Half a year after China's auto industry launched its "anti-involution" campaign with a pledge to cap supplier payment terms at 60 days, financial reports reveal a complex picture of progress and persistent challenges.

Key Findings: 1. Payment term reductions: - 70% of suppliers report faster payments, with Q3 showing marked improvement - 5 automakers now maintain sub-100-day payment cycles: Tesla (59 days), GAC Group (76 days), BAIC BluePark (84 days), Great Wall Motors (94 days), and Changan Automobile (98 days) - BAIC BluePark achieved the most significant reduction (25% decrease)

2. Persistent challenges: - 25% of suppliers still face 120+ day receivables - Core bottlenecks exist in three phases: delivery-to-invoice (averaging 1+ month), invoice-to-payment, and bill settlement (up to 6 months) - Electronic debt instruments remain problematic, creating effective 200+ day payment cycles

3. Supplier perspectives: - Many report "no substantive change" despite improved metrics - Small/medium suppliers highlight disproportionate impact from non-cash payments - Secondary suppliers see no benefit from the initiative - Some are shifting to overseas orders for faster payments

4. Industry response: - SAIC Motor, GAC Group, and SERES lead in implementation - GAC established full digital payment tracking - FAW Group now pays SMEs 100% in cash - Tire and battery suppliers show stable or improving metrics

5. Systemic hurdles: - Non-binding nature limits compliance - Automakers face cash flow pressures - Process adjustments require time - Q3 negative cash flow reported by Haima, BAIC BluePark and GAC

The data suggests that while the initiative has driven measurable progress, fundamental supply chain reforms will require more than payment term adjustments. Industry experts anticipate more substantial improvements in 2026 as processes mature.

(Note: This analysis covers 262 auto parts suppliers and 13 major automakers. Investment recommendations are not provided.)