Zheng Quan Shi Bao·2025-06-22 17:55Core Viewpoint - The lithium battery industry is experiencing a surge in overseas investment plans from various manufacturers, driven by increasing domestic competition and the need for localized supply chains in foreign markets [1][2]. Group 1: Overseas Investment Plans - Companies like Zhongke Electric, Tianci Materials, and Rongbai Technology have announced significant overseas investment projects, indicating a trend of "going out" in the lithium battery supply chain [1][2]. - Zhongke Electric plans to invest up to 8 billion yuan in Oman for a lithium-ion battery anode material base with an annual capacity of 200,000 tons [2]. - Tianci Materials is set to invest approximately 2.8 million USD in Morocco for an integrated project producing 150,000 tons of electrolyte and key raw materials [2]. - Rongbai Technology and Xinzhou Bang have also revealed overseas investment plans, with Rongbai planning a 1.705 billion yuan facility in Poland and Xinzhou Bang investing up to 2.6 million USD in Malaysia [2]. Group 2: Market Potential and Demand - The penetration rate of new energy vehicles in China is projected to reach 38.9% in 2024, while major automotive production countries have significantly lower rates, indicating substantial growth potential in overseas markets [3]. - The implementation of various policies in the U.S. and EU is increasing the demand for localized supply chains, prompting lithium battery companies to accelerate overseas capacity building [3]. Group 3: Production and Profitability - Companies like CATL and EVE Energy are beginning to see profitability from their overseas operations, with CATL's German factory achieving breakeven and starting to generate profits [6]. - EVE Energy's first overseas battery base in Malaysia commenced production in February 2024, while other companies like Longpan Technology and Rongbai Technology are also reporting successful overseas operations [5][6][8]. Group 4: Challenges and Strategies - Despite the positive signals, the overall progress of overseas investments remains slow due to higher costs, funding needs, and longer return periods compared to domestic operations [9][10]. - Companies are exploring various financing options, including listings in Hong Kong, to support their overseas expansion [9]. - Local market analysis and understanding of customer needs are crucial for successful overseas operations, as evidenced by the need for stable customer orders to support production [10]. Group 5: Localization and Cultural Integration - The success of overseas operations is heavily dependent on local integration, including navigating local regulations, labor policies, and cultural differences [10][11]. - Companies like Longpan Technology are actively working on local talent development and communication strategies to enhance operational efficiency in foreign markets [10][11].