煤炭的“韧”与“实” | 投研报告

Core Viewpoint - The coal industry in China is experiencing a stable growth in production, with domestic coal output showing a slight increase while imports are significantly declining. The overall supply is entering a low growth phase, and the industry is expected to shift focus from increasing production to maintaining stable supply in the coming years [2][4]. Supply and Production - In the first ten months of 2025, China's raw coal production reached 3.97 billion tons, a year-on-year increase of 1.5%, with growth expected to remain within 1.5% for the entire year [2][3]. - The regional production structure shows a mixed trend: Shanxi is experiencing a recovery with a growth of 3.9%, while Inner Mongolia is seeing a slight decline of 1.1% [2][3]. - Coal imports from January to October 2025 totaled 388 million tons, a decrease of 11% year-on-year, primarily due to narrowing overseas coal price advantages and adjustments in the international shipping market [2][3]. Future Production Trends - The coal supply increment is limited, with the eastern and central regions expected to enter a phase of production decline. By 2035, the central region is projected to exit approximately 70 million tons of capacity [3]. - The coal production forecast indicates that by 2030, output will remain above 4.1 billion tons, but will enter a rapid decline thereafter due to resource depletion [3]. Consumption and Demand - Coal consumption is still on the rise, with total consumption in the first nine months of 2025 reaching 3.57 billion tons, a year-on-year increase of 0.5% [4][6]. - The power sector remains the main driver of coal demand, accounting for 63.5% of total consumption, while the chemical industry is the fastest-growing sector [4][5]. - Non-electric demand is also growing, with coal consumption in the chemical sector increasing by 17.4% year-on-year [6]. Price Trends - Coal prices are expected to show a "V-shaped" trend in 2025, with the average price of 5500 kcal thermal coal at Qinhuangdao Port at 690 yuan/ton, down 19% year-on-year [7]. - Policy guidance and cost support are anticipated to keep prices within a reasonable range, with the price center for 2026 projected to be around 730-760 yuan/ton for thermal coal [7][8]. Investment Opportunities - The coal sector is currently undervalued, with potential for upward adjustment as the Producer Price Index (PPI) turns positive. The sector is seen as having long-term investment value due to its high cash flow and dividend characteristics [8][10]. - Companies such as China Shenhua, Shaanxi Coal, and others are highlighted as stable investment opportunities, while those with growth potential and cost-effectiveness are also recommended [10][11].