China Starts Antitrust Probe of Trip.com Ahead of Travel Peak

China is investigating Trip.com Group Ltd. over alleged antitrust conduct, taking aim at the country’s dominant online travel platform weeks before millions are expected to criss-cross the world during the Spring Festival holidays.

The State Administration for Market Regulation accused the company of abusing its market position and engaging in monopolistic practices. The powerful agency, which in years past targeted online sector leaders including Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., didn’t offer specifics in a one-line statement on its website. Trip.com said in a statement it will cooperate with the investigation.