Being based in Shanghai results in around 90% of my flights with MU/FM. Rebooking and switching carrier was never an issue.

Recently, while changing domestic flights (2x in a row) , I've noticed that Ctrip now tries to cancel and re-book instead when changing between MU - FM

First time I managed to insist it's one airline with a lengthy discussion on the phone.
Second time there was no time to discuss, so I just accepted the cancelation fee (rmb37) and allowed the agent to book a new ticket at the same price.

It gave me the feeling that indeed Ctrip is focusing on maximizing revenue when they can.

But until your posting, I wasn't aware they also increased ticket prices.