有色金属行业：“低TC”时代来临：铜冶炼企业的突围与重塑

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the non-ferrous metals industry is optimistic [1]. Core Insights - The industry is entering a "low TC" era, with copper smelting enterprises facing significant challenges and the need for transformation [2]. - The report highlights that TC/RC has dropped to negative levels, indicating a tightening supply of copper concentrate [8][12]. - The report discusses the impact of recent production cuts from major copper mines, which have led to a significant reduction in supply [12][18]. - The profitability of smelting enterprises is under pressure, with many operating at a loss, relying on by-product revenues for survival [15][18]. - Future policies are expected to focus on controlling copper smelting capacity to prevent excessive competition and promote industry consolidation [22][23]. Summary by Sections Section 1: TC at a Decade Low - TC/RC has reached negative values, with imported copper concentrate TC around -42 USD/dry ton as of November 2025 [8]. - Major copper mines have experienced production cuts, leading to a total reduction of 570,000 tons in supply [12]. - Smelting enterprises are currently facing losses, with by-products like sulfuric acid becoming crucial for profitability [15][18]. Section 2: Future Outlook on TC - The report anticipates that TC will remain low over the next two years, with a projected supply gap of around 500,000 tons in 2026 [29]. - Policies are being developed to set a "capacity ceiling" for copper smelting to enhance industry structure and efficiency [22][23]. - The pricing model for copper smelting may shift, with companies like Freeport considering individual contract pricing to maintain profitability [25]. Section 3: Strategies for Smelting Enterprises - Smelting enterprises are encouraged to extend their supply chains and reduce costs through technological advancements and operational efficiencies [36][41]. - The report emphasizes the importance of increasing the recycling of copper and optimizing the use of by-products to enhance profitability [41][42].