化工行业集中检修期到来！这些品种基本面有变？

Core Insights - The chemical industry is experiencing a significant differentiation in maintenance schedules due to profit declines and overcapacity, breaking the traditional maintenance rhythm typically seen in the second and third quarters [1][2] - The maintenance ratio this year is notably higher than in previous years, directly linked to supply surplus caused by rapid capacity growth in certain products [1][2] Group 1: Maintenance Trends - The traditional maintenance period for the petrochemical industry is usually concentrated in the second and third quarters, with the fourth quarter expected to see increased operational loads; however, this year, profit declines have disrupted this pattern [1] - PX is one of the few products increasing operational loads despite the overall trend, with its operational load at a near five-year high due to improved fundamentals and favorable production profits [1] - In contrast, PTA, ethylene glycol, and styrene have seen operational loads decrease due to profit pressures, with PTA's operational load dropping to a lower-than-average level for the past five years [1][2] Group 2: Ethylene Glycol and Other Products - Ethylene glycol's maintenance logic is complex, with operational loads dropping from high levels due to maintenance of ethylene-based facilities, followed by a new wave of maintenance due to profit declines in gas-based facilities [2] - Seasonal maintenance patterns are observed across various chemical products, with significant maintenance occurring in methanol, PP, and PE, while PTA has seen increased maintenance and unplanned outages [2] Group 3: Profitability and Market Dynamics - Despite a decrease in PTA's operational load since November, its processing margin remains in the loss zone, indicating an imbalance in profit distribution within the industry [3] - New capacity in ethylene glycol has led to record low prices, and while recent production cuts have marginally improved the fundamentals, inventory pressures persist [3] - The overall decline in chemical product prices has led to compressed production profits, with potential for further maintenance if prices continue to drop excessively [3][5] Group 4: Future Outlook - The outlook for chemical products suggests limited price rebound potential unless there is an unexpected contraction in supply or a change in inventory accumulation patterns [4] - The continuation of unplanned maintenance will depend on production profits and fundamental market conditions, which will dictate the year-end market trends for chemicals [4]