全球份额持续“失守”，日韩电池企业如何“自救”？

Core Viewpoint - The global battery market is witnessing a significant shift, with Japanese and South Korean battery manufacturers experiencing a decline in market share, while Chinese competitors, particularly CATL, are gaining ground rapidly [1][4][8]. Market Share Decline - LG Energy Solution's market share has fallen below 10%, while Samsung SDI has reported negative growth, leading to a combined market share of under 17% for the three major South Korean manufacturers [2][7]. - Excluding the large Chinese market, the combined share of South Korean companies in overseas markets has decreased by nearly 10 percentage points [3][8]. - The overall market share of the four major Japanese and South Korean battery manufacturers has dropped from approximately 23% to 16% year-on-year [7][8]. Financial Recovery - Despite declining market shares, the latest financial reports from Japanese and South Korean battery companies indicate a recovery in profitability [6][15]. - LG Energy Solution reported a 31.4% increase in operating profit in Q2 2025, with an operating profit margin of 8.8%, up over 5 percentage points from the previous year [15][16]. - SK On has narrowed its operating losses significantly, achieving a quarterly profit for the first time due to improved operational efficiency and external subsidies [18][20]. Strategic Shifts - Japanese and South Korean battery manufacturers are shifting focus from merely defending market share to targeting high-value segments in emerging markets [24][25]. - The global energy storage market is growing rapidly, outpacing the electric vehicle market, driven by renewable energy expansion and AI data center demands [26][27]. - LG Energy Solution has secured a $4.3 billion supply contract for LFP storage batteries with Tesla, indicating a strategic pivot towards energy storage [28]. Technological Advancements - Japanese and South Korean companies are investing in next-generation battery technologies, including high-nickel ternary batteries and solid-state batteries, to maintain competitive advantages [30][36]. - LG Energy Solution is advancing research on lithium-rich manganese-based materials, aiming for over 30% energy density improvement while keeping costs low [36][37]. Global Manufacturing Capacity - Panasonic has launched a new factory in Kansas, increasing its total annual production capacity in the U.S. to 73 GWh, highlighting the significant manufacturing footprint of Japanese and South Korean companies in North America [38][39]. - The establishment of local supply chains and production facilities in the U.S. is seen as a strategic advantage for these companies amid changing geopolitical landscapes [40][42]. Emerging Market Opportunities - Japanese and South Korean battery manufacturers have established a strong presence in Southeast Asia, with LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI investing in local production facilities [48][49]. - The competitive landscape in emerging markets is intensifying, with traditional automotive giants like Toyota expanding their electric vehicle production in the region [47].