Befar(SH:601678) 智通财经网·2025-10-29 06:24Core Viewpoint - The chemical industry is undergoing transformation, prompting several A-share listed companies to seek a secondary listing platform in Hong Kong, with Binhu Chemical Group being one of the latest to submit its application [1][2]. Company Overview - Binhu Chemical Group, established in 1968, is a comprehensive chemical group and the largest producer of various chemical products in China, including granular caustic soda and trichloroethylene, based on 2024 revenue [2]. - The company operates in three main segments: chlor-alkali chemicals, C3 and C4 chemicals, and wet electronic chemicals, with a diversified product structure that includes caustic soda and epoxy propylene [3][6]. Financial Performance - Binhu Chemical Group's revenue for 2022, 2023, and 2024 was 8.892 billion, 7.306 billion, and 10.228 billion yuan, respectively, while profits were 1.203 billion, 399 million, and 217 million yuan, showing a decline in profitability [2]. - The gross margin decreased from 26.5% in 2022 to 6.4% in 2024, indicating significant pressure on profitability [2]. Business Segments - The chlor-alkali chemicals segment, which is the core business, has seen revenue decline from 8.073 billion yuan in 2022 to 6.115 billion yuan in 2024, with a gross margin drop from 24.2% to 14.7% due to falling prices of key products like epoxy propylene [6][7]. - The C3 and C4 chemicals segment has become the main revenue driver, contributing 3.487 billion yuan in the first half of 2025, surpassing the chlor-alkali segment for the first time [7]. - The wet electronic chemicals segment has struggled, with revenues remaining below 1% of total revenue, indicating challenges in scaling this new business [7]. Industry Trends - The chlor-alkali chemicals market in China is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.7% in production capacity from 2024 to 2029, reflecting a slowdown compared to previous years [8]. - The average price of chlor-alkali chemicals has seen fluctuations, with a notable decline in 2023 due to reduced demand and increased supply, although future stabilization is anticipated [9]. - The epoxy propylene market is also expected to slow, with a projected average price decrease from 10,700 yuan per ton to 7,900 yuan, indicating a negative CAGR of 7.3% [10]. Strategic Outlook - Binhu Chemical Group's dual-platform strategy of A+H listings aims to optimize capital structure and enhance competitiveness amid industry challenges [11]. - The company's ability to balance short-term profit pressures with long-term strategic investments will be crucial for sustainable growth in the evolving market landscape [11].