Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent initiatives by leading Chinese dairy companies, Yili and Feihe, to launch substantial "fertility subsidies" aimed at supporting families and responding to the country's declining birth rates. Yili announced a 1.6 billion yuan subsidy, while Feihe introduced a 1.2 billion yuan plan, both targeting pregnant families with financial support and health services [3][5][7]. Group 1: Company Initiatives - Yili's fertility subsidy plan, announced on April 10, 2025, offers at least 1,600 yuan per eligible family, along with comprehensive health consultation services from pregnancy to the child's third year [5][11]. - Feihe's plan, which started on April 1, 2025, provides at least 1,500 yuan in the form of vouchers redeemable for milk powder, potentially benefiting up to 800,000 families [9][11]. - The combined subsidies from both companies total 3,100 yuan per family, reflecting a competitive strategy in the dairy market [10][12]. Group 2: Market Context and Competition - The initiatives are seen as a response to the government's push for increased birth rates, with the recent government work report emphasizing the need for fertility support policies [11][12]. - Both companies aim to enhance their brand image and consumer loyalty by addressing societal needs, with Feihe and Yili competing closely in the infant formula market [12][13]. - The competition is intensified by the fact that Feihe has established a strong position in the high-end infant formula segment, while Yili maintains a comprehensive industry chain advantage [13][16]. Group 3: Financial Performance - Yili reported a total revenue of approximately 29 billion yuan for the current reporting period, with a net profit of about 3.34 billion yuan, marking an 8.53% increase year-on-year [15][20]. - Feihe's total revenue reached approximately 20.75 billion yuan, reflecting a 6.2% increase compared to the previous year, with a significant portion derived from infant formula sales [17][18]. - Yili's infant formula segment has shown strong growth, with a revenue of 21.33 billion yuan in the first three quarters of 2024, a 7.07% increase year-on-year [16][20]. Group 4: Industry Trends - The article highlights a shift in consumer preferences towards high-end infant formula, with increasing willingness to pay for premium products, driven by a focus on quality and nutritional value [22][23]. - The implementation of new national standards for infant formula in 2023 has led to improved nutritional formulations, further enhancing consumer trust in domestic brands [25][29]. - The overall dairy market is facing challenges, including a decline in imports and a need for local brands to enhance product development to meet consumer demands [27][29].