29 July 2025 Global Metals & Mining Global Metals & Mining: 2025 is set to be another year of copper supply failure Bob Brackett, Ph.D. +1 917 344 8422 bob.brackett@bernsteinsg.com Andrianto Guntoro +44 207 676 6825 andrianto.guntoro@bernsteinsg.com Copper demand almost always rises (almost 3% CAGR over the next ten years, or ~1 mln tonnes/year). Copper production almost always misses, for a variety of reasons discussed below. We show that the risk of those reasons is rising. And 2025 is set to be a prime e ...

Report Industry Investment Rating No relevant content provided. Core Views of the Report - The global lead market shows a large visible inventory pressure, and the expected increase in supply from new capacity will suppress lead prices. However, the cost support is relatively stable, and the potential production cut expectation caused by refinery losses also provides a bottom - support for lead prices. It is expected that the lead price will fluctuate widely in August, and its upside space depends on the actual improvement in the consumption end [2][72][73]. Summary According to the Directory 1. Lead Market Review - In July, the main contract price of Shanghai lead showed a volatile decline. Affected by factors such as the passing of the US bill, good domestic PMI data, and the approaching consumption peak season at the beginning of the month, the lead price was firm. In the middle of the month, due to factors like inventory increase and less - than - expected downstream consumption improvement, the lead price adjusted. After the news of some Middle - Eastern countries imposing additional tariffs on lead - battery exports, the lead price decline was magnified. Finally, it closed at 16,735 yuan/ton, with a monthly decline of 2.7%. The London lead price first declined and then rose, closing at 1,969.5 US dollars/ton at the end of the month, with a monthly decline of 3.93% [7]. 2. Lead Fundamental Analysis 2.1 Lead Ore Supply Situation - **Global lead concentrate supply is slowly recovering**: From January to May 2025, the global cumulative lead concentrate production was 1.8111 million tons, with a cumulative year - on - year increase of 2.5%. Overseas mine production showed different year - on - year changes, indicating a slow recovery rhythm. In China, from January to June, the cumulative lead concentrate production was 787,000 tons, with a cumulative year - on - year increase of 13%. It is expected that the global lead concentrate supply will continue to recover in the second half of the year, with an expected overseas increase of 100,000 tons and a domestic increase of about 70,000 tons, and the global lead mine production growth rate will be 2.3% to 4620,000 tons [10][11]. - **Lead concentrate processing fees remain low, and the demand for silver concentrate imports is increasing**: In August, the average domestic lead concentrate processing fee was 500 yuan/metal ton, a month - on - month decrease of 100 yuan/metal ton; the import processing fee was - 60 US dollars/dry ton, a month - on - month decrease of 15 US dollars/dry ton. The import of lead concentrate maintained a loss, but the monthly import volume remained at a relatively high level. In June, the silver concentrate import volume was 126,000 tons, and the cumulative import volume from January to June was 847,000 tons. With the continuous high price of by - product silver, the import demand remained high [18][20]. 2.2 Refined Lead Supply Situation - **Global refined lead supply growth is slow**: From January to May 2025, the global cumulative refined lead production was 5.5066 million tons, with a cumulative year - on - year decrease of 1.8%. It is predicted that the global refined lead production in 2025 will be 13.272 million tons, with a year - on - year increase of 0.6% [22]. - **Refineries are resuming production, and the electrolytic lead production in August is expected to increase month - on - month**: In July, the electrolytic lead production was 321,700 tons, a month - on - month decrease of 2.1%. It is expected that the production in August will be 338,200 tons, a month - on - month increase of 5.13% [26]. - **The price of waste batteries remains high, and new projects contribute to the increase in production**: In July, the price of waste batteries fluctuated slightly. It is expected that the price will remain firm in August. In July, the production of recycled refined lead was 258,000 tons, a month - on - month increase of 13.96%. It is expected that the production in August will be 273,900 tons, a month - on - month increase of 6.16% [32][33]. 2.3 Refined Lead Demand Situation - **Global refined lead demand situation**: From January to May 2025, the global cumulative refined lead consumption was 5.4887 million tons, with a cumulative year - on - year increase of 2.69%. It is expected that the global refined lead demand in 2025 will increase by 1.5% to 13.19 million tons, and the global refined lead supply will exceed demand by 82,000 tons [44]. - **Lead - battery enters the traditional consumption peak season, and the sector shows differentiation**: In July, the consumption of electric bicycle batteries was good, while the consumption of automobile starting batteries was mixed. In August, it is expected that the battery consumption will continue to be differentiated [48]. - **The Shanghai - London ratio is not conducive to lead ingot and battery exports, and imports supplement raw material ratios**: In June, the refined lead export volume decreased month - on - month, and the import volume increased year - on - year. The high Shanghai - London ratio is not conducive to lead ingot exports, and the battery export is also affected by factors such as tariff increases [49][50]. - **Policy guidance improves the marginal consumption prospects of lead - batteries**: In the automobile sector, the battery replacement demand is stable, and the new - car demand is expected to continue to be good. In the electric bicycle sector, the replacement demand is large, and policies such as trade - in and new national standards will stimulate consumption. In the energy - storage sector, the demand for lead - batteries is expected to grow [58][60][62]. 2.4 Global Visible Inventory is Rising - In July, the global visible lead inventory was under pressure. The LME inventory remained high, and the domestic lead ingot inventory increased. If the consumption in August does not improve significantly, the inventory may continue to rise [67]. 3. Summary and Future Outlook - The supply of primary lead is expected to increase in August, but the refinery profit is compressed. The supply of recycled lead is expected to be stable with a slight increase, but there is a possibility of unexpected production cuts. The demand is differentiated, and the traditional consumption peak season is slightly lower than expected. The lead price is expected to fluctuate widely in August, and its upside depends on the consumption improvement [72][73].

1. Report Industry Investment Rating No relevant information provided in the content. 2. Core Views of the Report - The macro - environment shows that concerns about the US economic recession resurface, and the probability of the Fed cutting interest rates in September increases. In China, the economic pressure eases in the second half of the year, and the macro - environment tends to be stable [2][83]. - On the supply side, overseas zinc mine production is mostly stable, and domestic mine output is steadily released. In August, zinc processing fees continue to rise, refinery profits improve, and the supply of refined zinc is expected to increase by 12,000 tons month - on - month [2][83]. - The demand side is differentiated. High - temperature and heavy - rain weather affects infrastructure construction. The Yalong River project boosts consumption expectations but has limited actual impact. The trade - in policy has overdrawn some demand. Zinc consumption in the automotive and home - appliance sectors weakens marginally but remains resilient. The wind - power industry and galvanized product exports support demand, while the slowdown in the photovoltaic industry and the weak real - estate market drag down demand [2][83]. - Overall, the domestic policy expectations are fulfilled, but overseas economic concerns resurface. The market risk preference weakens. The supply of zinc continues to grow, while the demand is lackluster. The fundamental situation remains weak, and the high - level hedging demand in the industry suppresses zinc prices. However, the high concentration of LME zinc delivery warrants provides a basis for a short squeeze, which may support zinc prices or slow down the decline. It is expected that the main contract of Shanghai zinc will show a weak and volatile pattern in August, and the strategy is to sell on rebounds [2][84]. 3. Summary According to the Directory 3.1 Zinc Market行情回顾 - In early July, Shanghai zinc continued to oscillate at a low level. In late July, the price first rose and then fell. By the end of July, the price closed at 22,345 yuan/ton, with a monthly decline of 0.67%. LME zinc's center of gravity moved up, and it closed at 2,762 US dollars/ton at the end of the month, with a monthly increase of 0.77% [7]. 3.2 Macro - aspect 3.2.1 US Aspect - The US economy weakens, with the ISM manufacturing PMI in July hitting a nine - month low, and the non - farm employment data braking sharply. Inflation rebounds slightly, and the Fed's interest - rate decision shows internal differences. After the non - farm employment data in July, the expectation of a September interest - rate cut increases significantly. The US has reached trade agreements with some countries, and the global tariff level is expected to be 15 - 20%, with the tariff - driven factor weakening [10][11][12]. 3.2.2 Euro - zone Aspect - The Euro - zone economy shows certain resilience driven by domestic demand, with the comprehensive PMI in July rising. Inflation rebounds slightly, and the ECB suspends interest - rate cuts. However, the US - EU tariff agreement increases trade costs and will impact the EU's automotive and pharmaceutical industries [13][14]. 3.2.3 China Aspect - China's GDP in Q2 2025 increased by 5.2% year - on - year, slightly lower than that in Q1. The economy in June showed a differentiated performance, with external demand and production rebounding, while consumption and investment weakening. The Politburo meeting at the end of the month indicated that the focus of fiscal policy in the second half of the year is on implementation, and the expectation of strong stimulus policies weakens [15][16][17]. 3.3 Zinc Fundamental Analysis 3.3.1 Zinc Ore Supply Situation - **Global Zinc Concentrate Supply Shifts from Tight to Loose**: In 2025, from January to May, the global zinc concentrate cumulative output was 4.9589 million tons, with a cumulative year - on - year increase of 4.58%. Overseas mines are generally stable in production, and it is estimated that the overseas zinc ore increment for the whole year will be 55 - 60 million tons. In China, new mines are being put into production, and the annual increment is expected to be 9 - 10 million tons [31][32][33]. - **Zinc Concentrate Processing Fees Continue to Rise Month - on - Month, and Zinc Ore Imports Decline Significantly Month - on - Month**: In August, domestic and imported zinc concentrate processing fees increased. Due to the stable recovery of zinc ore supply, smelters have a high bargaining power. The zinc ore import volume in June decreased significantly month - on - month. Although overseas mines are releasing incremental output, factors such as the loss of zinc ore imports and the weakening of the Shanghai - London ratio may limit future imports, but there is still a possibility of a rebound [39]. 3.3.2 Refined Zinc Supply Situation - **Overseas Smelters Have Both Production Cuts and Expansions, and Supply Disturbance Risks Remain**: From January to May 2025, the global refined zinc cumulative output decreased year - on - year, mainly due to overseas production cuts. Some overseas smelters have reduced production, while some have expanded production. It is expected that the global refined zinc supply increment will mainly come from China [45]. - **Refined Zinc Output from January to July Slightly Exceeds Expectations, and Output in August Remains Above 600,000 Tons**: In July, China's refined zinc output was 602,800 tons, and it is expected to reach 621,500 tons in August. The import volume of refined zinc in June increased, but since May, the import window has been closed, and future imports will mainly be long - term contracts [50][51]. 3.3.3 Refined Zinc Demand Situation - **High Interest Rates and Tariffs Disturb Overseas Demand, Which is Under Pressure**: From January to May 2025, the global refined zinc consumption increased slightly year - on - year. In overseas markets, high interest rates and tariffs have a negative impact on the real - estate and automotive industries, and overseas terminal consumption is difficult to improve significantly [61][62]. - **The Start - up of Initial Enterprises is Seasonally Weak, and Galvanized Exports Remain Resilient**: In July, the start - up rate of initial enterprises was weak, in line with the seasonal pattern. Galvanized product exports increased in June, but it is expected to decline marginally in July [64][65]. - **Terminal Consumption is Differentiated**: In the traditional infrastructure sector, the growth rate of infrastructure investment has slowed down, but it is expected to accelerate in the second half of the year. The real - estate market is still weak, with both investment and sales declining. The automotive and home - appliance industries have certain resilience, but the growth rate may slow down. The photovoltaic industry has slowed down, while the wind - power industry is expected to continue to grow [69][70][72][74][76][77]. 3.3.4 Overseas Inventory Continues to Decline from a High Level, and Domestic Inventory Increases Slightly - In July, LME inventory decreased, and there were concerns about a short squeeze, which pushed up zinc prices. Social inventory in China increased slowly. It is expected that inventory will continue to increase seasonally in early August but will stop increasing in late August as downstream demand recovers [，81]. 3.4 Summary and Future Outlook - The macro - environment tends to be stable, the supply of zinc shows an increasing trend, and the demand is differentiated. The fundamental situation of zinc remains weak, but the high concentration of LME zinc delivery warrants may support zinc prices. It is expected that the Shanghai zinc main contract will show a weak and volatile pattern in August, and the strategy is to sell on rebounds [83][84].

Report Industry Investment Ratings No information provided regarding industry investment ratings. Core Views of the Report - The RMB exchange rate is likely to remain stable in the short term, with an expected operating range of 7.15 - 7.20 this week [1]. - The stock index is expected to continue to strengthen as various sentiment indicators are positive [2]. - Treasury bond trading desks are advised to temporarily stop losses and wait for the details of the anti - involution policy to be fully implemented after important meetings. There may be a configuration opportunity for the bond market after the policy is implemented and emotions are released [2][3][4]. - The shipping index (European line) futures prices may continue to oscillate and decline slightly. Attention should be paid to the actions of other shipping companies and the changes in the spot quotes of European lines [4][5]. - Copper may be slightly stronger in the short term but may face risks in the medium term. Aluminum is expected to oscillate at a high level, alumina to run strongly, and casting aluminum alloy to oscillate at a high level. Zinc is expected to oscillate at a high level in the short term and decline in the long term. Nickel and stainless steel are affected by macro - emotions, and the trend needs to pay attention to the fermentation of macro - emotions. Tin prices are expected to follow the overall trend of the non - ferrous sector in the short term, and it is recommended to hedge inventory at an appropriate time. Lithium carbonate is expected to oscillate strongly in the short term. Industrial silicon and polysilicon are affected by coal price disturbances and macro - emotions, and there are opportunities for long positions and positive spreads. Lead is expected to oscillate [6][7][8][9][10][11][13][14][15][16][17][19][21][22]. - The steel and hot - rolled coil market is expected to remain strong before the Politburo meeting in July, but the risk of a pullback due to the weakening of emotions should be vigilant. Iron ore is driven by expectations, and its price is expected to fluctuate more strongly near the meeting. Coking coal and coke are expected to oscillate strongly in the short term, and it is recommended to pay attention to the opportunity of 9 - 1 reverse spreads. Silicon iron and silicon manganese are expected to be optimistic in the short term, and attention should be paid to the implementation of policies [24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32]. - Crude oil is in an oscillating and weakening pattern, and attention should be paid to the risk of a price decline. PX - PTA and MEG - bottle chips are driven by the "anti - involution" policy and are expected to run strongly in the short term. Methanol is recommended to be observed. PP and PE are affected by the cost side and macro - policies, with resistance to price increases and a "weak reality + strong expectation" pattern respectively. PVC is affected by the "anti - involution" emotion and is recommended to avoid risks. Fuel oil is in a weak adjustment, low - sulfur fuel oil is under pressure and should be observed, asphalt is adjusted weakly following the cost side, and urea is expected to oscillate strongly [33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41][42][43][44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53]. - Soda ash supply is strong and demand is weak, and glass is expected to remain strong. Logs have a relatively independent market, and pulp may break through and can be cautiously chased long if it breaks through effectively. Caustic soda is at a high level, and attention should be paid to the change in downstream demand [54][55][57][59][60]. - For agricultural products, live pigs are recommended to be shorted at high prices and appropriate reverse spreads can be arranged. Oilseeds are recommended to be long - allocated in the far - month contracts. Corn and starch are expected to oscillate narrowly. Cotton is expected to be strong in the short term, and attention should be paid to inventory changes. Sugar is under short - term pressure. Apples are expected to oscillate in the short term [62][63][64][65][66][67][68][69][70][71]. Summaries According to Relevant Catalogs Financial Futures RMB Exchange Rate - Yesterday, the on - shore RMB against the US dollar closed at 7.1756 at 16:30, up 12 basis points from the previous trading day, and closed at 7.1695 at night. The central parity rate of the RMB against the US dollar was reported at 7.1460, up 62 basis points [1]. - The current market has no obvious expectation of RMB appreciation or depreciation, and the foreign exchange market transactions are rational and orderly. The external environment shows that the rapid depreciation stage of the US dollar index is likely to have ended, but the overall weak trend is expected to continue. Domestically, the central bank is likely to continue to adhere to the regulatory philosophy of "bottom - line thinking + discretionary decision - making" [1]. Stock Index - Yesterday, the stock index continued to strengthen, and the trading volume of the two markets increased by 1930.58 billion yuan. The futures index increased in volume. Affected by the anti - involution policy and the start of the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River, the water conservancy, steel, and building materials sectors led the rise [2]. - With positive sentiment indicators and relatively calm news, the stock index is expected to continue to strengthen [2]. Treasury Bonds - Treasury bond futures opened strongly, oscillated narrowly, then dived and closed down. The short - end was relatively strong, and the liquidity improved, with the capital interest rate returning to the key level of 1.3% [2]. - With the strong performance of risk assets and the decline of treasury bond futures prices, trading desks are advised to temporarily stop losses and wait for the details of the anti - involution policy. After the policy is implemented and emotions are released, there may be a configuration opportunity for the bond market [2][3][4]. Container Shipping - Yesterday, the prices of container shipping index (European line) futures contracts oscillated downward. Affected by commodity emotions, they rebounded slightly and then continued to decline [4]. - On July 31, the total quote of Maersk's 20GP from Shanghai to Rotterdam increased by $10 compared with the previous value, and the 40GP increased by $20. On August 7, the opening quotes of 20GP and 40GP decreased compared with the previous week [4]. - The futures price is expected to continue to oscillate and decline slightly, and attention should be paid to the actions of other shipping companies and the changes in the spot quotes of European lines [4][5]. Commodities Non - ferrous Metals - **Copper**: The Shanghai Copper Index maintained a high - level oscillation on Tuesday. The anti - involution policy has an impact on the non - ferrous metal sector. Copper may be slightly stronger in the short term, but there are hidden risks in the medium term [6][7]. - **Aluminum Industry Chain**: The price of Shanghai Aluminum increased by 0.75% on the previous trading day, and the price of alumina increased by 6.07%. The price of casting aluminum alloy increased by 0.90%. Aluminum is expected to oscillate at a high level, alumina to run strongly, and casting aluminum alloy to oscillate at a high level [8][9][10][11]. - **Zinc**: The main contract of Shanghai Zinc increased by 0.01% on the previous trading day. The supply of zinc is expected to change from tight to surplus, and the demand is weak. It is recommended to short at high prices in the short term and pay attention to supply - side disturbances [11][13]. - **Nickel and Stainless Steel**: The main contract of Shanghai Nickel increased by 1.52% during the day, and the main contract of stainless steel increased by 0.47%. The current market is mainly affected by macro - emotions, and the fundamentals have not improved significantly [15]. - **Tin**: The Shanghai Tin Index showed a V - shaped trend on Tuesday. Tin prices are affected by the anti - involution policy, but the fundamentals remain stable. It is recommended to hedge inventory at an appropriate time [16][17]. - **Lithium Carbonate**: On Tuesday, the futures price of lithium carbonate oscillated strongly. The spot market of the lithium - battery industry chain strengthened, and the cost support was enhanced. It is expected to oscillate strongly in the short term [17][18]. - **Industrial Silicon and Polysilicon**: On Tuesday, the futures prices of industrial silicon and polysilicon rose by the daily limit. Affected by coal price disturbances and macro - emotions, there are opportunities for long positions and positive spreads [19][20]. - **Lead**: The main contract of Shanghai Lead decreased by 0.02% on the previous trading day. The supply of lead is in a tight - balance state, and it is difficult to synchronize with the anti - involution policy. It is expected to oscillate in the short term [21][22]. Black Metals - **Rebar and Hot - Rolled Coil**: The coking coal market led to a rise in the steel market. The market is expected to remain strong before the Politburo meeting in July, but the risk of a pullback due to the weakening of emotions should be vigilant [24][25]. - **Iron Ore**: Affected by news and expectations, the price of iron ore followed the rise of coking coal. The fundamentals have not changed much, and the price is expected to fluctuate more strongly near the meeting [26][27]. - **Coking Coal and Coke**: The coking coal and coke markets rose by the daily limit. The production of domestic coking coal mines is gradually recovering, and the import is expected to increase. The coking industry is under cost pressure, and the demand for coke is supported in the short term. The market is expected to oscillate strongly in the short term [28][29][30]. - **Silicon Iron and Silicon Manganese**: The profits of silicon iron and silicon manganese have improved, and the production enterprises have a certain driving force to resume production. However, the growth space is limited due to weak downstream demand. The market is expected to be optimistic in the short term, and attention should be paid to the implementation of policies [31][32]. Energy and Chemicals - **Crude Oil**: The prices of New York and London crude oil futures decreased, and the SC crude oil main contract also closed down at night. The market is in an oscillating and weakening pattern, and attention should be paid to the risk of a price decline [33][34]. - **PX - PTA**: The PX - PTA industry chain has limited fundamental driving forces. The macro "anti - involution" policy has an uncertain impact, and it is expected to run strongly in the short term [35][36][37]. - **MEG - Bottle Chips**: The supply of ethylene glycol has frequent accidents, and the demand is weak. Affected by the "anti - involution" emotion, the overall trend is strong. The bottle chips' price fluctuates with the cost side [38][39][40]. - **Methanol**: The methanol 09 contract closed at 2450 on Tuesday. The port inventory continued to accumulate. It is recommended to observe due to strong macro - emotions [41][42]. - **PP**: The PP 2509 contract increased. The supply is under pressure, and the demand is in the off - season. Although the trading volume has increased, the price increase faces resistance [43][44]. - **PE**: The PE 2509 contract increased. The supply has a high level of maintenance, and the demand is gradually recovering. It is in a "weak reality + strong expectation" pattern [45][46]. - **PVC**: The PVC price increased sharply, driven by the "anti - involution" emotion and the expectation of eliminating outdated chemical devices. Although the fundamentals are poor, the anti - involution value is high. It is recommended to avoid risks [47][48][49]. - **Fuel Oil**: The fuel oil market is in a weak adjustment. The supply is still tight, and the demand has increased in some areas. The Singapore and Malaysian floating - storage inventories are at a high level [50]. - **Low - Sulfur Fuel Oil**: The low - sulfur fuel oil market is under pressure. The supply has decreased overseas, and the demand has slightly improved. It is recommended to observe in the short term [51]. - **Asphalt**: The asphalt market is adjusted weakly following the cost side. The supply has increased slightly, and the demand is in the off - season. The inventory structure is being adjusted, and the market is expected to improve in the peak season [51][52]. - **Urea**: The urea 09 contract closed at 1810 on Tuesday. Affected by the "anti - involution" policy, it is expected to oscillate strongly in the short term. However, the agricultural demand is gradually weakening, and the fundamentals will be under pressure in the second half of the year [53]. - **Glass and Soda Ash**: The soda ash supply is strong and demand is weak, and the glass market is expected to remain strong. The "anti - involution" policy has an impact on the market, and attention should be paid to the implementation of the policy [54][55]. Others - **Logs**: The main contract of logs closed at 838, with a decrease of 4 and a reduction of 2264 lots. The market is relatively independent, and the spot price is stable. The current price is slightly overvalued [57][58]. - **Pulp**: The main contract of pulp closed at 5368, with an increase of 40. Affected by the macro - atmosphere, the price has risen. If it can break through effectively, it can be cautiously chased long [59]. - **Caustic Soda**: The caustic soda 2509 contract closed at 2658, with an increase of 3.46%. The inventory has increased slightly, and the market is at a high level. Attention should be paid to the change in downstream demand [60]. Agricultural Products Live Pigs - The LH2509 contract closed at 14380, with a daily increase of 0.1%. The national average price of live pigs decreased slightly. The supply is still high, and it is recommended to short at high prices and arrange appropriate reverse spreads [62][63]. Oilseeds - The external market of US soybeans oscillated after a rebound, and the domestic near - month contracts were strong, and the far - month contracts also followed the rise. The supply of imported soybeans is relatively abundant, and the demand for domestic soybean meal has neutral support. The supply of rapeseed meal has a short - term rhythm problem, and attention should be paid to the supply recovery of the rapeseed sector [64]. - It is recommended to long - allocate far - month contracts [65][66]. Corn and Starch - The CBOT corn futures closed down, and the Dalian corn starch oscillated. The prices of corn and starch in different regions were stable. The market is expected to oscillate narrowly, and attention should be paid to the auction成交 rate [66]. Cotton - The ICE cotton futures rose slightly, and the Zhengzhou cotton futures rose nearly 0.5% overnight. The new cotton in Xinjiang is growing well, and the domestic cotton inventory is low, which supports the cotton price. However, the terminal demand is weak in the off - season [67]. - The cotton market is expected to be strong in the short term, and attention should be paid to the import quota policy and inventory changes [67][68]. Sugar - The ICE raw sugar futures closed down, and the Zhengzhou sugar futures oscillated. The global sugar supply is expected to be in surplus, and the short - term sugar price is under pressure [69][70]. Apples - The apple futures price increased slightly. The spot price of apples in different regions is stable. Affected by seasonal fruits, the sales volume is limited. The inventory is at a low level in the past five years. The market is expected to oscillate in the short term [71].

Group 1: Zinc Price Trends - Zinc prices showed a downward trend in the first half of the year, influenced by increasing overseas mine supply and weak demand [2] - From late March to early April, zinc prices further declined due to the impact of U.S. tariff policies and a gradual increase in zinc mine output [2] - By April to June, the impact of U.S. tariffs lessened, but low inventory levels continued to affect prices, leading to a weak consolidation phase [2] Group 2: Zinc Supply Dynamics - Global zinc mine production increased by nearly 190,000 tons in the first four months of 2024, a year-on-year growth of 5.1%, primarily driven by the resumption of overseas mines [3] - Domestic zinc mine production decreased by nearly 30,000 tons year-on-year, slightly below expectations [3] - The cash cost of zinc mines at the 90th percentile is approximately $2,000 per ton, indicating a profit margin of nearly 30% based on average zinc prices [3] Group 3: Smelting and Refining Insights - Global zinc ingot production decreased by about 106,000 tons year-on-year in the first four months, with China's production down nearly 130,000 tons [3] - Zinc concentrate inventory at smelting plants increased by nearly 22% year-on-year by June, reaching historical highs [4] - The processing fee for zinc concentrate in China has risen to over 3,600 yuan per metal ton, indicating a recovery trend [4] Group 4: Demand Factors - Infrastructure investment remains stable, with significant growth in the electricity sector and a rebound in public facilities, while the transportation sector shows weakness [5] - The real estate market continues to be at a low point, with a declining share of zinc demand expected in 2025 [5] - Automotive production, sales, and exports have shown strong growth, but there are concerns about a potential slowdown in demand in the second half of the year [5] Group 5: Export Trends - Zinc product exports surged in the first half of the year due to U.S. tariff policies, with notable increases in galvanized sheets and zinc alloys [7] - However, as the export rush subsides and tariffs are implemented, there may be downward pressure on exports of primary zinc products [7] - Overall, the zinc market is expected to transition from a tight supply situation to a more relaxed one, with a clearer downward trend in zinc prices anticipated for 2025 [7]

Report Industry Investment Rating There is no information provided in the report regarding the industry investment rating. Core Viewpoints of the Report - In the context of trade protection, the global economic downward pressure persists. The supply of zinc ore and zinc ingots tends to be loose, while the demand faces insufficient momentum in traditional consumption sectors and a slowdown in the growth rate of emerging consumption sectors. The degree of supply - demand surplus expands. It is expected that the zinc price center will gradually decline under pressure in the second half of the year, ranging from 21,000 to 23,000 yuan/ton, with a pattern of being lower first and then higher. If the macro - economy deteriorates significantly, the zinc price may seek support from the mine cost [4][94][96]. Summary According to Relevant Catalogs 1. Zinc Market Review - In the first half of the year, the main contract price of Shanghai zinc showed a downward trend in the oscillation center. In the first quarter, due to concerns about tariff increases and the strong US dollar, combined with the Spring Festival holiday in China, the zinc price was weak. In March, the price stabilized and rebounded and oscillated around 24,000 yuan/ton. In the second quarter, due to unexpected US tariffs, the zinc price hit a new low in the first half of the year, then stabilized and rebounded. By June 30, the main contract price of Shanghai zinc closed at 22,495 yuan/ton, a decrease of 10.96% from the beginning of the year. The London zinc price also showed a downward trend in the oscillation range, closing at 2,741 US dollars/ton on June 30, a decrease of 6.26% from the beginning of the year [8]. 2. Macroeconomic Analysis 2.1 US Situation - In the first half of 2025, the US economy showed signs of a slowdown, with inflation potentially rising in the future. The Fed was cautious about interest rate cuts. In the second half of the year, the continuous impact of Trump's tariff policy will further suppress economic growth. The "Big Beautiful Act" may ease the economic decline to some extent but may also lead to secondary inflation. The Fed is expected to cut interest rates 2 - 3 times to relieve the economic slowdown pressure, and the US dollar index is in a downward channel in the medium - to - long term [11][12]. 2.2 Eurozone Situation - In the first half of 2025, the Eurozone economy showed a mild recovery. The European Central Bank's continuous interest rate cuts stimulated investment and real - estate demand, and net exports increased. Inflation continued to decline. In the second half of the year, the Eurozone economy faces both opportunities and challenges. Although there is still room for interest rate cuts, the threat of tariffs may limit economic growth, and inflation may rebound [13][14]. 2.3 China's Situation - In the first half of 2025, China's economy showed resilience, with stable GDP growth. Policies focused on implementing existing measures. In the second half of the year, the economic growth rate may slow down, with exports, consumption, and manufacturing investment facing challenges. However, infrastructure investment will remain stable, and the annual GDP growth target is still expected to be achieved [16][17]. 3. Zinc Fundamental Analysis 3.1 Zinc Ore Supply - **Global Zinc Concentrate Supply Turns from Tight to Loose**: In 2025, the global zinc concentrate supply increased. Overseas, new projects climbed production smoothly, and some mines resumed production and increased production. In China, although the cumulative output from January to May decreased year - on - year, it is expected to increase in the second half of the year. The annual global increment is expected to be 55 - 600,000 tons [30]. - **Zinc Concentrate Processing Fees Rise Significantly, and Zinc Ore Imports Remain High**: Since the fourth quarter of 2024, processing fees have rebounded. By June 2025, the average monthly domestic and foreign processing fees increased significantly. In the second half of the year, there is still room for growth, but the growth rate may slow down. From January to May 2025, the cumulative zinc concentrate imports increased by 52.5% year - on - year, and it is expected to maintain a high level in the second half of the year [35][36]. 3.2 Refined Zinc Supply - **Overseas Smelters Have a Mixture of Production Cuts and Expansions, and Supply Disruption Risks Remain**: From January to April 2025, the global refined zinc production decreased year - on - year. Overseas smelters had a mixture of production cuts and restarts. Due to high costs, there is a risk of production cuts in overseas smelters [41]. - **Refined Zinc Supply Recovers Strongly from January to June, and the Zinc Ingot Import Window Closes Again**: From January to June 2025, China's refined zinc production increased year - on - year. It is expected to maintain a high level of 550,000 - 600,000 tons per month in the second half of the year. The annual output is expected to reach 6.6 million tons, an increase of 6.84% year - on - year. The import of zinc ingots decreased year - on - year, and it is expected to remain weak in the second half of the year [47][48]. 3.3 Refined Zinc Demand - **Overseas Terminal Consumption Shows a Mixed Picture, and the Medium - to - Long - Term Outlook Is Uncertain**: In the first half of 2025, the global refined zinc demand decreased slightly year - on - year. In the US, the real - estate market was weak, and the auto market may slow down in the second half of the year. In the Eurozone, the real - estate market showed signs of improvement, and the auto market had a mixed performance [57][58][59]. - **Initial - Stage Enterprises' Operating Rates Are Expected to Decline, and Galvanized Steel Exports Remain Strong**: The operating rates of initial - stage enterprises followed the seasonal pattern. In the second half of the year, the operating rates are expected to decline in the third quarter and rebound in the fourth quarter. Galvanized steel exports were strong in the first half of the year but are expected to decline in the third quarter and stabilize in the fourth quarter [72][73]. - **Policy Support Increases, and Terminal Consumption Is Differentiated**: In the traditional consumption sector, infrastructure investment is expected to recover in the second half of the year, the real - estate market will continue to bottom out, the auto market will maintain good momentum, and the home - appliance market will face internal sales slowdown pressure. In the emerging consumption sector, the photovoltaic market may slow down, while the wind - power market is expected to maintain high growth [74][77][83]. 3.4 Inventory - **Overseas Inventory Continues to Decline from a High Level, and Domestic Inventory First Increases and Then Decreases**: In the first half of the year, the LME inventory continued to decline from a high level. In the second half of the year, it is expected to remain at a high level with a narrowing decline. The domestic inventory was at a relatively low level. In the second half of the year, there is still pressure to increase inventory in the third quarter, and it is expected to decline in the fourth quarter [92]. 4. Summary and Outlook - In the second half of the year, the global zinc concentrate supply may accelerate, and the annual increment will exceed 500,000 tons. The supply of refined zinc is expected to remain high, while the demand faces downward risks. Overall, the supply - demand surplus will expand, and the zinc price is expected to decline gradually, ranging from 21,000 to 23,000 yuan/ton, with a pattern of being lower first and then higher [94][96].

Group 1: Report Industry Investment Rating - Not provided in the content Group 2: Core Viewpoints of the Report - In the second half of the year, the lead market will show a pattern of increasing supply and demand. The supply of primary lead and recycled lead has new capacity plans, but the rigid constraints of raw material supply will limit the supply growth rate, with more prominent constraints for recycled lead. On the demand side, although there is an expectation of seasonal recovery, the consumption front - loading driven by policies may slow down the growth rate. It is expected that the inventory will remain at a neutral level, and the lead price is expected to range from 16,800 to 18,000 yuan/ton, with the center moving up. During the seasonal consumption recovery period, the price may show strong upward momentum [3]. Group 3: Summary by Relevant Catalogs I. Lead Market Review - In the first half of 2025, the main contract price of Shanghai lead futures fluctuated widely around the bottom area, ranging from 16,165 to 17,805 yuan/ton. By the end of June, the price closed at 17,200 yuan/ton, up 2.23% from the beginning of the year. LME lead fluctuated strongly in the first quarter and first declined then rose in the second quarter. By the end of June, it closed at 2,041.5 US dollars/ton, up 5.59% from the beginning of the year [8][9]. II. Lead Fundamental Analysis 2.1 Lead Ore Supply Situation - **2.1.1 Global Lead Concentrate Supply Recovering Slowly**: From January to April 2025, the global cumulative lead concentrate production was 1.4324 million tons, a year - on - year increase of 3.5%. From January to May 2025, the domestic cumulative lead concentrate production was 633,900 tons, a year - on - year increase of 12.61%. It is expected that the overseas increment will be 100,000 tons and the domestic increment will be around 70,000 tons, with a global lead mine production growth rate of 2.3% to 4.62 million tons [10][12]. - **2.1.2 Lead Concentrate Processing Fees Remaining Low, Silver Concentrate Import Demand Increasing**: As of June 2025, the average domestic and foreign lead concentrate processing fees were 600 yuan/metal ton and - 30 US dollars/dry ton respectively. In the second half of the year, the processing fees are expected to stabilize and may rise slightly in the fourth quarter. From January to May 2025, the cumulative lead concentrate import volume was 552,500 tons, a year - on - year increase of 40%. It is expected that the monthly import volume in the second half of the year will be between 130,000 and 150,000 tons. The import demand for silver concentrate is expected to remain high [20][21]. 2.2 Refined Lead Supply Situation - **2.2.1 Global Refined Lead Supply Growth Rate Moderate**: From January to April 2025, the global cumulative refined lead production was 4.3915 million tons, a year - on - year increase of 1.4%. It is predicted that the global refined lead production in 2025 will be 13.272 million tons, a year - on - year increase of 0.6% [26][28]. - **2.2.2 Stable Electrolytic Lead Production, Focus on New Project Commissioning in the Second Half of the Year**: From January to June 2025, the cumulative electrolytic lead production was 1.8902 million tons, a year - on - year increase of 9.5%. It is expected that the annual electrolytic lead production will increase by 5.6% year - on - year to 3.8 million tons [31][32]. - **2.2.3 Profit and Raw Material Shortage Restraining Production, High Production Interference Rate in the Second Half of the Year**: From January to June 2025, the cumulative recycled refined lead production was 1.5734 million tons, a year - on - year decrease of 4.35%. It is expected that the annual recycled refined lead production will be 3.1 million tons, a year - on - year decrease of 2% [37][39]. 2.3 Refined Lead Demand Situation - **2.3.1 Global Refined Lead Demand Situation**: From January to April 2025, the global cumulative refined lead consumption was 4.3697 million tons, a year - on - year increase of 2.66%. It is expected that the global refined lead demand in 2025 will increase by 1.5% to 13.19 million tons [44]. - **2.3.2 High Lead Battery Inventory, Focus on the Realization of the Traditional Consumption Peak Season in the Third Quarter**: In the first half of 2025, the lead battery enterprise start - up rate was slightly lower than the same period last year, and the finished product inventory and dealer inventory were at relatively high levels. In the second half of the year, the start - up rate is expected to improve in the third quarter, and the battery replacement demand will increase in the fourth quarter [51][57]. - **3.2.1 Unfavorable Shanghai - London Ratio for Lead Ingot and Battery Exports, Imports Supplementing Raw Material Ratio**: From January to May 2025, the cumulative net import volume of refined lead and lead products was 33,611 tons. In the second half of the year, the import volume is expected to rise in the third quarter and decline in the fourth quarter. The lead battery export volume decreased by 3.5% year - on - year from January to May 2025, and the decline is expected to narrow in the second half of the year [58][59]. - **2.3.2.2 Policy - Guided Marginal Improvement in Lead Battery Consumption Prospect**: In the automotive sector, the replacement demand for lead batteries is stable, and the new demand is growing. In the electric bicycle sector, the replacement demand is strong, and the new standard implementation and subsidy policy will boost consumption. In the energy storage sector, the demand for lead batteries has growth potential [64][69]. 2.4 High Overseas Inventory, Neutral Domestic Inventory - In the first half of 2025, the LME lead inventory was at a high level, and the domestic inventory was at a neutral level. In the second half of the year, the overseas inventory is expected to remain high, and the domestic inventory is expected to rise, but the inventory accumulation pressure will be relieved by the constraints on recycled lead production [77]. III. Summary and Outlook for the Future - In the second half of the year, the lead market will show a pattern of increasing supply and demand. The supply of primary lead and recycled lead has new capacity plans, but the rigid constraints of raw material supply will limit the supply growth rate, with more prominent constraints for recycled lead. The consumption side has seasonal recovery expectations, but the consumption front - loading may slow down the growth rate. It is expected that the inventory will remain at a neutral level, and the lead price is expected to range from 16,800 to 18,000 yuan/ton, with the center moving up [80].

Report Investment Rating No investment rating information is provided in the report. Core Viewpoint Based on the forecast of both supply and demand growth in the lead market in the second half of 2025, prices may show wide - range fluctuations. The main operating range of Shanghai lead is expected to be between 17,000 - 18,500 yuan/ton, with a price center of around 17,500 yuan/ton. The mismatch in the supply - demand structure of waste batteries is the main cause of current industrial contradictions and the core logic driving up waste battery prices. It is expected that the supply of waste batteries will remain tight in 2025. On the demand side, there is still some growth in the electric bicycle industry, but the growth rate of lead - acid batteries in the automotive industry may peak, and the growth rate of domestic demand for new batteries is showing differentiation. External demand performed well in the first half of the year due to the rush - to - export effect, and countries like India and Southeast Asian nations are expected to further expand their lead - acid battery markets, which will drive exports. Overall, with both supply and demand increasing, prices may return to wide - range fluctuations. It is recommended to focus on seasonal fluctuation opportunities [3][54]. Summary by Directory 1. 2025 H1 Lead Market Review - In Q1, lead prices fluctuated strongly. Affected by the production cut expectation of large battery factories at the beginning of the year, the main contract of Shanghai lead once fell below 16,500 yuan/ton. After the Spring Festival, due to the supply - demand mismatch, the downstream battery enterprises resumed production in advance, but the resumption of recycled lead production was restricted by raw material recycling and environmental protection, resulting in a significant supply gap. Coupled with the US tariff policy and the Fed's expected interest - rate cut, the lead price remained high. - In Q2, lead prices first declined and then rebounded. At the beginning of April, global trade frictions led to a sharp decline in lead prices. As the tariff situation eased, the industrial fundamentals supported the price. The price of waste batteries remained strong during the off - season, and recycled lead smelters cut production due to losses, which supported the rebound of Shanghai lead, but the upside was limited due to macro - level disturbances and weak downstream demand [9]. 2. 2025 H2 Lead Price Operation Logic: Supply and Demand Both Increase, Wide - Range Fluctuations 2.1 Frequent Disturbances in Overseas Lead Ore Supply, but There May Still Be Increases for the Whole Year - In Q1, overseas lead ore supply underperformed expectations, and the persistence of disturbances needs further evaluation. Although some mining companies lowered their 2025 production guidance, the overall supply may still increase. Global lead ore production has been rigid in recent years due to low capital expenditure in the lead ore sector. The intensified competition for lead ore from European smelters'复产 has made the shortage of domestic lead ore more prominent. - Many overseas mines faced challenges such as declining ore grades and external force majeure factors in H1 2025, which affected production. For example, Red Dog's zinc concentrate production decreased by 20% year - on - year, and NEXA's lead - zinc mines in Peru had a 31% year - on - year decline in lead concentrate production. - Domestic lead concentrate production increased in 2025, with a 12.61% year - on - year increase from January to May. It is expected that there will be an additional 6 - 8 million tons of lead concentrate production for the whole year. Due to the tight supply of lead concentrate, the processing fee has been declining, squeezing the profit of primary lead smelters, which now rely more on by - product revenues [11][12][15]. 2.2 Changes in the Supply - Demand Structure of Waste Batteries Affect Recycled Lead - The mismatch in the supply - demand structure of waste batteries is the main cause of industrial contradictions and the core logic for the rising price of waste batteries. On one hand, the capacity of domestic recycled lead disassembly and smelting has expanded rapidly, but the growth of waste battery generation has a bottleneck, resulting in a prominent supply - demand gap. On the other hand, the waste battery disassembly capacity of primary lead smelters has been increasing year by year [22]. 2.3 Differentiated Growth Rate of Domestic Demand for New Batteries, and Potential Improvement in External Demand Growth Rate - **Electric Bicycles**: There is an expected increase in the electric bicycle industry. The new national standard has solved consumer pain points and provided space for battery capacity expansion. The new standard allows for larger - capacity lead - acid batteries, which will significantly reduce the experience gap with lithium - ion batteries. The "trade - in" policy also enhances the competitiveness of lead - acid batteries. It is estimated that if the new standard is strictly implemented in 2025, the new lead element consumption may increase by 204,000 tons. - **Automobiles**: The growth rate of lead - acid batteries in the automotive industry may peak. Although lead - acid batteries still dominate the market due to their low cost and high maturity, the advancement of hybrid technology may lead to the replacement of lead - acid batteries with lithium - ion batteries in the long run. - **External Demand**: In January - April 2025, China's lead - acid battery exports increased by 1.83% year - on - year. Affected by the US tariff policy, there was a rush - to - export effect. India and Southeast Asian markets are expected to further expand, which will drive exports [38]. 3. Deepening of Traditional Seasonal Patterns, Anchoring Downstream Restocking Feedback - In Q2, the terminal entered the off - season, and the operating rate of downstream battery enterprises declined. However, the overall restocking space during the off - season still supported the tight supply - demand of lead ingots. Lead elements were more concentrated in the finished - product inventory of terminal dealers. - The production of waste batteries was still low during the off - season, and the price fluctuated weakly. The profitability of waste battery recyclers increased in Q2, indicating the tight supply of waste batteries and the intense competition among recycled lead smelters for raw materials [43].

Report Industry Investment Rating No relevant content provided. Core Viewpoints of the Report - The supply - demand situation of primary lead and recycled lead varies, with marginal increase in supply pressure. The off - season of lead - acid battery consumption continues, and the terminal sectors are slightly differentiated. Enterprises mainly accept long - term orders. With supply increasing and demand weak, there is insufficient upward drive for lead prices. However, due to the continuous existence of structural contradictions in raw material supply and demand, cost factors support lead prices. As the fundamental contradictions are not significantly intensified, it is expected that lead prices will maintain a wide - range oscillation [3][80]. Summary According to the Directory 1. Lead Market Review - In May 2025, Shanghai lead first increased and then decreased. In the first half of the month, with a series of domestic financial policies, the easing of Sino - US tariffs, and the strengthening of the interest - rate cut expectation due to the cooling of US inflation, the market risk appetite improved, and lead prices oscillated strongly. But it was difficult to break through the resistance at 17,000 yuan, and the price slightly回调. In the second half of the month, Moody's downgraded the US credit rating, and concerns about the US debt problem led to a decline in market risk appetite. Meanwhile, the arrival of crude lead eased the raw material pressure, the price of waste batteries decreased slightly, the cost loosened, and the off - season of consumption remained unchanged, with increasing inventory pressure. Lead prices gave back the gains from the first half of the month. By May 30, the futures price closed at 16,620 yuan/ton, with a monthly decline of 1.31%. - LME lead first declined, then rebounded, and finally oscillated sideways. At the beginning of the month, tariff concerns gradually cooled, and LME inventory slightly declined from a high level, so LME lead stabilized and rebounded. Subsequently, market sentiment fluctuated around economic pressure, inflation, and interest - rate cut expectations. In the second half of the month, LME inventory increased significantly, strengthening the expectation of overseas surplus, and the lead price was under pressure. The resistance at $2,000/ton was obvious, and the futures price slightly declined and oscillated. Finally, it closed at $1,963.5/ton, with a monthly increase of 0.98% [8]. 2. Lead Fundamental Analysis 2.1 Lead Ore Supply Situation - **Global lead concentrate supply is slowly recovering**: In March 2025, global lead concentrate production was 367,000 tons, a month - on - month increase of 19.2% and a year - on - year increase of 1.21%. The cumulative production from January to March was 1.028 million tons, a cumulative year - on - year increase of 0.5%. ILZSG predicts that the global lead mine production in 2025 is expected to increase by 2.3% to 4.62 million tons. Overseas lead mines are producing steadily, and domestic lead concentrate production is also increasing. It is estimated that the global lead concentrate increment in 2025 is 160,000 tons, with 90,000 tons overseas and 70,000 tons in China. The contradiction of supply - demand mismatch in lead concentrate is expected to persist in the medium term [10][11]. - **Lead concentrate processing fees decline month - on - month, and lead concentrate imports decrease month - on - month**: In June 2025, the average monthly processing fees for domestic and overseas lead concentrates were 600 yuan/metal ton and - 30 dollars/dry ton respectively, with a month - on - month decrease of 60 yuan/metal ton and - 10 dollars/dry ton respectively. In April 2025, lead concentrate imports were 111,050 tons, a month - on - month decrease of 4.3% and a year - on - year increase of 22.13%. The cumulative imports from January to April were 448,700 physical tons, a cumulative year - on - year increase of 41%. The import of silver concentrate also decreased in April. The supply - demand gap of lead concentrate exists in the long - term, and there is still a slight downward pressure on processing fees [19]. 2.2 Refined Lead Supply Situation - **Global refined lead supply growth is gentle**: In March 2025, global refined lead production was 1.1316 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 6.9% and a year - on - year increase of 1.72%. The cumulative production from January to March was 3.2584 million tons, a cumulative year - on - year increase of 0.7%. ILZSG predicts that the global refined lead production in 2025 will be 13.272 million tons, a year - on - year increase of 0.6%. Overseas, there are no large - scale new refineries in recent years, mainly relying on the resumption and ramping - up of previous shut - down refineries. In China, new recycled lead refineries are the main focus, but projects are often postponed due to raw material constraints [25]. - **Electrolytic lead production in April was lower than expected, and supply mainly recovered in May**: In May 2025, electrolytic lead production was 331,200 tons, slightly lower than expected, a month - on - month increase of 3.53% and a year - on - year increase of 14.7%. The cumulative production from January to May was 1.562 million tons, a cumulative year - on - year increase of 8.2%. In June, due to more refinery overhauls and tightened lead concentrate supply, it is expected that electrolytic lead production will be 320,400 tons, a month - on - month decrease of 3.3%. For the whole year of 2025, electrolytic lead supply is expected to increase steadily [31]. - **The price of waste batteries moves up, and recycled lead refineries gradually resume production**: In May 2025, the average price of waste batteries was 10,200 yuan/ton at the end of the month, a decrease of 100 yuan/ton from the beginning of the month. In June, the price of waste batteries is expected to move up slightly. In May, recycled refined lead production was 223,500 tons, significantly lower than expected, a month - on - month decrease of 36.4% and a year - on - year decrease of 16.5%. In June, production is expected to rebound to 267,900 tons, a month - on - month increase of 19.9%, but the raw material supply problem still needs attention [36][37]. 2.3 Refined Lead Demand Situation - **Global refined lead demand situation**: In March 2025, global refined lead consumption was 1.1383 million tons, a month - on - month increase of 9.4% and a year - on - year increase of 3.37%. The cumulative consumption from January to March was 3.242 million tons, a cumulative year - on - year increase of 2.3%. ILZSG predicts that the global refined lead demand in 2025 is expected to increase by 1.5% to 13.19 million tons. In 2025, global refined lead supply will exceed demand by 82,000 tons. The uncertainty of Trump's tariff policy has a negative impact on the lead - battery demand in the automotive industry [46][47]. - **Lead - battery consumption is in the off - season, and sectors are differentiated**: In May, lead - battery enterprises maintained the characteristics of the seasonal off - season, with the five - province battery enterprise operating rate at 70.45% at the end of May. The production of electric - bicycle and automotive lead - battery markets changed little, while the operating rate of energy - storage battery enterprises was relatively good. After the Dragon Boat Festival, the operating rate may rebound slightly but will remain in the range of 70 - 73% [54]. - **The Shanghai - London ratio is not conducive to lead ingot and battery exports**: In April 2025, the refined lead export volume was 3,368 tons, a month - on - month increase of 19.09% and a year - on - year increase of 15.54%. The refined lead import volume in April was 4,734 tons, a year - on - year increase of 3496.9% and a month - on - month increase of 65.1%. The lead - battery export volume in April was 2.0463 million units, a year - on - year increase of 11.6% and a month - on - month increase of 8.3%. The reduction of Sino - US tariffs is beneficial to battery exports [55]. - **Policy guidance improves the lead - battery consumption prospect marginally**: In the terminal demand of lead - batteries, automotive and electric - bicycle batteries account for a large proportion. In the automotive sector, the lead - battery demand is strong, with both replacement and new - car supporting demands increasing. In the electric - bicycle sector, policies such as trade - in and the new national standard are beneficial to lead - battery consumption. In the energy - storage sector, the market scale is growing, and lead - battery demand also has growth potential [69][70][71]. 2.4 Overseas Inventory First Decreases and Then Increases, and There is Pressure on Domestic Inventory Accumulation - In May, LME inventory first decreased and then increased. By May 30, the inventory was 284,200 tons, a monthly increase of 20,000 tons. The domestic social inventory first increased and then decreased. By May 29, the inventory was 49,400 tons, a monthly increase of 4,600 tons. In June, inventory is expected to rise again, but the accumulation volume is limited [76][78]. 3. Summary and Outlook for the Future - The supply - demand imbalance of lead concentrate remains unchanged. In June, the domestic and overseas processing fees decreased slightly. The electrolytic lead production in May increased month - on - month but was slightly lower than expected, and it decreased in June. The recycled lead production decreased significantly in May and increased in June, but the resumption rhythm is restricted by raw material supply and profitability. The demand for electric - bicycle and automotive lead - batteries remains in the off - season, while the energy - storage battery demand is supported. The Shanghai - London ratio has limited boost to lead ingot exports. In the long - term, policy supports consumption, but the demand growth rate is stable but not strong. Overall, the supply pressure increases marginally, and lead prices are expected to oscillate widely [80].

Group 1: Report Industry Investment Rating - No relevant content provided Group 2: Core Views of the Report - The US economy shows signs of weakness, but inflation continues to decline and employment remains resilient. The Fed's policy stance remains cautious. The intensifying game between the US administration and the judiciary has increased the uncertainty of the global trade pattern. In China, the lack of endogenous economic momentum and the long - term impact of the China - US trade game pose great pressure on the export outlook, leading to rising expectations for increased fiscal policies [4][82]. - The supply of zinc concentrates has shifted from tight to loose globally. Overseas new mine capacity has been released smoothly, and domestic raw material inflows have increased. The overall supply remains loose, with both domestic and foreign processing fees rising month - on - month. In June, the supply of refined zinc recovered significantly and is expected to remain high in July [4][82]. - On the demand side, the local debt resolution process restricts the efficiency of infrastructure funds, and infrastructure performance is "stable but not strong". The demand in the real estate and photovoltaic sectors has weakened marginally. Thanks to the tariff suspension and policy support, the automotive and home appliance industries maintain their prosperity, and the export of galvanized sheets remains resilient [4][82]. - Overall, the drag effect of anti - globalization tariff measures on the global economy is emerging, and its uncertainty exacerbates market sentiment fluctuations. The fundamentals show a pattern of increasing supply and weakening demand. The market is shifting from "strong reality" to "weak expectation", and an inventory inflection point is looming. Zinc prices are expected to remain weakly volatile [4][83]. Group 3: Summary According to the Directory 1. Zinc Market Review - In May 2025, the main contract price of SHFE zinc oscillated in a low - level range. Affected by multiple factors, the zinc price did not change its oscillating trend, closing at 22,225 yuan/ton with a monthly decline of 0.96%. LME zinc showed a trend of rising first and then falling, closing at 2,629.5 US dollars/ton with a monthly increase of 1.9% [9]. 2. Macroeconomic Analysis 2.1 US - US economic data has weakened, with manufacturing and non - manufacturing expansion slowing. Retail sales and durable goods orders have declined. However, the employment market remains resilient, and inflation pressure has eased. The Fed maintains a cautious attitude towards interest rate cuts, and the market generally expects a rate cut in September. The tariff policy is full of uncertainties [12][13]. 2.2 Eurozone - The Eurozone's recovery is weak, with the manufacturing PMI contracting. GDP growth is lower than expected, and inflation continues to decline. The ECB cut interest rates in June, and the market expects another rate cut in September. The EU - US tariff negotiation is tense, adding challenges to the Eurozone's economic recovery [15]. 2.3 China - China's economic data in April mostly declined, and the impact of tariffs is beginning to show. Although the export in April exceeded expectations, the manufacturing PMI is still below the boom - bust line, and the non - manufacturing PMI declined month - on - month, indicating insufficient domestic demand. The market expects increased fiscal policies [16][17]. 3. Zinc Fundamental Analysis 3.1 Zinc Ore Supply - **Global zinc concentrate supply shift**: In March 2025, global mine zinc production increased. Overseas production increased by 4.4% year - on - year from January to March, and China's production increased by 2.3%. Although there were short - term disturbances overseas, the impact on production was limited. In China, the production of zinc concentrates in April was slightly higher than expected, and it is expected to increase in May. The annual domestic zinc ore increment is expected to be 90,000 metal tons [27][29]. - **Zinc concentrate processing fees and imports**: In June 2025, domestic and foreign processing fees increased month - on - month. In April, the import of zinc concentrates exceeded expectations, and it is expected to remain at a high level in May [34][35]. 3.2 Refined Zinc Supply - **Overseas refineries**: Global refined zinc production in March 2025 increased month - on - month but decreased year - on - year. Overseas refineries have a situation of both production cuts and expansions, and the risk of supply disruptions still exists [37]. - **Domestic refined zinc**: In May 2025, domestic refined zinc production decreased slightly month - on - month but increased year - on - year. It is expected to increase significantly in June. In April, the import of refined zinc increased slightly month - on - month, and the import window opened in late April [43][44]. 3.3 Refined Zinc Demand - **Overseas terminal consumption**: In March 2025, global refined zinc consumption increased. In the overseas market, the real estate and automotive sectors showed short - term recoveries, but the medium - and long - term consumption prospects are unclear due to factors such as high interest rates and tariff uncertainties [47][48]. - **Domestic initial - stage enterprises and exports**: In early May, the operating rates of domestic initial - stage enterprises were relatively stable. In June, there is an expectation of a slight decline due to seasonal factors. The export of galvanized sheets has continued its strong momentum since 2024, but the growth of new export orders may be limited in May [59][60]. - **Domestic terminal consumption**: Infrastructure investment is expected to remain stable, but there is a seasonal decline expectation in June - July. The real estate market remains weak but shows signs of weak recovery. The automotive industry maintains a high level of prosperity, and the home appliance industry shows resilience but faces medium - and long - term slowdown pressure. The demand in the photovoltaic sector may weaken marginally [61][70]. 3.4 Inventory - LME inventory continued to decline from a high level in May, and the domestic social inventory first increased and then decreased. The inventory inflection point is approaching as the supply recovers strongly in June and is expected to remain high in July [79]. Group 4: Summary and Outlook - The macro - environment is complex, with the US economic situation and trade uncertainties affecting the global market. China's economic export faces pressure, and there are expectations for increased fiscal policies. The supply of zinc is abundant, while the demand is weak, and zinc prices are expected to remain weakly volatile [82][83].