芳烃与农化率先“突围” A股化工板块盈利、估值有望修复

Core Viewpoint - The chemical industry is experiencing a strong rebound in prices since 2026, driven by supply-side adjustments, recovering export demand, and policy-driven structural tightness, indicating a shift from capacity expansion to high-quality development in the sector [1]. Price Trends - As of January 30, 2026, the core products in the aromatic chemical sector have seen significant price increases, with pure benzene rising from 5,290 CNY/ton to 6,260 CNY/ton (an increase of 18.3%) and styrene from 6,950 CNY/ton to 8,025 CNY/ton (an increase of 15.5%) [2]. - Other products like phenol, toluene, and ortho-xylene have also experienced price increases ranging from 6% to 9% [2]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The reduction in PX social inventory, which fell to 1.67 million tons by the end of 2025, has supported the price increase of PX due to a low inventory and high PTA operating rates [3]. - The price of caprolactam has also rebounded, with prices increasing from 9,325 CNY/ton to 9,600 CNY/ton, driven by a decrease in industry operating rates to 68.9% and proactive production cuts by several companies [3]. Policy Impact - The agricultural chemical sector is undergoing supply-side structural reforms driven by new policies, including the "one certificate, one product" registration policy effective January 1, 2026, which is expected to accelerate the elimination of outdated production capacity and enhance industry concentration [4]. Industry Outlook - The chemical industry is emerging from a prolonged downturn, with the chemical PPI experiencing negative growth for 38 consecutive months as of November 2025 [5]. - Positive signals, such as rising oil prices and a contraction in new industry projects, suggest a potential turning point for the chemical sector, with expectations for a shift from scale expansion to high-quality growth during the 14th Five-Year Plan period [5]. Challenges Ahead - Despite the recovery, the chemical industry faces challenges, including cautious inventory replenishment by downstream companies and potential supply threats from new overseas capacities [6]. - Overall, the industry is moving away from a state of cost collapse and overcapacity, with the early success of aromatics and agricultural chemicals indicating the potential for improved profitability and valuation in the sector [6].