2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2026-01-12 14:28Core Viewpoint - The recent changes in export tax policies for photovoltaic and lithium battery products are seen as a significant move to combat excessive competition and improve profitability in the renewable energy sectors [4][8][9]. Group 1: Market Performance - On January 12, the opening saw fluctuations in the new energy photovoltaic and lithium battery sectors, with notable divergences in individual stock performances [1]. - Leading lithium battery company CATL (宁德时代) saw its H-shares drop by 3% and A-shares decline by over 4%, while companies like Deyang Nano (德方纳米) and Hunan Youneng (湖南裕能) experienced mixed results [1]. - In the photovoltaic sector, companies such as Maiwei (迈为股份) and Jiejia Weichuang (捷佳伟创) surged over 10%, while Trina Solar (天合光能) and Haiyou New Materials (海优新材) rose over 8% [1]. Group 2: Export Tax Policy Changes - Starting April 1, 2026, the export tax rebate for photovoltaic products will be eliminated, and the rebate rate for battery products will be reduced from 9% to 6% until the end of 2026, after which it will be completely removed [2]. - This policy change is part of a broader "anti-involution" initiative aimed at addressing the supply-demand mismatch and intense price competition that have weakened profitability in the photovoltaic and lithium battery industries [4][5][8]. Group 3: Industry Response and Measures - Since 2025, there have been ongoing calls within the lithium battery sector to resist harmful competition and control capacity growth, with various industry meetings held to discuss these issues [7]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has organized discussions with leading battery companies to establish measures for regulating competition and ensuring sustainable growth [7]. - A total of 20 measures were proposed, including monitoring production capacity and implementing penalties for non-compliant companies, which may affect financing and tax rebates [8]. Group 4: Market Dynamics and Future Outlook - Despite the seasonal downturn typically seen in the first quarter, demand for power and energy storage batteries remains strong, with companies reporting full order books and saturated production capacity [11]. - The anticipated increase in costs due to the export tax policy is prompting overseas buyers to adjust their purchasing schedules, potentially leading to a robust first quarter for lithium battery sales [11][12]. - Analysts predict that the cancellation of export tax rebates will ultimately raise the costs and prices of Chinese photovoltaic components in overseas markets, which could help clear out excess capacity and stabilize prices in the long run [13].