Dealers’ Inventories Decline in February as China’s Auto Sales Pick Up
- THE CHINA NOW
- Mar 5
- 2 min read

Summary
Chinese auto dealers' inventories dropped in February, mainly due to efforts to clear stock before the Chinese New Year and adjustments in vehicle procurement pace.
The Vehicle Inventory Alert Index (VIA) for dealers fell to 56.9% in February from 64.1% a year earlier, indicating a recovery in car sales.
Price cuts and promotions, including Tesla's largest-ever discount on the Model 3 series, boosted market recovery, but dealers are still facing tight cash flow and high operational risks.
In February, Chinese auto dealers saw a significant drop in their inventories, reflecting a shift in the market dynamics. The Vehicle Inventory Alert Index (VIA), which tracks the balance of supply and demand at dealerships, dropped to 56.9%, a decline from 64.1% last year and 62.3% in January. The reduction in stock was primarily driven by efforts to clear inventory ahead of the Chinese New Year holiday and a strategic adjustment in vehicle procurement pace.