Core Viewpoint - The domestic photomask industry is currently lagging behind, but downstream demand growth is driving the development of the photomask sector [1][2]. Industry Overview - Photomasks are critical materials in the microelectronics manufacturing process, used to transfer circuit designs onto substrates or wafers through exposure [2]. - The global photomask market has been growing steadily, reaching a size of $5.2 billion by 2022 [2]. - The photomask industry exhibits a counter-cyclical property to the panel industry, with photomask companies experiencing revenue growth during panel downturns due to increased new product development efforts by panel manufacturers [3]. Market Dynamics - The semiconductor photomask market is dominated by American and Japanese companies, with Intel, Samsung, and TSMC accounting for 65% of the market share in 2019 [3]. - Domestic photomask companies face challenges due to reliance on foreign imports for upstream equipment and materials, and limited market share in the midstream manufacturing sector [2][3]. Strategic Recommendations - Long-term development for domestic photomask companies requires acquisitions, talent acquisition, and strengthening R&D capabilities to catch up with overseas competitors [4]. - The shift of panel and semiconductor production capacity to mainland China presents a geographical advantage for domestic companies [4]. Notable Companies - Qingyi Optoelectronics (688138.SH): One of the largest domestic photomask suppliers, achieving breakthroughs in customer expansion [5]. - Luvi Optoelectronics (688401.SH): Leading in G11 panel lines, possessing core photomask manufacturing technology [6]. - Longtu Photomask (688721.SH): A leading semiconductor photomask manufacturer, covering mainstream process nodes [7]. - Wuxi Disi: A photomask manufacturing enterprise under China Resources Microelectronics, with leading technology [8]. - Haoya Optical: Jointly established a photomask subsidiary with BOE, with growth potential [9].