纯碱仍有下行空间

Core Viewpoint - The domestic soda ash industry has entered a downward cycle since 2025, with prices dropping nearly 200 yuan/ton due to oversupply from capacity expansion and a decline in demand from end-user industries like photovoltaic and real estate [1] Group 1: Supply and Capacity Expansion - The domestic soda ash industry experienced a bull market from 2021 to 2024, with profits peaking at over 1500 yuan/ton in 2021. However, a new capacity expansion cycle began in 2023, leading to a bearish market in 2024 [2] - Effective domestic soda ash capacity increased from 30 million tons to 40 million tons, a growth of over 30%. New capacity additions are expected to continue, with 2.1 million tons planned for the first half of 2025 and additional expansions from various companies [2][3] - The industry is transitioning towards lower-cost production methods, with natural soda ash expected to account for about 50% of total capacity, while ammonia-based production is anticipated to decline below 20% [2] Group 2: Demand and Market Conditions - The soda ash industry is facing significant price pressure due to high supply and stagnant or declining demand. As of early June 2025, total inventory levels exceeded 300,000 tons, contributing to downward price pressure [3] - Demand for soda ash is particularly affected by the glass industry, with a notable decline in daily melting capacity for both float glass and photovoltaic glass since July 2024. This decline is expected to continue, further impacting soda ash demand [4] - The real estate sector remains under pressure, with a 17% decrease in completed housing area from January to April 2025, leading to weak glass demand and increased inventory levels [4] Group 3: Cost and Price Outlook - The soda ash price is expected to continue its downward trend, with support levels projected between 1100 and 1150 yuan/ton. The cost structure is shifting downward due to falling raw material prices, including a nearly 70 yuan/ton drop in raw salt prices since 2025 [5][6] - The production cost of soda ash is anticipated to decrease by 170 to 200 yuan/ton compared to the end of 2024, with potential further declines in raw salt and coal prices [5][6] - The theoretical price floor for soda ash could reach between 950 and 1000 yuan/ton in the medium to long term, indicating a challenging market environment [6] Group 4: Market Strategy - The industry is advised to adopt a bearish outlook, monitoring for opportunities to hedge against price declines. Companies should focus on macroeconomic factors and potential production cuts to identify selling opportunities [7]