Shenwan Hongyuan Securities·2025-12-28 12:23Investment Rating - The report provides a "C" investment rating for the petrochemical industry, indicating a cautious outlook for investment opportunities [2]. Core Insights - The PX supply-demand balance is expected to tighten in the first half of 2026, leading to a recovery in market conditions. The operating rate is projected to improve from 78% in 2023 to over 85% [3][11]. - The PTA industry has reached the end of its capital expenditure cycle, with no new capacity expected until mid-2027. The current industry is entering a phase of coordinated production cuts, which may reduce PX demand [11][12]. - The downstream polyester sector is gradually tightening, with expectations for improved market conditions. Recommended companies include Tongkun Co. and Wankai New Materials [16]. Summary by Sections PX Supply and Demand - PX supply-demand is expected to be tight in the first half of 2026, with a significant recovery in market conditions anticipated. The operating rate is projected to rise from 78% in 2023 to over 85% [3][11]. - There are no large-scale new capacity plans in the short term, and maintenance seasons for domestic refineries may create temporary supply gaps [3]. PTA Industry Overview - The PTA industry's capacity increased from 46.08 million tons in 2018 to 86.02 million tons in 2024, with an average annual growth rate of 11%. The current capacity accounts for about 75% of global PTA capacity [11]. - The PTA industry is expected to enter a phase of coordinated production cuts, which may weaken PX demand [11][12]. Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on high-quality companies in the polyester sector, such as Tongkun Co. and Wankai New Materials, as well as large refining companies like Hengli Petrochemical and Rongsheng Petrochemical [16]. - The upstream exploration and development sector remains highly prosperous, with expectations for continued high capital expenditure in offshore services, recommending companies like CNOOC Services and Haiyou Engineering [16].