Core Viewpoint - The urea market is expected to experience a downward price trend in the second half of 2025 due to seasonal demand fluctuations, high inventory levels, and ongoing supply pressures, despite potential short-term rebounds in August and September driven by agricultural demand and export activities [1][13]. Production Capacity and Profitability - In the first half of 2025, the urea industry added 3.51% in production capacity, totaling 309 million tons, with a theoretical capacity increase from 76.7 million tons to 79.39 million tons [2]. - The industry is projected to add another 292 million tons of capacity in the second half of 2025, leading to a total capacity increase of 7.31% for the year [2]. - The profitability of urea production is under pressure, with costs primarily driven by coal and natural gas prices, which account for about 70% of total production costs [2][3]. Cost Analysis - As of June 2025, the production costs for urea varied by production method, with natural gas-based urea costing 1971 CNY/ton, fixed bed process at 1917 CNY/ton, and fluidized bed process at 1478 CNY/ton [3]. - Profit margins for different production methods showed significant variation, with fixed bed and fluidized bed processes experiencing improved margins, while natural gas-based production faced losses [3]. Market Demand Dynamics - Agricultural demand for urea is expected to decline in July due to the seasonal off-peak period, with a potential rebound in August and September driven by fall fertilization and export activities [1][7]. - The overall agricultural demand is supported by the ongoing construction of high-standard farmland, which is projected to increase urea consumption [7][8]. - Industrial demand for urea, particularly from melamine and urea-formaldehyde resin sectors, remains stagnant due to weak real estate market conditions and export challenges [9]. Inventory and Export Policies - Urea port inventories have been rising since May 2025, with expectations of continued accumulation in the third quarter, influenced by export policies and market conditions [10][11]. - The export policy for urea has been clarified, with a total export quota of 2 million tons set for May to October 2025, which may help alleviate some supply pressures [11][12]. Seasonal Trends and Future Outlook - The second half of 2025 is characterized by seasonal demand fluctuations, with expectations of lower production utilization rates due to the agricultural off-season and potential winter heating demands impacting natural gas supply [6][12]. - Overall, the urea market is anticipated to remain oversupplied, with price pressures expected to persist unless significant changes occur in export policies or seasonal storage strategies [13].
供大于求格局未改 尿素价格中枢仍将下移
Qi Huo Ri Bao·2025-07-30 00:24