Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call on Spandex Industry Industry Overview - The spandex market started sluggishly in 2026, but industry inventory is at a lower mid-level, with leading companies holding low inventory, indicating a potential recovery in the industry [1][3] - In 2025, spandex prices hit a historical low with an annual decline of approximately 4%, while demand growth was close to 9%, ranking among the top three historical increments [1][2] Market Performance and Capacity - By the end of 2025, global spandex capacity reached 1.96 million tons, a year-on-year increase of 12.3%, with China's capacity at 1.533 million tons, up 13.1%, marking a five-year high [5][6] - The average operating rate in the spandex industry for 2025 was about 80%, the second-lowest in history, with high inventory levels but a decrease in the second half of the year [8] Demand Drivers - Demand for spandex is benefiting from the expansion of applications in sun protection products, home textiles, and casual menswear, along with an increase in the number of downstream weaving machines [9] - The trend of increasing spandex content in home textiles, such as high-density knitted bedding and industrial applications, is expected to continue driving demand growth [12][13] Price Dynamics - Spandex prices are at historical lows, with a price difference of approximately 10,600 yuan, a year-on-year decrease of about 12% [4] - The recent price increase is primarily led by major companies, with a two-phase increase of 1,000 yuan per ton expected [20][21] Future Outlook - The spandex industry is expected to see a recovery in supply-demand relationships, with a projected supply-demand ratio narrowing to around 1.38 in 2026, similar to levels during the supply-side reform period in 2017 [17] - Demand growth is anticipated to remain around 8% due to various factors, including the implementation of health initiatives and increasing comfort requirements [18][24] Challenges and Risks - Despite the positive outlook, the industry faces challenges such as cash flow issues for many companies and potential market exits due to high costs [2][21] - The overall market may experience a U-shaped trajectory with periodic rebounds, influenced by supply-demand dynamics and external economic factors [19] Conclusion - The spandex industry is poised for a recovery, driven by low inventory levels, increasing demand from various sectors, and strategic price adjustments by leading companies. However, ongoing challenges related to cash flow and market competition will need to be monitored closely [28][29]

Core Viewpoint - The spandex industry is currently experiencing a supply-demand imbalance, with a potential recovery expected around 2026-27, despite short-term disruptions due to an uncontrollable incident at a spandex factory in Zhejiang [1][2]. Industry Overview - The spandex industry is in a new phase of rapid capacity expansion, with production capacity increasing from 892,000 tons in 2020 to an estimated 1,402,000 tons by 2024, reflecting a CAGR of approximately 12.0%. The capacity growth rate for 2023 is particularly high at 19.2% [2]. - Despite the increasing usage of spandex in synthetic fibers, demand growth is lagging behind supply growth, leading to a prolonged period of low industry profitability [2]. Profitability Outlook - As of September 2025, spandex prices are at a historical low of 23,000 yuan per ton, with a price spread of 10,500 yuan per ton. Leading companies are experiencing a net profit of approximately 1,200 yuan per ton, indicating that the industry is likely in a state of cash flow loss [3]. - The current operational conditions are unsustainable, and the industry may seek a new balance through adjustments in operating rates. There is significant potential for profitability recovery in the medium to long term [3]. Investment Focus - Companies to watch in the spandex sector include Huafeng Chemical (002064.SZ) and Taihe New Materials (002254.SZ), which are expected to benefit from the anticipated recovery in the industry [1].