Core Viewpoint - The Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange has optimized the caustic soda futures delivery system to enhance its functionality and service to the industry, including increasing the premium for alternative delivery products and expanding delivery regions [1][2][3]. Delivery System Optimization - The premium for 50% concentration caustic soda has been raised from 80 yuan/ton to 150 yuan/ton to encourage more participation in delivery and reduce overall storage costs [1][2]. - The delivery regions have been expanded from Shandong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shaanxi to include Hebei, Tianjin, and Guangdong, with specified premium standards for these new areas [1][4]. Market Dynamics - Caustic soda futures have seen rapid market growth since their launch in September 2023, with an average daily trading volume of 683,000 contracts in the first half of 2025, a 528% year-on-year increase, and an average open interest of 303,000 contracts, up 319% [1]. - The caustic soda industry is characterized by strong regionality, with significant demand from downstream industries, particularly alumina production, which accounts for about 30% of consumption [3][4]. Regional Demand and Supply - Hebei has become the third-largest caustic soda demand region in China, with a projected demand of 2.9 million tons in 2024, creating a supply gap of 1.4 million tons [4]. - Tianjin is expected to account for 20% of the national caustic soda export volume in 2024, while Guangdong serves as a trade and storage hub for caustic soda in South China, with a demand of 1.4 million tons and a supply gap of approximately 1 million tons [4][5]. Impact on Market Participation - The optimization of the delivery system is expected to enhance the participation of traders in the futures market, particularly in regions with growing consumption potential [5][6]. - The adjustment in delivery standards is anticipated to improve the efficiency of pricing and increase the willingness of producers and traders to engage in hedging activities [5][6].

Core Viewpoint - The price of caustic soda futures continues to rise, driven by policy expectations, industry chain resonance, and cost support from low liquid chlorine prices, indicating a bullish market sentiment [1][2][3]. Group 1: Policy Expectations - Recent market discussions around "anti-involution" reforms have led to a rebound in commodity markets, with supply-side reform expectations boosting market confidence [1]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is set to implement a new growth plan for ten key industries, which is expected to enhance structural adjustments and eliminate outdated production capacity [1]. Group 2: Industry Chain Resonance - The chemical industry outlook has improved due to policies aimed at phasing out outdated hazardous chemical production processes, leading to significant price increases in upstream and downstream products such as alumina, coking coal, and soda ash [2]. - Coking coal prices are rising, providing strong cost support for caustic soda, while alumina, a major downstream product, is experiencing price increases due to policy expectations and structural supply-demand imbalances [2]. Group 3: Current Supply and Demand Analysis - As of July 17, 2025, the caustic soda capacity utilization rate is 82.6%, with production at 809,700 tons, reflecting a month-on-month increase [4]. - Liquid caustic soda inventory is at 383,900 tons, showing a month-on-month increase of 2.56%, while flake caustic soda inventory is at 24,000 tons, also reflecting a month-on-month increase [8]. Group 4: Demand Side - The alumina industry maintains a high production level, supporting caustic soda demand, while the viscose staple fiber sector is also showing slight improvements in production and operating rates [12]. - Non-alumina demand remains weak, primarily driven by essential purchasing needs, with some resistance to high prices from certain enterprises [12]. Group 5: Cost and Profit Analysis - Liquid chlorine prices in Shandong are maintaining a low level, providing some cost support for caustic soda production [17]. - The overall profit margins for the chlor-alkali industry are at a low point but have shown slight recovery, although rising coal prices and high electricity loads may increase production costs [17]. Group 6: Market Outlook - Short-term market sentiment is driven by expectations of phasing out old production facilities, with improved downstream operations and a potential increase in inventory replenishment as the market atmosphere warms [21]. - Future attention should be given to the impact of new production capacity and the implementation of anti-involution policies on the supply side, as well as the potential negative effects of further declines in liquid chlorine prices on caustic soda costs and profits [21].

1. Report Industry Investment Rating No information provided. 2. Core Viewpoints of the Report - The PVC fundamentals are difficult to drive the market upward continuously. After the weakening of macro - sentiment, the PVC rebound is limited. The supply side has high upstream开工 and new capacity, while the demand side has weak domestic demand and neutral exports, and the social inventory is accumulating [3]. - The market sentiment of caustic soda has been significantly boosted, and the caustic soda futures have been running strongly recently. The supply side has new production expectations, and the demand side has rigid support from the alumina industry, but the non - aluminum demand is weak. The inventory pressure is expected to increase [3]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs Market News and Important Data PVC - Futures price and basis: The closing price of the PVC main contract is 5151 yuan/ton (- 109), the East China basis is - 101 yuan/ton (+ 99), and the South China basis is - 131 yuan/ton (+ 29) [1]. - Spot price: The East China calcium carbide method quotation is 5050 yuan/ton (- 10), and the South China calcium carbide method quotation is 5020 yuan/ton (- 80) [1]. - Upstream production profit: The semi - coke price is 535 yuan/ton (+ 0), the calcium carbide price is 2805 yuan/ton (- 25), the calcium carbide profit is 87 yuan/ton (- 25), the PVC calcium carbide method production gross profit is - 315 yuan/ton (+ 130), the PVC ethylene method production gross profit is - 595 yuan/ton (+ 26), and the PVC export profit is - 16.4 US dollars/ton (- 2.6) [1]. - Inventory and开工: The PVC factory inventory is 36.8 tons (- 1.4), the PVC social inventory is 41.1 tons (+ 1.8), the PVC calcium carbide method开工 rate is 77.52% (+ 0.59%), the PVC ethylene method开工 rate is 68.31% (- 1.92%), and the PVC开工 rate is 74.97% (- 0.10%) [1]. - Downstream order situation: The pre - sales volume of production enterprises is 69.6 tons (+ 0.6) [1]. Caustic Soda - Futures price and basis: The closing price of the SH main contract is 2644 yuan/ton (- 14), and the basis of 32% liquid caustic soda in Shandong is - 50 yuan/ton (+ 14) [1]. - Spot price: The quotation of 32% liquid caustic soda in Shandong is 830 yuan/ton (+ 0), and the quotation of 50% liquid caustic soda in Shandong is 1340 yuan/ton (+ 0) [2]. - Upstream production profit: The single - variety profit of caustic soda in Shandong is 1603 yuan/ton (+ 0), the comprehensive profit of chlor - alkali in Shandong (0.8 tons of liquid chlorine) is 459.5 yuan/ton (+ 0.0), the comprehensive profit of chlor - alkali in Shandong (1 ton of PVC) is 592.53 yuan/ton (+ 35.00), and the comprehensive profit of chlor - alkali in the Northwest (1 ton of PVC) is 1719.84 yuan/ton (+ 271.52) [2]. - Inventory and开工: The liquid caustic soda factory inventory is 38.39 tons (+ 0.96), the flake caustic soda factory inventory is 2.40 tons (+ 0.04), and the caustic soda开工 rate is 82.60% (+ 2.20%) [2]. - Downstream开工: The alumina开工 rate is 83.61% (+ 0.33%), the dyeing and printing开工 rate in East China is 58.89% (+ 0.00%), and the viscose staple fiber开工 rate is 84.55% (+ 6.75%) [2]. Market Analysis PVC - Policy may lead to expectations of eliminating old - fashioned PVC production capacity, but the fundamentals are difficult to drive the market upward. The supply side has high开工 and new capacity, the demand side has weak domestic demand and neutral exports, and the social inventory is accumulating [3]. Caustic Soda - The market sentiment has been boosted by the possible elimination of old - fashioned caustic soda production capacity. The supply side has new production expectations, the demand side has rigid support from the alumina industry, but the non - aluminum demand is weak, and the inventory pressure is expected to increase [3]. Strategy PVC - Unilateral: Neutral. The market rebound may be limited due to the cooling of macro - sentiment and insufficient fundamental drivers [4]. - Inter - delivery spread: Do reverse spreads when the V09 - 01 spread is high [4]. Caustic Soda - Unilateral: Cautiously go long for hedging. The cost support of caustic soda is strengthened, and the caustic soda market is expected to continue to be strong [5].

Group 1 - The recent surge in commodity futures prices has attracted widespread market attention, with polysilicon contracts reaching over 50,000 yuan/ton, marking a more than 70% increase from late June [1] - Coking coal contracts also showed strong performance, closing at over 1,100 yuan/ton, reflecting a rebound of over 50% from early June [1] - Other commodities such as industrial silicon and coke have also seen significant price increases, with industrial silicon surpassing 10,000 yuan/ton, a nearly 50% rise since early June [2] Group 2 - The central government's recent meeting emphasized addressing key challenges, including regulating low-price competition and promoting integrated development of domestic and foreign trade [2] - Analysts attribute the commodity price surge to a combination of economic recovery expectations, supply rigidity, and liquidity premiums, with both the US and China manufacturing PMIs returning to expansion territory [2] - The chemical industry is expected to see a recovery in the second half of 2025, driven by reduced capital expenditure and a resurgence in domestic demand [3] Group 3 - Companies with market capitalizations below 10 billion yuan and institutional ratings include those in the pig farming, coal, glass, and organic silicon sectors [3] - Yaxing Chemical, with a market cap of approximately 2.644 billion yuan, specializes in chlorinated polyethylene and other chemical products [4] - Dongrui Co., a modern agricultural enterprise, operates a full industry chain in pig farming, while Beibo Co. focuses on glass deep processing equipment [4]

1. Report Industry Investment Rating No relevant content provided in the report. 2. Core Viewpoints of the Report - PVC: The supply - demand situation has weakened, with continuous inventory accumulation and declining downstream product start - up rates. New production capacity is expected to be put into operation, and domestic demand is affected by the real estate market. However, due to the influence of eliminating backward production capacity and short - term strong macro - policy and sentiment, it is expected to be oscillatingly strong before policy implementation. There is a risk of price decline if policy support is weak or sentiment cools down [8][10]. - Caustic soda: The futures price has strengthened due to the elimination of backward production capacity. Fundamentally, the alumina industry is stable, but the caustic soda inventory has increased, non - aluminum demand is weak, and new production capacity is expected to be put into operation. Before policy implementation, it is expected to be oscillatingly strong, and there is a risk of price decline if policy support is weak or sentiment cools down [9][10]. 3. Summary by Relevant Catalogs 3.1 First Part: Related Data 3.1.1 PVC - related Data - Futures prices: V2605 decreased by 97 yuan to 5466 yuan, a decline of 1.74%; V2509 decreased by 109 yuan to 5151 yuan, a decline of 2.07%; V2601 decreased by 105 yuan to 5269 yuan, a decline of 1.95% [4]. - Main contract positions: 865,000 lots, unchanged from the previous day, a decline of 0.02% [4]. - Warehouse receipts: 55,000 lots, unchanged [4]. - Basis and spread: V 9 - 1 spread decreased by 4 yuan to - 118 yuan, a change of 3.51%; V1 - 5 spread decreased by 8 yuan to - 197 yuan, a change of 4.23% [4]. - Spot prices: East China SG - 5 decreased by 40 yuan to 4960 yuan, a decline of 0.80%; South China SG - 5 increased by 10 yuan to 5010 yuan, an increase of 0.20% [4]. - Spot spreads: The South China - East China SG5 spread increased by 50 yuan to 50 yuan; the East China - North China SG5 spread decreased by 40 yuan to 240 yuan [4]. - Cost and profit: Wuhai calcium carbide remained at 2250 yuan; Shandong calcium carbide decreased by 50 yuan to 2730 yuan; Shandong's externally - purchased calcium carbide method profit increased by 88 yuan to - 293 yuan [4]. 3.1.2 Caustic Soda - related Data - Futures prices: SH508 decreased by 4 yuan to 2587 yuan, a decline of 0.15%; SH509 decreased by 14 yuan to 2644 yuan, a decline of 0.53%; SH601 decreased by 44 yuan to 2655 yuan, a decline of 1.63% [4]. - Main contract positions: 115,600 lots, a decrease of 14,100 lots from the previous day, a decline of 10.91% [4]. - Warehouse receipts: 0 lots, unchanged [4]. - Basis and spread: SH 8 - 9 spread increased by 10 yuan to - 57 yuan, a change of - 14.93%; SH9 - 1 spread increased by 30 yuan to - 11 yuan, a change of - 73.17% [4]. - Spot prices: Shandong 32% decreased by 10 yuan to 810 yuan, a decline of 1.22%; Xinjiang flake caustic soda increased by 150 yuan to 3100 yuan, an increase of 5.08% [4]. - Spot spreads: The Shandong 50% - 32% spread increased by 31 yuan to 159 yuan, an increase of 24.51%; the Guangdong flake caustic soda - Guangdong 50% spread increased by 3170 yuan to 3750 yuan, an increase of 546.55% [4]. - Cost and profit: Shandong raw salt price remained at 210 yuan; Shandong caustic soda profit decreased by 31 yuan to 643 yuan; 50% caustic soda export profit decreased by 2 yuan to - 61 yuan [4]. 3.2 Second Part: Market Analysis 3.2.1 Market Review - PVC: Changzhou SG - 5 spot price was 4960 - 5080 yuan/ton, a decrease of 40 yuan/ton; Guangzhou SG - 5 spot price was 5010 - 5080 yuan/ton, a change of + 10/ - 30 yuan/ton [5]. - Caustic soda: In Shandong, the mainstream transaction price of 32% ion - exchange membrane caustic soda decreased by 15 yuan/ton on average; the mainstream transaction price of 50% ion - exchange membrane caustic soda remained stable [6]. 3.2.2 Related News On July 24, 2025, the price of liquid chlorine from Shandong Xinf Fa increased by 100 yuan, with an ex - factory price of - 400 yuan [7]. 3.2.3 Logic Analysis - PVC: The supply - demand situation has weakened, with inventory accumulation and low downstream start - up rates. New production capacity is expected to be put into operation, and domestic demand is affected by real estate. The futures price has risen due to the elimination of backward production capacity. Before policy implementation, it is expected to be oscillatingly strong, and there is a risk of price decline if policy support is weak or sentiment cools down [8]. - Caustic soda: The futures price has strengthened due to the elimination of backward production capacity. The alumina industry is stable, but the caustic soda inventory has increased, non - aluminum demand is weak, and new production capacity is expected to be put into operation. There is a need to focus on policy implementation [9]. 3.2.4 Trading Strategies - Unilateral trading: For both caustic soda and PVC, before policy implementation, they are expected to be oscillatingly strong. There is a risk of price decline if policy support is weak or sentiment cools down [10]. - Arbitrage: Temporarily on the sidelines [11]. - Options: Temporarily on the sidelines [11]. 3.3 Third Part: Related Attachments The report provides multiple charts showing the price trends, basis trends, spreads, positions, warehouse receipts, spot prices, raw material prices, and profit trends of PVC and caustic soda futures contracts, with data sources including Galaxy Futures, WIND, Zhuochuang, and Longzhong [14][16][19][20][24][25][27][29][30][31][33][34][36][40][41][42][43].

Group 1: Market News and Key Data PVC - Futures price and basis: The closing price of the main PVC contract was 5,260 yuan/ton (+142), the East China basis was -200 yuan/ton (-82), and the South China basis was -160 yuan/ton (-42) [1] - Spot price: The East China calcium carbide method was quoted at 5,060 yuan/ton (+60), and the South China calcium carbide method was quoted at 5,100 yuan/ton (+100) [1] - Upstream production profit: The semi - coke price was 535 yuan/ton (+0), the calcium carbide price was 2,830 yuan/ton (+0), the calcium carbide profit was 112 yuan/ton (+0), the gross profit of PVC calcium carbide method production was -315 yuan/ton (+130), the gross profit of PVC ethylene method production was -595 yuan/ton (+26), and the PVC export profit was -13.8 US dollars/ton (-9.0) [1] - PVC inventory and operation: The in - factory PVC inventory was 36.8 tons (-1.4), the social PVC inventory was 41.1 tons (+1.8), the operating rate of the PVC calcium carbide method was 77.52% (+0.59%), the operating rate of the PVC ethylene method was 68.31% (-1.92%), and the overall PVC operating rate was 74.97% (-0.10%) [1] - Downstream order situation: The pre - sales volume of production enterprises was 69.6 tons (+0.6) [1] Caustic Soda - Futures price and basis: The closing price of the SH main contract was 2,658 yuan/ton (+89), and the basis of 32% liquid caustic soda in Shandong was -64 yuan/ton (-89) [1] - Spot price: The price of 32% liquid caustic soda in Shandong was 830 yuan/ton (+0), and the price of 50% liquid caustic soda in Shandong was 1,340 yuan/ton (-30) [2] - Upstream production profit: The single - variety profit of caustic soda in Shandong was 1,603 yuan/ton (+0), the comprehensive profit of chlor - alkali in Shandong (0.8 tons of liquid chlorine) was 459.5 yuan/ton (-120.0), the comprehensive profit of chlor - alkali in Shandong (1 ton of PVC) was 557.53 yuan/ton (+50.00), and the comprehensive profit of chlor - alkali in the Northwest (1 ton of PVC) was 1,448.33 yuan/ton (+30.00) [2] - Caustic soda inventory and operation: The inventory of liquid caustic soda factories was 38.39 tons (+0.96), the inventory of flake caustic soda factories was 2.40 tons (+0.04), and the operating rate of caustic soda was 82.60% (+2.20%) [2] - Downstream operation of caustic soda: The operating rate of alumina was 83.61% (+0.33%), the operating rate of printing and dyeing in East China was 58.89% (+0.00%), and the operating rate of viscose staple fiber was 84.55% (+6.75%) [2] Group 2: Market Analysis PVC - Policy impact: The upcoming release of the steady - growth work plan for ten key industries such as steel, non - ferrous metals, petrochemicals, and building materials has boosted the PVC market sentiment. The proportion of PVC production devices with a production time of more than 20 years is about 12%, which has led to market expectations of eliminating old - fashioned production capacity [3] - Fundamental analysis: The upstream operation has slightly declined but remains at a high level. There are expectations of new production capacity coming on stream from July to August, so the supply - side pressure is high. The domestic demand of downstream industries remains weak, the operating rate of downstream products has continued to decline month - on - month and is lower than the same period last year; the short - term export situation is neutral. The social inventory continues to accumulate, and the absolute inventory value is high. The supply - demand fundamentals of PVC are still weak, and the inventory is expected to continue to accumulate [3] Caustic Soda - Policy impact: The evaluation of old - fashioned devices in the petrochemical and chemical industries has led to expectations that caustic soda devices that have reached the designed service life or have been in operation for more than 20 years may gradually withdraw from the market, which has significantly boosted market sentiment. Coupled with the further weakening of the liquid chlorine price, the caustic soda futures price has risen significantly [3] - Fundamental analysis: On the supply side, there are few new overhauls upstream, and some chlor - alkali devices that previously reduced production due to poor liquid chlorine sales have gradually increased their loads. The overall operating rate has increased month - on - month, and there are still expectations of new production coming on stream from July to August. On the demand side, the profit of the main downstream alumina industry has expanded, the operation has continued to pick up, and the amount of liquid caustic soda supplied to the main downstream has increased. There is still short - term rigid demand support; non - aluminum demand continues to be weak in the off - season. The factory inventory of caustic soda has increased month - on - month, and the inventory is higher than the same period. With the increase in the load of chlor - alkali production reduction enterprises, the inventory pressure is expected to increase [3] Group 3: Strategies PVC - Single - side strategy: Cautiously go long for hedging; due to the boost of macro - sentiment, the futures price is expected to continue to rise in the short term [4] - Inter - delivery strategy: Do reverse spreads when the V09 - 01 spread is high [4] Caustic Soda - Single - side strategy: Cautiously go long for hedging; with the further weakening of liquid chlorine, the cost support for caustic soda has strengthened. In the short term, the futures price is driven by the expectation of eliminating old - fashioned production capacity, and the macro - sentiment is boosted. The caustic soda futures price is expected to continue to be strong [5]

1. Investment Ratings No investment ratings for the industries are provided in the reports. 2. Core Views PVC and Caustic Soda - The caustic soda futures market is boosted by policies, with expectations of industry capacity - reduction. Spot transactions are average, and prices in Shandong and Guangdong have decreased. Low - grade caustic soda has low inventory in most enterprises due to alumina demand, but non - aluminum downstream resists high prices. Short - term macro disturbances increase trading risks, and it is recommended to take profit on previous long positions and wait and see [2][4]. - The PVC futures market is also boosted by policies, with expectations of industry capacity - reduction. The spot market has light transactions and little price fluctuation. It is in a slack season with increasing supply and decreasing demand, and the fundamentals have not improved significantly. Short - term trading is more influenced by macro - sentiment, and it is recommended to wait and see [4]. Methanol - In the inland market, methanol prices fluctuate slightly. Supply may increase as the maintenance losses in July are high but there are expectations of resumption. Demand is restricted by the traditional off - season, and new capacity launch affects the market. At the port, the basis strengthens, Iranian device production returns, and imports are expected to be 1.25 million tons in July and slightly decline in August. There may be inventory accumulation from July to August due to the combination of import recovery and olefin maintenance [7]. Polyester Industry Chain - PX: Although some PX devices have load fluctuations, and terminal demand feedback is negative, PX supply is still expected to be tight, and PXN has some support. The short - term PX09 is expected to operate in the range of 6,600 - 6,900 yuan/ton, and attention should be paid to the upper - limit pressure [10]. - PTA: The current PTA load is around 80% with new device launch expectations, and terminal demand is weak. Considering the tight PX supply and the strong domestic commodity market sentiment, the TA09 - TA01 spread can be rolled in a reverse way, and the PTA processing fee around 250 yuan/ton can be used for short - selling attempts [10]. - Ethylene Glycol: Multiple coal - based ethylene glycol devices stopped unexpectedly in mid - July, leading to lower - than - expected supply increase and reduced import expectations. Short - term port inventory is expected to remain low, and the short - term EG2509 - P - 4300 put option seller can hold the position [10]. - Short - fiber: Although short - fiber factories plan to cut production in July, the overall supply and demand are weak in the short term, and the absolute price fluctuates with raw materials [10]. - Bottle - chip: July is the peak season for soft - drink consumption, and there are expectations of improved demand. However, considering the high historical supply level, attention should be paid to whether the device production cuts increase and the downstream follow - up situation [10]. Crude Oil - Overnight oil prices fluctuated weakly, mainly due to macro - pressure. The approaching US trade negotiation deadline on August 1st has not alleviated the macro - tension, and the threat of a 30% tariff may suppress oil demand. Although there are expectations of a decline in US crude oil inventory, trade tariff uncertainties are the core contradiction. It is recommended to adopt a short - term band - trading strategy, with support levels at [63, 64] for WTI, [66, 67] for Brent, and [498, 505] for SC. Options can be used to capture volatility opportunities [13][14]. Urea - The core driver of the urea futures market comes from macro - policies. Policies to optimize the industrial structure and eliminate backward production capacity are considered beneficial to the urea industry. Export data shows weakness, and the market focuses on new policy support. The futures price stimulates the spot trading atmosphere, and the basis is expected to be repaired. In the short term, there is no significant reduction in demand and capacity. In the long term, the transformation of coal - based urea capacity structure may be promoted. Attention should be paid to export quota implementation, trading volume recovery, and market expectations [15]. Polyolefins (LLDPE and PP) - In terms of valuation, the marginal profit is gradually recovering, and both PE and PP have supply - demand contraction and inventory accumulation, with weak demand. PP maintenance has reached its peak, PE maintenance first increases and then decreases, and there are few import offers. Demand is expected to pick up seasonally at the end of July. Strategically, the market sentiment is warm, PP is expected to fluctuate weakly, and it is recommended to wait and see for short positions, while PE can be bought in the range [20]. Pure Benzene and Styrene - Pure benzene: The supply - demand situation is expected to improve in July. Although there is news of production cuts from some devices, the impact on loss volume is limited. Downstream price transmission is poor except for styrene, and import expectations are high with high port inventory. Short - term pure benzene may be boosted by the strong domestic commodity market, but the rebound space is limited. The main contract BZ2603 follows the fluctuations of oil prices and styrene [25]. - Styrene: The styrene industry has high - level operation with maintained profits. The basis of near - month contracts weakens, and the profits of some downstream industries are slightly repaired. The supply - demand situation is marginally improved but still weak in expectation, and port inventory continues to increase. Short - term styrene is boosted by the market, but the increase is limited due to weak supply - demand expectations and high valuation. The EB09 is expected to operate in the range of 7,100 - 7,500 yuan/ton, and attention should be paid to the pressure around 7,500 yuan/ton and short - selling opportunities. The EB - BZ spread can be shorted at high levels [25]. 3. Summaries by Catalog PVC and Caustic Soda - **Price Changes**: Shandong 50% caustic soda price decreased by 2.2% from July 21st to July 22nd; East China calcium - carbide - based PVC price increased by 0.8%. Some futures contracts such as SH2509 and V2509 also had significant price increases [2]. - **Supply**: The caustic soda industry's operating rate increased by 1.3% from July 11th to July 18th, and the PVC total operating rate decreased by 0.1% [2]. - **Demand**: The alumina industry's operating rate increased by 1.0%, and the viscose staple fiber industry's operating rate increased by 8.7% from July 11th to July 18th. The PVC downstream product operating rate showed mixed trends [3][4]. - **Inventory**: The liquid caustic soda inventory in East China factories and Shandong increased, while the PVC upstream factory inventory decreased, and the total social inventory increased [4]. Methanol - **Price Changes**: MA2601 and MA2509 prices increased by 2.18% and 1.91% respectively from July 21st to July 22nd. The basis and regional spreads also changed [7]. - **Inventory**: Methanol enterprise inventory decreased by 1.28%, and port inventory increased by 9.92% [7]. - **Operating Rates**: The upstream domestic enterprise operating rate decreased by 1.94%, and some downstream operating rates such as MTBE increased, while others like formaldehyde decreased [7]. Polyester Industry Chain - **Upstream Prices**: Brent and WTI crude oil prices decreased, and prices of other upstream products such as CFR Japan naphtha and CFR China MX also had different degrees of decline [10]. - **PX - Related**: CFR China PX price increased by 0.1%, and PX basis, spreads, and processing fees changed [10]. - **PTA - Related**: PTA spot price decreased by 0.2%, and futures prices increased slightly. PTA processing fees decreased [10]. - **MEG - Related**: MEG spot price increased by 0.4%, and futures prices also increased. MEG basis and spreads changed [10]. Crude Oil - **Price Changes**: Brent oil price decreased by 0.90%, and WTI oil price increased by 0.52% on July 23rd compared to July 22nd. Spreads such as Brent M1 - M3 and WTI M1 - M3 also changed [13]. - **Refined Oil**: NYM RBOB increased by 0.28%, and ICE Gasoil decreased by 2.12%. Refined oil spreads also had different changes [13]. Urea - **Price Changes**: The synthetic ammonia price in Shandong increased by 1.54%, and some urea spot prices in different regions increased slightly [17]. - **Supply and Demand**: Domestic urea daily and weekly production decreased slightly, and factory inventory decreased, while port inventory increased [17]. - **Market Sentiment**: The futures market is affected by policies, and the spot market trading atmosphere is stimulated [17]. Polyolefins (LLDPE and PP) - **Price Changes**: L2601, L2509, PP2601, and PP2509 prices increased, and spot prices of华东PP拉丝 and华北LLDPE膜料 also increased [20]. - **Operating Rates**: PE and PP device operating rates increased slightly, and some downstream operating rates changed [20]. - **Inventory**: PE and PP enterprise inventories increased [20]. Pure Benzene and Styrene - **Upstream Prices**: Brent and WTI crude oil prices decreased, and CFR Japan naphtha price decreased by 1.2% [24]. - **Pure Benzene**: The CFR China pure benzene price increased by 0.5%, and the pure benzene basis and import profit changed [24]. - **Styrene**: The styrene East China spot price decreased by 0.8%, and styrene basis, spreads, and cash - flow changed [24]. - **Inventory and Operating Rates**: Pure benzene and styrene port inventories increased, and the operating rates of related industries changed [25].

Core Insights - The chlor-alkali industry is expected to face new development opportunities driven by the demand from the new energy sector, persistent traditional demand, and favorable policies despite a complex market environment and industry transformation trends [1][5] Group 1: Market Demand and Supply - In the first half of the year, China's caustic soda consumption was 20.843 million tons, a decrease of 100,000 tons compared to 2024. The alumina industry, a major downstream consumer of caustic soda, has seen a reduction in operating rates due to intense market competition, leading to weakened demand expectations for caustic soda [1] - The demand for caustic soda from other downstream sectors, including new energy, viscose staple fiber, and dyeing, remained stable without significant changes [1] - By 2025, the effective production capacity of caustic soda is expected to reach 52.23 million tons, with PVC production capacity projected to increase by 1.8 million tons, reaching a total of 30.32 million tons by year-end [2] Group 2: Regional Production and Competition - The expansion of caustic soda production capacity is primarily concentrated in East China, North China, Central China, and Northwest China, with several companies planning new capacity [2] - The domestic chlor-alkali industry exhibits a clustering characteristic, with regions like Shandong and Inner Mongolia forming large-scale industrial clusters due to resource and energy advantages. Large enterprises hold competitive advantages in terms of capital, technology, and scale, while smaller companies face challenges in cost control and technological innovation [2] Group 3: New Energy Sector Impact - The rapid development of the new energy industry is creating new market opportunities for the chlor-alkali sector. The demand for bifacial solar panels is driving consumption in the glass industry, which in turn increases the demand for caustic soda and chlorine [3] - It is anticipated that by 2028, bifacial solar panel components will account for 61% of global solar panel installations, further boosting the demand for chlor-alkali products [3] Group 4: Traditional Demand Stability - Despite current weakness in the construction industry, PVC remains a preferred material for many infrastructure and end-use applications, providing a stable demand foundation [4] - The alumina industry accounted for approximately 31% of caustic soda demand in 2023, with significant new capacity expected to be commissioned by 2025, which will influence the supply-demand dynamics of caustic soda [4] Group 5: Policy Support - Recent policies from the Central Urban Work Conference emphasize urban quality improvement and renovation projects, which are expected to stimulate stable demand growth for upstream products like alumina and PVC [6] - The chlor-alkali industry is at a critical juncture of transformation and development, facing challenges from market competition and raw material price fluctuations while also benefiting from new energy sector growth and technological innovation [6]

Report Industry Investment Ratings No relevant information provided. Core Views of the Report PVC and Caustic Soda - The futures market was boosted by relevant policies, and there are expectations for industry capacity reduction. The caustic soda spot market had average transactions, with prices in Shandong and Guangdong decreasing. Low - concentration caustic soda has low inventory due to alumina demand, but non - aluminum downstream is resistant to high prices. The PVC spot market had light transactions, and the current supply - demand pattern is in the off - season of increasing supply and decreasing demand. It is recommended to take profit on previous long positions in caustic soda and temporarily observe for PVC [6]. Methanol - Inland prices fluctuated slightly. Supply had high maintenance losses in July but there are expectations of resumption. Demand is restricted by the traditional off - season. At the port, the basis strengthened, overseas Iranian device production returned, and there will be inventory accumulation from July to August. It is recommended to observe the market [8]. Polyester Industry Chain - PX supply is less affected, but demand support is weak. PTA supply - demand is expected to be weak, while ethylene glycol supply - demand is expected to improve in the short term. Short - fiber supply and demand are both weak, and bottle - chip supply - demand has improvement expectations but is still affected by high supply and inventory. Different strategies are recommended for each product [11]. Crude Oil - Overnight oil prices fluctuated weakly due to macro - pressure. The approaching US trade negotiation deadline and the lack of progress in negotiations have suppressed demand expectations. Although there are expectations of a decline in US crude oil inventory, trade tariff uncertainty is the core contradiction. It is recommended to adopt short - term band strategies [16]. Urea - The core driver of the urea futures market comes from macro - policies. Although export data shows weakness, policy news boosts market sentiment. The market is expected to fluctuate strongly in the short term [24][25]. Polyolefins - The marginal profit of PP and PE is gradually recovering, and supply and demand are both contracting, with inventory accumulation and weak demand. At the end of July, demand is expected to pick up seasonally. It is recommended to be short - biased on PP and buy within the range for PE [29]. Pure Benzene and Styrene - The supply - demand of pure benzene is expected to improve slightly, but its own driving force is limited due to high import expectations and port inventory. Short - term pure benzene may be boosted but with limited rebound space. The supply - demand of styrene is marginally repaired but still weak, and its increase is limited. Different strategies are recommended for each [31]. Summary by Relevant Catalogs PVC and Caustic Soda - **Prices**: On July 22, compared with July 21, the price of Shandong 50% liquid caustic soda decreased by 2.2%, and the price of East China calcium - carbide - based PVC increased by 0.8%. Futures prices generally rose, and basis and spreads changed significantly [2]. - **Supply**: From July 11 to July 18, the caustic soda industry's operating rate increased by 1.3%, and the PVC total operating rate decreased by 0.1%. The profit of externally - purchased calcium - carbide - based PVC decreased by 2.0% [4]. - **Demand**: From July 11 to July 18, the alumina industry's operating rate increased by 1.0%, and the viscose staple fiber industry's operating rate increased by 8.7%. The operating rate of PVC downstream products such as profiles decreased [5][6]. - **Inventory**: From July 10 to July 17, the inventory of liquid caustic soda in East China factories and Shandong increased, while the upstream factory inventory of PVC decreased, and the total social inventory increased [6]. Methanol - **Prices and Spreads**: On July 22, compared with July 21, the closing prices of MA2601 and MA2509 increased, and the basis and spreads changed. Regional spot prices also had different changes [8]. - **Inventory**: The enterprise inventory of methanol decreased by 1.28%, and the port and social inventories increased [8]. - **Operating Rates**: The upstream domestic enterprise operating rate decreased by 1.94%, and some downstream operating rates changed, such as the MTBE operating rate increasing by 3.46% [8]. Polyester Industry Chain - **Prices**: On July 22, compared with July 21, the prices of most polyester products and upstream raw materials such as crude oil and naphtha changed slightly. PX, PTA, and other prices and spreads also had corresponding adjustments [11]. - **Operating Rates**: The operating rates of Asian and Chinese PX, PTA, and MEG all had different degrees of change, and the comprehensive operating rate of polyester decreased by 0.5% [11]. - **Inventory**: The MEG port inventory decreased by 3.6% from July 14 to July 21 [11]. Crude Oil - **Prices and Spreads**: On July 23, compared with July 22, Brent crude oil decreased by 0.90%, WTI increased by 0.52%. Spreads such as Brent M1 - M3 and WTI M1 - M3 also changed [16]. - **Product Prices and Spreads**: The prices of refined oil products such as NYM RBOB and ICE Gasoil had different changes, and the spreads also changed [16]. Urea - **Futures and Spot Prices**: On July 22, compared with July 21, the futures prices of urea contracts generally increased, and spot prices in different regions also had small increases [19][23]. - **Supply and Demand**: From July 17 to July 18, the domestic urea daily output decreased by 0.25%, and the factory inventory decreased by 7.46% from July 11 to July 18 [24]. Polyolefins - **Prices and Spreads**: On July 22, compared with July 21, the futures prices of L2601 and PP2601 increased, and spot prices of PP and LLDPE also increased. Spreads and basis changed significantly [29]. - **Operating Rates and Inventory**: The operating rates of PE and PP devices increased slightly, and the inventory of PE and PP enterprises and traders increased [29]. Pure Benzene and Styrene - **Prices and Spreads**: On July 22, compared with July 21, the prices of upstream raw materials such as crude oil and naphtha decreased, and the prices of pure benzene and styrene and their spreads changed [31]. - **Inventory and Operating Rates**: The port inventories of pure benzene and styrene increased, and the operating rates of the pure benzene and styrene industries and their downstream industries also had different degrees of change [31].

1. Report Industry Investment Ratings - Not provided in the given content 2. Core Views Polyolefin Industry - Valuation shows marginal profit gradually recovering, with synchronized contraction in PP and PE supply - demand, inventory accumulation, and a weak demand trend. PP maintenance has peaked, while PE maintenance first rises then falls. There are few import offers, and some Middle - East devices are shut down due to power issues. There will be a seasonal recovery in demand at the end of July. There is a risk of capacity withdrawal for devices over 20 years old. Strategy: unilateral short - term opportunity for PP with a bearish bias, and range - bound buying for PE [2] Methanol Industry - Inland prices fluctuate slightly. Supply has high maintenance losses in July but with expected复产. Demand is restricted by the traditional off - season of downstream industries, and new capacity launch affects the market. At the port, the basis strengthens. Overseas Iranian device production is back, with expected imports of 125 million tons in July and a slight decline in August. After MTO profit repair, maintenance is uncertain. There will be inventory accumulation from July to August, and prices are weak [5] Pure Benzene - Styrene Industry - The supply - demand outlook for pure benzene improves in July. Although there are production news releases, the impact on loss volume is limited. Downstream price transmission is poor except for styrene. With high import expectations and high port inventory, its own driving force is limited. However, it may be boosted in the short - term, but the rebound space is limited. For styrene, the industry profit is maintained, and the operating rate is high. The supply - demand margin is repaired, but the supply - demand outlook is weak, and port inventory increases. It is boosted in the short - term but has limited upside [7] Polyester Industry Chain - In July, the PX supply - demand is good overall. Although some factory loads fluctuate, the overall supply impact is limited. Downstream PTA has increased maintenance expectations after significant processing fee compression, and terminal demand feedback is negative. PX demand support is weak. Considering new PTA capacity, the PX supply - demand outlook is tight, and PXN has some support. It may be boosted in the short - term but is restricted by demand and oil price expectations. For PTA, the load is around 80%, and with new device expectations and weak terminal demand, the supply - demand outlook is weak. It may be supported in the short - term by market sentiment. For other products like MEG, short - fiber, and bottle - chip, their supply - demand and price trends are analyzed respectively [11] Crude Oil Industry - Overnight oil prices fluctuated weakly. The upper pressure comes from US tariff threats and EU sanctions on Russia, while the lower support is from the diesel fundamentals. Diesel cracking profit in Europe reaches a high level since 2024, indicating a tight medium - heavy crude oil structure. Refinery high - operating rates lead to counter - seasonal diesel inventory drawdown. Oil prices show a wide - range oscillation pattern, and the short - term direction depends on sanctions' impact on Russian supply and tariff risks [32] Chlor - Alkali Industry - For caustic soda, the futures price is boosted by policies, and there is an expectation of industry capacity reduction. The spot trading is average, and the price in Guangdong drops. Low - grade caustic soda has low inventory due to alumina demand, but non - aluminum downstream resists high prices. The supply - demand contradiction is limited, and there is an upward price expectation in the peak season. For PVC, the futures price is also boosted by policies, but the spot market has little change. The supply - demand is in an off - season with increasing supply and decreasing demand, and the inventory slightly accumulates. Short - term trading is mainly driven by macro - sentiment [36][37] Urea Industry - The core driver of the urea futures is macro - policy. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology's policies are interpreted as beneficial for the urea industry, which may reduce large - particle supply. Although export data shows weakness, policy news boosts market sentiment. The futures price rise stimulates spot trading, and the basis has a repair expectation. In the short - term, the capacity reduction probability is low, but in the long - term, there may be a transformation in urea production capacity structure. The market should focus on export quota execution and trading expectations [41][42] 3. Summary by Related Catalogs Polyolefin Industry - **Prices**: Futures and spot prices of L and PP increased on July 21 compared to July 18, with varying increase rates. The basis and price differences between different contracts also changed [2] - **Supply and Demand**: PE and PP device operating rates decreased slightly, and downstream operating rates also showed a downward trend. Inventories of PE and PP increased [2] Methanol Industry - **Prices**: Futures and spot prices of methanol changed slightly. The basis strengthened at the port, and regional price differences also had some changes [5] - **Supply and Demand**: Supply in July had high maintenance losses but with expected复产. Demand was restricted by the off - season. At the port, imports were expected to increase in July and decrease slightly in August, and there would be inventory accumulation from July to August [5] Pure Benzene - Styrene Industry - **Prices**: Prices of pure benzene, styrene, and related products increased on July 21 compared to July 18, and the cash - flow and price differences also changed [7] - **Supply and Demand**: The supply - demand outlook for pure benzene improved in July, but downstream price transmission was poor. For styrene, the industry profit was maintained, and the operating rate was high, but the supply - demand outlook was weak [7] Polyester Industry Chain - **Prices**: Prices of upstream raw materials such as oil, PX, and downstream polyester products changed slightly on July 21 compared to July 18. Processing fees and price differences also had corresponding changes [11] - **Supply and Demand**: PX supply - demand was good overall, but downstream PTA had increased maintenance expectations. For other products like MEG, short - fiber, and bottle - chip, their supply - demand situations were analyzed respectively [11] Crude Oil Industry - **Prices**: Brent, WTI, and SC oil prices decreased slightly on July 22 compared to July 21. Price differences between different contracts and between different oil types also changed [32] - **Supply and Demand**: The upper pressure on oil prices came from macro - factors, while the lower support was from diesel fundamentals. Diesel inventory showed counter - seasonal drawdown [32] Chlor - Alkali Industry - **Prices**: Prices of caustic soda and PVC futures and spot products changed on July 21 compared to July 18, and the basis and price differences also had corresponding changes [36] - **Supply and Demand**: For caustic soda, the supply - demand contradiction was limited, and for PVC, it was in an off - season with increasing supply and decreasing demand [36][37] Urea Industry - **Prices**: Spot prices of urea in different regions increased slightly on July 21 compared to July 18. The basis and price differences also changed [40] - **Supply and Demand**: Domestic urea daily and weekly production decreased slightly, and the plant - level inventory decreased, while the port inventory increased [41]