Core Insights - The dairy industry is entering a new phase characterized by "structural differentiation" as liquid milk business growth slows down, leading to intensified competition focused on technology, supply chain, and brand value [1][2][4] Group 1: Industry Performance - In the first three quarters of 2025, 13 out of 19 listed dairy companies in A-shares reported revenue declines, primarily due to the slowdown in liquid milk business [2] - For example, Yili's liquid milk revenue fell to 54.939 billion yuan in the first three quarters of 2025, a year-on-year decrease of 4.44% [2] - The overall sales of liquid milk in China dropped by 7.5% year-on-year from January to May 2025, with a further decline to 9.6% in June [2] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The market is experiencing intensified price wars, with significant price reductions observed in various milk products, leading to profit erosion for companies [3] - In the first three quarters of 2025, the total revenue of 19 listed dairy companies reached 140.852 billion yuan, with Yili, Guangming, and New Dairy accounting for 83.07% of this total [3] Group 3: Strategic Shifts - The industry is shifting from a focus on volume growth to quality and structural improvements, with companies emphasizing diversified and refined consumer needs [4] - Companies are increasingly investing in product innovation and new consumption scenarios to adapt to changing market demands, indicating a potential structural improvement in the liquid milk market by 2026 [4] Group 4: Capital Market Activity - In 2025, niche dairy companies and regional brands are increasingly pursuing IPOs, with companies like Baifei Dairy and Yipin Nutrition making significant moves in the capital market [5][6] - The trend indicates a growing interest in high-value segments such as water buffalo milk and goat milk powder, as well as regional brands with local supply chain advantages [6] Group 5: Mergers and Acquisitions - The dairy industry is witnessing accelerated mergers and acquisitions as companies seek to optimize asset portfolios and enhance efficiency amid increasing competition [8][10] - Notable transactions include Mengniu's sale of its New Zealand factory and Guangming's asset sale to Abbott, reflecting strategic adjustments to market changes [8][10] - Analysts suggest that the consolidation trend will continue, focusing on acquiring quality milk sources and enhancing regional distribution channels [10]