For multinational car companies operating in China, the euphoria from the biggest ever automotive boom in industrial history is finally being tempered by some unexpected risks, most notably a controversial investigation by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) into allegedly anti-competitive behaviour by Audi, Mercedes-Benz and other brands.
The investigations have so far resulted in fines that are peanuts in comparison to the vast profits that foreign automakers have enjoyed over recent years – and continue to enjoy.
In July, a joint venture between Volkswagen unit Audi and state-owned First Auto Works was ordered to pay $41m for alleged violations of China’s 2008 Anti-Monopoly Law. This compares with reported operating profits of $12.2bn for VW’s joint ventures in China (its other is with SAIC Motor) last year.