Zheng Quan Shi Bao·2025-07-08 18:26Core Viewpoint - The lithium battery industry is currently facing significant challenges due to intense price competition, a consequence of previous aggressive capacity expansion, leading to a consensus on the need for "anti-involution" strategies to stabilize the market and improve profitability [1][2][3] Industry Challenges - The lithium battery supply chain is experiencing continuous price declines, approaching cost lines, resulting in widespread survival difficulties for companies [1][2] - A significant number of listed companies in the lithium battery sector reported profit declines, with 65 out of 104 companies experiencing net profit drops last year, and over 60 companies seeing year-on-year gross margin reductions [1][2] Causes of Involution - The current "involution" in the lithium battery industry is primarily driven by low-price competition, stemming from the overcapacity created by previous years' aggressive expansion [2] - Local governments' incentives for lithium battery projects have led to an oversupply situation, with many companies now facing a market where demand does not meet the inflated production capacity [2] Proposed Solutions - Industry associations have called for a shift in focus from price competition to quality and innovation, advocating for a coordinated approach to enhance the industry's health [3] - Accelerating supply-side reforms and promoting the exit of outdated capacities are seen as immediate solutions to address the supply-demand mismatch [3][4] Market Adjustments - Some companies are beginning to reassess their expansion plans, with notable cancellations of previously planned projects, indicating a more cautious approach to capacity growth [4] - The government is encouraged to play a regulatory role to prevent blind investments and manage capacity effectively from the outset [5] Shift to Value Competition - There is a growing consensus that the industry should transition from "price competition" to "value competition," emphasizing technological innovation as a key driver for future success [6][7] - Leading companies are focusing on developing advanced battery technologies to enhance product competitiveness and profitability [7][8] Technological Innovations - The industry is witnessing rapid advancements in battery materials and technologies, with companies like Ningde Times and EVE Energy launching innovative products that improve performance and safety [8][9] - The introduction of stringent safety standards is expected to further elevate industry entry barriers and accelerate the exit of underperforming capacities [9]