Core Insights - The express delivery industry in China experienced significant growth in volume, with July 2025 seeing 16.4 billion parcels delivered, a year-on-year increase of 15.1%, and a total of 112.05 billion parcels from January to July, up 18.7% year-on-year [1] - The growth is driven by the trend towards smaller packages, e-commerce promotions, and convenient return policies, surpassing the postal administration's forecast of over 8% growth for the entire year [1] - Major players in the e-commerce express delivery sector, such as YTO, Yunda, and Shentong, reported year-on-year volume increases of 20.8%, 7.6%, and 11.9% respectively in July 2025, with year-to-date increases of 21.6%, 15.1%, and 19.3% [1] - SF Express led the industry with a 33.7% year-on-year increase in volume for July 2025, attributed to its operational strategies and incentives for frontline staff [1] - The Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation announced new VAT policies for express delivery services, effective immediately, which will impact revenue collection for express companies [1] - Industry average revenue per parcel decreased to 7.36 yuan in July 2025, down 5.33% year-on-year and 1.76% month-on-month, influenced by the trend towards smaller packages and ongoing price wars [1] - However, there are indications of potential price recovery in August 2025 due to a shift away from aggressive competition [1][2] Company Insights - Key players in the express delivery sector include ZTO Express, SF Holding, JD Logistics, and YTO International Express, all of which are listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange [3] - The report from Guohai Securities indicates that franchise express companies may see performance recovery in the context of reduced competition [1][2]