Core Viewpoint - The rising copper prices, currently at nearly 100,000 yuan per ton, have raised concerns about potential air conditioner price increases, while Gree Electric Appliances has committed to not raising prices for its home air conditioners and has no plans for "aluminum replacing copper" [1][2]. Company Summary - Gree Electric Appliances announced on January 5 that it will not increase the prices of its home air conditioners and has no current plans for "aluminum replacing copper" [2]. - The company is responding to the national subsidy policy for home appliances by ensuring consumer benefits and maintaining a ten-year free repair service standard [2]. - Gree's chairman, Dong Mingzhu, stated that while aluminum can potentially replace copper, it has not yet met the necessary technical standards to ensure quality [10]. Industry Summary - China is characterized as a "rich in aluminum but poor in copper" country, with approximately 80% of its copper being imported, while it produces 60% of the world's electrolytic aluminum [4][8]. - The air conditioning industry is currently focused on the "aluminum replacing copper" initiative, which faces technical challenges, particularly regarding the physical advantages of copper in terms of thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, and long-term reliability [4][8]. - Consumer complaints regarding air conditioners have increased by 22% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, with issues like "cooling decline" and "pipeline leakage" often associated with "aluminum replacing copper" models [4][8].
格力电器声明:不涨价!