Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-06-04 11:16Industry Overview - The photovoltaic market is experiencing intensified competition, leading to significant price declines and many companies facing losses upon production commencement due to rapid capacity expansion causing supply-demand mismatches [1][4] - The industry is currently in a deep adjustment phase, with overall operating rates declining and over 140,000 employees laid off across 109 listed photovoltaic companies last year [1] Company Insights - Major companies in the Baotou equipment manufacturing industrial park include Hongyuan New Materials, Baotou Canadian Solar, and Baotou JA Solar, primarily focusing on upstream processes like crystal pulling and slicing [1][5] - Despite claims of maintaining operational rates, some companies report significant reductions in workforce and production lines due to decreased orders, with some factories experiencing shutdowns [1][9] Employee Conditions - Employees report reduced wages and job insecurity, with some stating that salaries have dropped from over 10,000 yuan to as low as 3,000 yuan, reflecting the industry's downturn [2][3] - Workers face strict conditions regarding working hours and pay, with deductions for insufficient attendance, leading to a high turnover rate as employees leave for better opportunities [2][3] Market Dynamics - The operating rates for leading companies in the silicon wafer sector are reported at 50% to 56%, while integrated companies range from 56% to 80%, indicating a general decline in production capacity [5][10] - The overall market demand is expected to decrease, which may lead to further fluctuations in operating rates and continued layoffs in the sector [5][10] Economic Impact - The decline in the photovoltaic industry has adversely affected surrounding businesses, with local commercial areas experiencing reduced foot traffic and sales due to lower employee wages and numbers [12][15] - The ripple effect of production halts is impacting service industries, with many restaurants and shops reporting significant drops in revenue and some even closing down [12][15][16] Future Outlook - Analysts suggest that improving supply-demand dynamics, policy support, and industry self-regulation could help stabilize the industry and employee wages, but short-term solutions remain elusive [16]