智通财经网·2025-08-12 06:45Group 1 - The demand for architectural glass is expected to remain high, supported by urban renewal and government subsidies stimulating renovation needs, which will positively impact float glass demand [1] - The renovation demand for second-hand housing is anticipated to continue growing, as properties built after 2005 reach 20 years of age, leading to increased glass usage in new developments [1] - The window-to-wall ratio in new residential and commercial buildings is increasing, further driving the demand for glass [1] Group 2 - The photovoltaic glass sector is experiencing a supply-demand imbalance, with rapid capacity expansion since 2021 leading to price pressures and potential reductions in production due to profitability concerns [2] - The apparent consumption of soda ash is projected to grow by 13.49% year-on-year in 2024, reaching 35.23 million tons, despite potential slowdowns in demand due to losses in the photovoltaic glass sector [2] - The soda ash industry faces significant pressure from new capacity, with several projects underway, including a 2.8 million ton natural soda ash capacity addition by Boyuan Chemical [3] Group 3 - The cost of production for different soda ash manufacturing processes shows that only the natural soda process remains profitable, with costs of 1,246, 1,395, and 679 RMB per ton for the Leblanc, ammonia-soda, and natural soda processes respectively [3] - The U.S. dominates the global soda ash market due to its abundant natural soda resources and advanced production technology, holding 99% of the world's natural soda resources and accounting for 50% of global trade [3] - The natural soda process is expected to emerge as a key player in the soda ash industry due to its lower production costs and competitive advantage [3]