国泰海通｜钢铁：盈利率环比回升，持续看好板块布局机会

Core Viewpoint - The steel industry is expected to gradually emerge from the bottom as supply-side market clearing begins, and if supply policies are implemented, the pace of supply contraction will accelerate, leading to faster industry recovery [1][3]. Demand and Supply Analysis - Last week, the apparent consumption of five major steel products was 8.6813 million tons, a decrease of 19,800 tons week-on-week; construction materials consumption increased by 79,000 tons to 3.0078 million tons, while plate consumption decreased by 98,800 tons to 5.6735 million tons [1]. - Steel production last week was 8.6697 million tons, down 12,200 tons week-on-week; total inventory stood at 13.365 million tons, a decrease of 11,600 tons, maintaining the lowest level for the same period in recent years [1]. - The operating rate of 247 steel mills' blast furnaces was 83.46%, unchanged week-on-week; the capacity utilization rate was 90.81%, down 0.08 percentage points; electric furnace operating rate increased by 3.21 percentage points to 62.18%, with capacity utilization at 53.48%, up 1.31 percentage points [1]. Profitability Insights - The average simulated gross profit for rebar was 330.1 yuan per ton, an increase of 131.5 yuan per ton week-on-week; for hot-rolled coils, it was 244.1 yuan per ton, up 113.5 yuan per ton [2]. - The profitability rate of 247 steel companies was 63.64%, an increase of 3.47% week-on-week [2]. Future Outlook - Demand is expected to stabilize, with a gradual reduction in the negative impact of the real estate sector on steel demand; infrastructure and manufacturing sectors are anticipated to see steady growth [3]. - Steel exports from January to June maintained a year-on-year increase of 9.2% [3]. - Approximately 40% of steel companies are still experiencing losses, but market clearing has begun, indicating a gradual recovery from the bottom [3]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is set to introduce a plan to stabilize growth in key industries, which may accelerate supply contraction and industry recovery if implemented [3]. Long-term Industry Trends - The steel industry is expected to see increased concentration and a shift towards high-quality development, benefiting companies with product structure and cost advantages [3]. - Under stricter environmental regulations and carbon neutrality goals, leading companies will have enhanced competitive advantages and profitability [3].