Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Accumulate" rating for the company with a target price of HKD 7.46 [8][9]. Core Views - The company's revenue for 2024 is projected at RMB 27.757 billion, a slight decrease of 0.89% year-on-year, while the net profit attributable to shareholders is expected to decline by 26.45% to RMB 2.312 billion [7]. - The report highlights that the company's net profit for 2024 exceeded expectations due to strong sales of monosodium glutamate and higher interest income [1]. - The outlook for the monosodium glutamate market is optimistic, with expectations of price recovery and improved profitability in the coming years [3][5]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In 2024, the company achieved a revenue of RMB 27.757 billion, down 0.89% year-on-year, and a net profit of RMB 2.312 billion, down 26.45% year-on-year [7]. - The company plans to distribute a cash dividend of RMB 9.3 billion, with a payout ratio of 40% [1]. Segment Performance - The food additives segment saw a revenue increase of 6% to RMB 144 billion, driven by higher sales of monosodium glutamate and starch sweeteners, although the gross margin decreased by 5.2 percentage points to 10.8% due to falling prices [2]. - The animal nutrition segment's revenue decreased by 2% to RMB 87 billion, while the high-end amino acids segment grew by 12% to RMB 22 billion [2]. Market Outlook - The report anticipates a recovery in the amino acid market in 2025, with prices for monosodium glutamate expected to rise due to improved demand and lower raw material costs [3][5]. - The company is expanding its overseas production bases and enhancing its market position in monosodium glutamate [4]. Profit Forecast and Valuation - The net profit forecasts for 2025 and 2026 have been raised to RMB 2.419 billion and RMB 2.606 billion, respectively, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 4% and 8% [5]. - The report sets a target price of HKD 7.46 based on a 7x PE valuation for 2025, considering the company's improving profitability and market conditions [5].