半导体下一个黄金赛道：光掩模行业深度解读与国产替代（附投资标的）

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the critical role of photomasks in semiconductor manufacturing, highlighting the high costs associated with producing advanced chips and the significant market opportunities for domestic players in China due to foreign monopolies in the photomask industry [2][3][4]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The photomask industry is a nearly $10 billion market, with over 50% of the market share controlled by Japanese companies, particularly in high-end EUV photomasks, which are completely banned from export to China [3][4]. - The photomask serves as a bridge between chip design and manufacturing, directly impacting chip performance and yield, with costs for a single advanced photomask reaching up to $750,000 [2][3][27]. Group 2: Technical Barriers - The industry is characterized by high capital and technical intensity, creating significant barriers to entry for new players [12]. - Key technical challenges include handling non-standard data from various chip design companies, ensuring precise overlay accuracy across multiple mask layers, and managing exposure control during the lithography process [15][20]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The global market for photomasks is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.07%, indicating a robust demand driven by advancements in semiconductor technology [60]. - The article outlines the evolution of photomask technology from traditional methods to advanced techniques like OPC and EUV, which significantly increase the value of individual photomasks [27][43]. Group 4: Domestic Players and Opportunities - Domestic companies like Longtu Photomask and Qingyi Optoelectronics are making strides in the photomask market, with Longtu focusing on high-end semiconductor applications and Qingyi covering a broader range of products [72]. - The article suggests that the path to domestic substitution involves self-sufficiency in materials, breakthroughs in equipment, and collaboration across the supply chain [62]. Group 5: Challenges and Risks - The industry faces risks from geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding reliance on Japanese and Korean suppliers for critical materials, which could disrupt the entire semiconductor manufacturing process in China [73]. - The potential for new entrants in the domestic market could lead to price wars, impacting profitability for existing players [73].