Core Insights - The chromium salt market has experienced a significant price increase, with a monthly rise of approximately 24% since the fourth quarter of the year [2][4] - Major players like Zhenhua Co. have raised prices multiple times, with a cumulative increase of 14,000 yuan/ton, while Sichuan Yinhe Chemical Co. announced a price hike of 5,000 yuan/ton starting November 10 [2][4] - The price surge is attributed to a mismatch in supply and demand, tightening upstream resources, strict environmental regulations, and rapidly growing downstream demand [2][5] Industry Overview - Chromium is primarily found in the form of chromite, with global resources concentrated in South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Zimbabwe. China accounts for about 45% of the world's chromium salt production [3] - As of November 11, the price of metallic chromium reached 83,000 yuan/ton, reflecting a year-to-date increase of approximately 38% [4] - The supply-demand imbalance is expected to worsen, with projections indicating a shortfall of over 70,000 tons for chromium and 300,000 tons for chromium salts by 2028, representing a gap of over 30% [5] Company Developments - Zhenhua Co. is actively participating in the bankruptcy restructuring of Xinjiang Shenhong Group and other companies, investing 200 million yuan to acquire 100% equity post-restructuring [6] - The restructuring aims to enhance Zhenhua's business channels and promote the integration and upgrade of the chromium salt industry towards higher quality and efficiency [6] - Zhenhua Co. is currently the largest producer of chromium chemicals and vitamin K3 globally, positioning itself to capitalize on industry opportunities [6]
供需错配加剧 金属铬再度涨价