智通财经网·2025-05-07 01:49Core Viewpoint - The water price reform plan in Guangzhou will take effect on June 1, 2025, addressing the long-standing cost pressures faced by local water supply companies and potentially catalyzing similar reforms in other cities [1][2] Summary by Sections Water Price Adjustment Details - The new pricing scheme will increase residential water prices to 2.55, 3.82, and 7.65 CNY per ton for the first, second, and third tiers, representing increases of 29%, 29%, and 93% respectively compared to the current rates [2] - Non-residential water prices will rise to 4.40 CNY per ton, reflecting a 27% increase [2] Financial Performance of Water Supply Companies - Guangzhou's water supply companies have faced continuous losses, with profits dropping from 333 million CNY in 2017 to a loss of 334 million CNY in 2023, excluding other income [2] - The current water pricing has not changed for over 12 years, leading to a ranking of 28th among 36 major cities in terms of residential water prices [2] Cost Transmission Mechanism - The lack of a smooth cost transmission mechanism is identified as a core reason for the declining profitability of Guangzhou's water supply companies [3] - The implementation of new management measures in 2021 aims to enhance the market-oriented nature of water pricing and establish a regulatory cycle for pricing adjustments every three years [3] Historical Context and Future Implications - Historical data indicates that price adjustments in major cities can catalyze reforms in other regions, with recent adjustments in cities like Shanghai, Nanjing, and Shenzhen [4] - As of April 2025, 39 cities have adjusted their water prices since the new management measures were introduced, indicating a trend towards improving the long-term returns of the water supply industry [4] Investment Recommendations - The ongoing improvements in water pricing policies and mechanisms are expected to benefit water utility assets significantly, with recommendations for companies such as China Water Affairs, Yuehai Investment, and others [5]