Ken, just for info.. have heard years ago this happened, in Indonesia.
Such group usually being herded from shop to shop and no stopping for sightseeing. This thing happened in Bali eons ago with Taiwanese Tourist when they start coming to Bali in big numbers.

The group were auctioned by the tour operator to tour guides who bid highest get the group. To recoupe the investment then he (the guide) will take the group to shopping all day long. The shop till you drop things. The guide will earn a fat commission and the tourist will be at the receiving end paying thru their nose for souvenirs, crafts at overcharge price.

Chinese governement I think aware of this practices that is why for places like Indonesia they appoint a consortium of agencies (local and overseas) to handle groups. That is what I heard from friend at the tourism industry.

So if you come accross such group do be carefull. In many case the practice use some hard "strong arm" tactical approach as well to those who "rebel" in the group if you know what I mean.

Hope this contribute a bit..cheers