价格算法合谋的反垄断规制——事前管控与事后追责

Anti-monopoly Regulation of Price Algorithm Collusion--Ex Ante Control and Ex Post Accountability

计算机算法的发展为竞争者达成价格合谋提供了便利。传统的反垄断政策在规制某些算法合谋时不再有效。算法合谋有四种形式:信使类合谋、轴辐类合谋、代理类合谋和自主类合谋,分析了其形成的条件、运行机制,并采用经济学的方法,从成本收益和效率的角度说明了算法合谋的治理应当是事前管控与事后追责双管齐下;在具体的反垄断规制措施上,执法机关应当秉持竞争优先,慎用管制的理念,谨慎使用算法透明原则以保护创新和产权,强化算法合谋的事后问责,加大合谋的处罚力度。

The development of computer algorithms has facilitated price collusion among competitors.The traditional anti-monopoly policy is no longer effective in regulating the collusion of some algorithms.There are four forms of algorithmic collusion:messenger conspiracy,hub and spoke conspiracy,agent conspiracy and autonomous conspiracy.The conditions and operating mechanism of algorithmic collusion are analyzed.From the perspective of cost benefit and efficiency,it is illustrated that the governance of algorithmic collusion should be a combination of pre-control and post-accountability.In terms of specific anti-monopoly regulation measures,law enforcement agencies should adhere to the concept of competition first,prudently use the regulation,cautiously use the algorithm transparency principle to protect innovation and property rights,strengthen the post-facto accountability of algorithm collusion,and increase the punishment of collusion.