Core Insights - Lanxess's subsidiary Rhein Chemie has completed a significant expansion project at its Qingdao production base, marking the largest investment in its specialty rubber products business globally in the past five years, aimed at enhancing local supply capabilities in the Chinese rubber chemicals market [1][2] Group 1: Localized Innovation - The Qingdao base, established in 1995, has achieved recognition for its innovation, safety, and sustainable development, currently producing over 100 types of chemical products with a total capacity of 25,000 tons, primarily targeting the Asia-Pacific market [2] - The expansion was driven by strong downstream market demand, increasing the capacity of processing additives V4 and pre-dispersed masterbatch V8 by 50%, raising total capacity from 25,000 tons to 30,000 tons annually [2] Group 2: Commitment to Sustainable Development - The company acknowledges the challenges of achieving green production, which often incurs higher costs, and aims to lead in sustainable development by collaborating with partners to ensure the recycling of waste rubber [3] - Two innovative products have been launched: one with the Scopeblue sustainable label, containing at least 50% renewable or recycled materials, and a carbon calculator to help customers understand the carbon footprint of their products [3] - The Qingdao base has made strides in sustainability by using bio-based fatty acids and recyclable materials, and shifting from barrel packaging to tankers to reduce waste [3] Group 3: Business Strategy Adjustments - In response to the global economic downturn, the company is shifting its focus from product sales to providing greater added value through innovation, aiming for a transition from volume to value [4] - The company is actively adjusting its business strategy to reduce reliance on raw materials by transitioning from a rubber company to a specialty chemicals company less affected by raw material fluctuations [4] - Cost-saving measures include a €100 million efficiency improvement program and the establishment of more flexible, localized facilities to optimize processes and enhance cost efficiency [4]

Group 1: Immigration and Travel Statistics - In the first half of the year, over 950,000 people and more than 7,000 flights were processed at the Shaanxi Entry-Exit Border Inspection Station, representing a year-on-year increase of 65% and 68% respectively [1] - The number of travelers from Central Asian countries reached over 78,000, with a 40% increase, and flights increased by 19% [1] - Over 120,000 foreign nationals entered through Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, marking a 131% year-on-year growth, with 92,000 entering under various visa exemption policies, a 349% increase [1] Group 2: Airport Developments - The Yulin Yuyang Airport has been included in the national 2025 port opening review plan, making it the only inland airport in this year's review [2] - The renovation of the T1 terminal at Yulin Yuyang Airport is nearing completion, with procurement for inspection facilities underway [2] Group 3: RCEP Policy Benefits - As of May, Yulin's foreign trade enterprises received 1,429 RCEP certificates, amounting to 423 million yuan, with an estimated tax reduction of 5.6 million yuan [4] - A specific case highlighted a 45.2% reduction in tariffs for rubber additives exported to Japan, enhancing market competitiveness [5] - Yulin Customs is implementing measures to facilitate the RCEP policy benefits, including green channels for key enterprises and streamlined procedures for certificate issuance [5]