Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly state an investment rating for the animal health industry, but it highlights potential growth areas such as pet pharmaceuticals and international expansion [1]. Core Insights - The animal health industry is experiencing a slowdown in growth, with increasing competition leading to a "Matthew Effect" where larger companies gain more market share at the expense of smaller firms [3][39]. - The industry is shifting back to a research and development-driven model, with innovation becoming crucial for future growth [4][83]. - The pet pharmaceutical market and international expansion are identified as key areas for long-term growth, with pet medical consumption projected to reach approximately 84 billion yuan in 2024 [5][78]. Summary by Sections 1. Overview of the Animal Health Industry - The animal health industry, also known as the veterinary drug industry, includes a wide range of products such as vaccines, antibiotics, and feed additives [11][12]. - The market size has grown from 50.395 billion yuan in 2019 to 69.651 billion yuan in 2023, with a CAGR of 8.43% [3][12]. 2. Increasing Competition and Market Dynamics - The industry is facing a slowdown in growth, with sales increasing from 62.095 billion yuan in 2020 to 69.651 billion yuan in 2023, while average gross profit has decreased from 21.998 billion yuan to 21.297 billion yuan [3][39]. - The "Matthew Effect" is evident as larger companies leverage their product portfolios and R&D investments to capture more market share [3][52]. 3. Shift Towards R&D and Innovation - The industry is moving away from its cyclical nature, with a focus on integrated strategies and innovation to counteract competitive pressures [4][69]. - The average profit per head in self-breeding pig farming is expected to improve significantly in 2024, indicating potential for recovery in related sectors [4][62]. 4. Growth Opportunities in Pet Pharmaceuticals and Exports - The pet medical market is projected to grow rapidly, with a significant increase in demand for preventive care and treatment as pet owners become more health-conscious [5][78]. - The report highlights the successful export of domestic pet pharmaceuticals, marking a breakthrough in international markets [5][78]. 5. Key Companies to Watch - Companies such as 瑞普生物 (Reap Bio), 科前生物 (KQ Bio), and 回盛生物 (Hui Sheng Bio) are recommended for attention due to their innovative approaches and market positioning [6].