Core Viewpoint - The global chemical industry is undergoing significant transformation, with China rapidly rising to dominate the market while Europe faces declining competitiveness and substantial operational challenges [3][4][7]. Group 1: Global Chemical Industry Landscape - In 2023, global chemical sales reached €5.2 trillion, with China accounting for €2.2 trillion, representing a 43% market share, an increase of 9 percentage points over the past decade [9]. - The EU remains the second-largest chemical market, but its share has decreased from 16% in 2013 to 13% in 2023 [9]. - The trend of "East rising, West declining" is evident, making investment in China a consensus choice among global investors [17]. Group 2: European Chemical Industry Challenges - The chemical sector is a cornerstone of the European economy, with a trade surplus of €52 billion in 2023, but is now under severe pressure due to rising energy costs and regulatory burdens [25][29]. - The conflict in Ukraine has led to soaring natural gas prices, significantly impacting the competitiveness of European chemical producers [34]. - Approximately 11 million tons of chemical production capacity in Europe has been permanently shut down in recent years, with ongoing indications of further closures [50]. Group 3: China's Chemical Industry Growth - China's chemical production capacity continues to expand, with the country leading in basic chemical raw materials and rapidly growing in fine chemicals [4][61]. - In 2024, China's total chemical industry output is projected to reach ¥16.3 trillion, accounting for about 12% of the national industrial output [57]. - China is expected to produce over half of the world's chemical products by 2030, with capital expenditures and R&D investments leading globally at 46% and 32%, respectively [17][81]. Group 4: Investment Trends and Strategic Shifts - European chemical companies are increasingly investing in China, with BASF committing €10 billion to build an integrated production base in Zhanjiang [89]. - The shift in investment focus from Europe to Asia is evident, with major companies like BASF and INEOS adjusting their strategies to enhance competitiveness in the Chinese market [54][89]. - Cross-national companies are establishing R&D centers in China to better align with local market demands and leverage China's growing innovation capabilities [94].