Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company with a target price of HKD 3.82, based on a 12X PE for 2025 [4]. Core Views - The company achieved significant growth in overseas sales, with a net profit of HKD 7.5 billion in the first half of the year, representing a 93% year-on-year increase. This growth is attributed to the expansion of overseas capacity and recovery in domestic pricing [1][2]. - The report highlights the strong growth potential in Africa, driven by population growth and infrastructure development, which is expected to sustain cement demand [2]. - Domestic performance also showed recovery, with a 29% increase in domestic revenue to HKD 30.7 billion, despite an 8.3% decline in sales volume [3]. Summary by Sections Overseas Sales Performance - The company reported overseas revenue of HKD 23.5 billion, a 77.6% increase year-on-year, with overall overseas cement sales volume rising by 178% to 4.17 million tons. However, the average price and gross margin per ton decreased by 34.2% and 44.5%, respectively [2]. - In Africa, revenue from Ethiopia, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo saw significant increases, with Ethiopia's sales volume growing by 363% [2]. Domestic Sales Performance - Domestic revenue reached HKD 30.7 billion, up 29%, driven by price increases, while sales volume fell by 8.3% to 6.65 million tons. The average price per ton increased by HKD 11, and gross margin improved by HKD 26 [3]. - The company is also focusing on capital expenditures, with a 40% increase to HKD 22.95 billion, and plans for ongoing projects in Mozambique and Uganda [3]. Financial Outlook - The company adjusted its net profit forecasts for 2025-2027 to HKD 15.8 billion, HKD 21.3 billion, and HKD 29.0 billion, respectively, due to a decline in overseas gross margins [1]. - The company is expected to gradually reduce debt repayment pressure, aided by cash flow contributions from overseas projects and the sale of assets in Xinjiang [3].
西部水泥（02233）：上半年海外销量大幅增长，继续看好出海成长性