Core Viewpoint - The company is facing challenges in the sunscreen market due to slowing demand, increased competition, and adverse weather conditions affecting sales, leading to a decline in performance and pricing adjustments [2][5]. Group 1: Performance Decline and Response Strategies - Starting in the second half of 2024, the sunscreen market demand is expected to slow down, leading to a decrease in the shipment volume of sunscreen agents and a subsequent price reduction [2]. - The increase in inventory at the end of the reporting period is attributed to stockpiling of certain products, while new production lines are still ramping up capacity [2]. - In Q1 2025, the performance decline is expected to worsen due to increased rainy weather in Europe and North America, which negatively impacts the sales of sunscreen products and reduces downstream purchasing demand [2]. - The company is focusing on consolidating its leading position in sunscreen agents, advancing new product breakthroughs, and enhancing research investment in formulations [2]. - Additionally, the company aims to improve its management system, operational efficiency, and cost control while accelerating the construction of overseas bases [2]. Group 2: Market Expansion in Personal Care Ingredients - In Q3 2023, the company successfully launched 12,800 tons/year of amino acid surfactants and 3,000 tons/year of the new anti-dandruff agent pyrithione ethanolamine salt (PO), with initial results in customer certification and promotion [3]. - The company plans to strengthen market development by providing customized solutions to ensure project efficiency and effectiveness [3]. Group 3: Capacity Utilization and Market Competitiveness - The overall capacity utilization rate for cosmetic active ingredients and their raw materials in 2024 is affected by the ramp-up of new production lines [4]. - The company is a major global manufacturer of sunscreen agents, holding over 20% market share, with strong competitiveness in sunscreen and synthetic fragrance sectors [4]. - Core competitive advantages include a rich product structure, innovative R&D, optimized production and quality management, and collaboration with high-quality customers [4]. Group 4: Industry Outlook and Overseas Factory Progress - The global personal care products industry is stabilizing, with intensified competition in the sunscreen market, yet the overall market potential remains significant [5]. - Leading raw material manufacturers with comprehensive systems, international layouts, and stable supply capabilities are expected to further strengthen their advantages [5]. - The construction of the company's personal care products production base in Malaysia is progressing well, with product launches expected in the second half of this year [6]. Group 5: Product Pricing Strategy - The company states that the prices of its main products will follow market trends, and future adjustments will consider overall market conditions [7].
调研速递|科思化学接受全体投资者调研,聚焦业绩下滑与市场布局要点