中国能源报·2025-09-30 00:05Core Viewpoint - The lead-acid battery industry is facing severe transformation pressures and survival challenges compared to the booming lithium battery industry [1][3] Industry Overview - China is the largest producer and exporter of lead-acid batteries, with a production volume of approximately 7.451 million tons in 2024, accounting for over 40% of global production [5] - The industry has been characterized by low, small, and scattered workshop-style production, which has led to the cancellation of export tax rebates since December 1, 2018, to curb pollution and resource waste [5][10] Tax Fraud Case - A tax fraud case involving a gang that falsely issued invoices to claim export tax rebates for lead-acid batteries resulted in a loss of 149 million yuan to the state [3][5] - The main perpetrator received a prison sentence of 12 years and 6 months, with fines imposed on other involved parties [5][6] Market Challenges - The lead-acid battery industry is experiencing significant pressure from both upstream and downstream sectors, with increasing environmental regulations raising compliance costs [8] - The demand for primary lead is weak, and the profitability of recycling lead has been severely compressed due to rising procurement costs [9] - The market is facing intense competition from lithium batteries, which have become the mainstream choice in the power battery sector, particularly in the electric two-wheeler market [9][10] Financial Performance - Major companies in the lead-acid battery sector, such as Nandu Power and Tianneng Group, have reported declining revenues and increasing losses, indicating a challenging financial landscape [10] - The profit margins for lead-acid battery enterprises have remained low, typically between 2% and 4%, leading some smaller companies to engage in tax evasion [10] Strategic Responses - Companies are initiating strategic transformations by reducing their reliance on traditional lead-acid battery businesses and expanding into lithium battery markets [10] - The industry is encouraged to enhance its green development competitiveness by optimizing tax policies to support high-quality development and resource recycling [12][13] Environmental Considerations - The lead-acid battery industry has seen significant improvements in environmental standards, but pollution incidents still occur, highlighting the need for precise differentiation between high-pollution and green products [13] - The industry is urged to transition from traditional manufacturing to green energy solutions, improve automation, and consolidate smaller, less competitive firms to enhance overall competitiveness [13]