can compensate for the damages caused. The ambiguity surrounding its harmfulness makes it difficult for the law to establish comprehensive regulations against algorithmic price discrimination. This paper clarifies the theoretical basis that implementing algorithmic price discrimination may lead to consequences such as depriving consumers of their right to fair trade and right to know, and harming healthy competition. It analyzes existing regulations on algorithmic price discrimination, aiming to address current issues including the lack of a targeted preventive system, vague identification standards, and inadequate remedies and liability allocation for such discrimination. The ultimate goal is to construct a sound regulatory system for algorithmic price discrimination.