Industry Overview - Chitosan, a natural polymer with biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antibacterial properties, is increasingly in demand across various sectors including medicine, food, textiles, and environmental protection [1][2] - The market size of the chitosan industry in China is projected to reach approximately 9.3 billion yuan in 2024, representing a year-on-year growth of 10.71% [1][6] - The medical sector is a significant driver of this growth, with applications in wound dressings and drug carriers becoming more widespread [1][6] Industry Chain - The upstream of the chitosan industry primarily includes raw materials such as shrimp, crab, and other crustacean shells, which contain 20%-30% chitosan [5] - The midstream involves the production and manufacturing of chitosan, while the downstream applications span medical health, pesticides, cosmetics, and fiber products [5] - The agricultural sector utilizes chitosan for insecticides and antiviral agents, while in cosmetics, it serves as a beauty agent and moisturizer [5] Market Dynamics - The production of crustaceans in China is expected to reach 7.85 million tons in 2024, a year-on-year increase of 6.29%, providing a rich source of raw materials for chitosan extraction [6] - The increasing awareness of environmental issues is driving the application of chitosan in water treatment and heavy metal adsorption, further expanding market opportunities [1][6] Key Companies - Zhejiang Jinkai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. focuses on marine biological research and offers a range of products including chitosan and its derivatives, exporting to over 30 countries [7] - Weifang Kehai Chitosan Co., Ltd. specializes in chitosan production, ensuring high product quality through the use of premium raw materials [9] Development Trends - The chitosan industry is expected to emphasize technological innovation and product diversification, enhancing extraction efficiency and product purity through advanced techniques [10][11] - There is a growing trend towards the development of chitosan derivatives with specialized functions to meet diverse market needs [10] - The industry is moving towards integrated supply chain collaboration, ensuring stable raw material supply and improved production efficiency [11]

Core Insights - The small lobster industry in Qianjiang, Hubei, is experiencing stable growth despite price fluctuations in other regions, attributed to effective local policies and innovative farming practices [3][4][5] Group 1: Market Performance - In the first half of 2023, the average price of small lobsters in Qianjiang increased by 16.7% for small lobsters (2-4 taels) and 8.2% for medium lobsters (4-6 taels) compared to the previous year [1] - The total output of small lobsters in Qianjiang reached 25,600 tons in the first quarter of 2023, marking a year-on-year growth of approximately 9%, with a total output value of 2.732 billion yuan, up 41.21% [4] Group 2: Industry Development - The local government has implemented the "Shrimp Ten Articles" policy to support the high-quality development of the small lobster industry, promoting sustainable practices [3] - Qianjiang has established 48 small lobster processing enterprises with an annual processing capacity of 800,000 tons, ensuring stable market prices for farmers [5] Group 3: Innovative Practices - The introduction of a winter fishing ceremony in December 2024 aims to achieve staggered market supply, enhancing farmers' risk resistance and overall income [3][4] - The integration of technology in farming practices has helped alleviate seasonal production challenges, contributing to the goal of having lobsters available year-round [3][4] Group 4: Future Outlook - The sales volume of fresh small lobsters in Qianjiang is expected to exceed 200,000 tons in 2024, with a transaction value surpassing 10 billion yuan [7] - The industry is projected to continue its growth trajectory, with the first half of 2025 already seeing a transaction volume of 177,000 tons and a value of 7.527 billion yuan [7]