Zheng Quan Ri Bao·2026-01-08 17:11Core Viewpoint - The restructuring of China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) and China Aviation Oil Group (China Aviation Oil) is expected to reshape the domestic aviation fuel market and the entire energy industry chain in China, enhancing national energy security and competitiveness [2][3]. Group 1: Company Overview - Sinopec is the world's largest refining company and the second-largest chemical company, ranking 6th in the 2025 Fortune Global 500, with a comprehensive energy industry presence [2]. - China Aviation Oil is Asia's largest integrated aviation fuel service provider, involved in procurement, transportation, storage, testing, sales, and refueling [2]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - The merger allows Sinopec to directly access aviation fuel sales channels, creating a "refining-distribution" integrated loop, while China Aviation Oil gains a more stable upstream supply [3]. - The restructuring is seen as a strategic move in response to the growing demand for aviation fuel and the changing global energy landscape, enhancing the core value of national strategic security [3][4]. Group 3: Benefits of Restructuring - The integration aims to build a self-controlled, stable, and efficient supply chain, enhancing supply resilience [4]. - It seeks to lower overall supply costs through collaborative optimization across the entire supply chain, thereby increasing international competitiveness [4]. - The focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development is expected to support national energy transition and reduce carbon emissions in the aviation sector [4]. Group 4: National Economic Strategy - The restructuring aligns with the optimization and structural adjustment of state-owned enterprises, which is essential for strengthening and expanding state capital [5]. - The State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) has indicated that by 2026, there will be a strong push for strategic and professional restructuring and high-quality mergers and acquisitions [4][5]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The merger signifies a shift towards enhancing core functions and competitiveness rather than merely pursuing scale effects, indicating a deeper integration of industry chains [5]. - Future state capital optimization will focus on efficiency improvements based on market demand and strategic positioning for future industry leadership rather than short-term profits [5].