Core Viewpoint - The report from Guotai Junan initiates coverage on Western Cement (02233) with a "Buy" rating, projecting net profits for 2025-2027 to be 1.143 billion, 1.422 billion, and 2.015 billion yuan respectively, with EPS of 0.21, 0.26, and 0.37 yuan [1] Group 1: Company Overview - Western Cement is recognized as a leader in the cement industry in Shaanxi, actively expanding overseas [2] - The largest shareholder, Mr. Zhang, holds approximately 32.3% of shares, while Conch Cement holds 29.0% [1] - By the end of 2024, the company is expected to sell 15.74 million tons of cement domestically, generating approximately 5.2 billion yuan in revenue, and 4.03 million tons overseas, generating about 3.2 billion yuan in revenue [1] Group 2: Market Conditions - Domestic cement production in China has been declining since 2022, with a rapid decrease in demand leading to falling prices [2] - The company began its overseas expansion strategy in 2020, establishing its first production line in Mozambique and expanding to four countries by the end of 2024 [2] Group 3: Strategic Moves - The company reported a high gross profit of 288 yuan per ton overseas, significantly higher than the domestic gross profit of 42 yuan per ton [3] - In June 2025, the company plans to sell its Xinjiang cement assets for 1.65 billion yuan, which is expected to alleviate debt pressure and support overseas expansion projects [3]
国泰海通:首予西部水泥(02233)“增持”评级 目标价3.73港元