Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-02-16 06:57Core Viewpoint - The pulp molding industry is experiencing high demand growth, with Chinese companies leading global expansion due to advantages in capacity, technology, and cost, resulting in a favorable growth outlook for the industry, which is rated as "overweight" [1][4]. Demand Side - The U.S. is the largest overseas market for Chinese pulp molding products, accounting for 41.3% of export value in 2024, with significant growth in imports since 2020 driven by policy, product advantages, and supply-side upgrades [10][11]. - U.S. plastic restrictions are clear and strictly enforced, accelerating the transition to alternatives like pulp molding, which offers lower degradation conditions, lower costs, and broader temperature applicability compared to alternatives like PLA and PBAT [12][16]. - The penetration rate of pulp molding in global markets remains low at 5.14% by 2025, with significant growth potential in food delivery and emerging sectors like electronics and agriculture [2][10]. Supply Side - The production process for pulp molding is continuously innovating, with advancements like semi-dry pressing and direct pressing technologies reducing energy consumption and enhancing product quality [30][31]. - China's production capacity is projected to account for 56.8% of global capacity by the first three quarters of 2025, with a year-on-year production increase of 25%, while U.S. companies are exiting the market due to high costs and poor management [2][10]. Product Performance - Pulp molding products have lower degradation difficulty and better performance compared to other alternatives, with natural plant fibers decomposing within approximately three months, while synthetic materials like PLA require specific conditions for degradation [18][19]. - Pulp molding products are generally more cost-competitive than PLA and PBAT, with higher profit margins for manufacturers due to lower raw material costs [19][21]. Consumer Preferences - There is a growing consumer preference for pulp molding products in the U.S., driven by increased environmental awareness, with many consumers willing to pay a premium for sustainable packaging options [25][28].