Core Viewpoint - The article discusses whether hyaluronic acid (HA) has become "outdated" in the industry and capital markets, emphasizing its ongoing technological breakthroughs and potential for further industrial application [1][4]. Group 1: Industry Overview - China has become the world's largest producer of hyaluronic acid, accounting for over 84% of global sales in 2023, with major companies like Huaxi Biological and Furuida leading the market [4][12]. - The application of hyaluronic acid spans various fields, including medical aesthetics, pharmaceuticals, skincare, and food, indicating a broad market potential [9][10]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - Technological breakthroughs have significantly reduced production costs and expanded application scenarios for hyaluronic acid, with production efficiency increasing from 3g/L to 12-14g/L through fermentation technology [13][19]. - The introduction of cross-linking technology has transformed hyaluronic acid from a liquid to a gel state, enhancing its utility in minimally invasive aesthetic procedures [8][18]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The market for hyaluronic acid is experiencing increased competition, leading to price wars and a decline in product differentiation, with injection products priced between 600-800 RMB, and some below 100 RMB [14]. - Major companies like Huaxi Biological and Aimeike are facing challenges in revenue growth due to price reductions and market saturation, despite some product lines performing well [14][16]. Group 4: Future Directions - The future of hyaluronic acid lies in expanding its applications in medical devices, cosmetics, and food products, with a focus on developing new formulations and improving compliance with regulatory standards [17][18]. - Companies are exploring regenerative capabilities of hyaluronic acid, aiming to enhance its effectiveness and comfort in applications, indicating a shift from mere filling to regenerative functions [18][19].

Core Viewpoint - Hyaluronic acid is not just a moisturizing agent but has vast applications in pharmaceuticals, medical aesthetics, skincare, and health foods, indicating a significant growth potential in various sectors [1][2][4]. Industry Overview - The hyaluronic acid market is primarily dominated by three major companies: Huaxi Biological, Aimeike, and Haohai Biological, collectively referred to as the "big three" in the industry, with market capitalizations exceeding 100 billion yuan for Huaxi Biological and Aimeike at one point [2][3]. - In 2023, China accounted for 84% of the global hyaluronic acid raw material sales, establishing itself as the largest producer, with Shandong province being the key production hub [7][8]. Application Scenarios - Hyaluronic acid is widely used in the medical aesthetics sector, particularly in non-surgical procedures like water light needles and injection fillers, due to its excellent moisture retention and filling properties [3][4]. - The applications of hyaluronic acid have expanded from ophthalmology to include various medical fields, such as joint lubrication, vascular permeability regulation, and wound healing [5][14]. Technological Advancements - Huaxi Biological has significantly improved the production efficiency of hyaluronic acid through microbial fermentation technology, increasing the yield from 3g/L to 12-14g/L and reducing production time from 72 hours to 18 hours [8][13]. - The introduction of cross-linking technology has transformed hyaluronic acid from a liquid to a gel state, extending its metabolic duration in the body and facilitating its use in aesthetic procedures [5][8]. Market Challenges - The industry faces challenges such as overcapacity and price wars due to an influx of competitors, leading to a significant drop in raw material prices from thousands to hundreds of yuan [8][9]. - Major companies have reported varying degrees of performance challenges since 2022, with Huaxi Biological's functional skincare and food businesses experiencing declines [9]. Future Directions - The future of hyaluronic acid lies in expanding its applications in medical devices and developing new products that combine hyaluronic acid with other ingredients for enhanced therapeutic effects [11][12]. - Companies are exploring regenerative capabilities of hyaluronic acid, focusing on its dual functions of filling and regeneration, which could lead to innovative product offerings [12][14].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the internal turmoil and strategic challenges faced by Huaxi Biological, particularly in light of its declining performance and the need for significant internal reforms to address corruption and strategic misalignment [3][4][5]. Group 1: Internal Challenges and Strategic Issues - Huaxi Biological's CEO Zhao Yan issued an ultimatum for employees involved in corruption to resign by March 31, indicating a critical need for internal restructuring [3]. - The company is experiencing a significant decline in revenue and profits, with a reported drop of over 70% in profits for 2024, highlighting the urgency of the situation [3][4]. - The internal issues are compounded by strategic missteps, particularly the failure to adapt to market changes and the overproduction of hyaluronic acid, leading to an oversupply situation [9][15]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape - The hyaluronic acid market has shifted from a scarcity to an oversupply, with average prices dropping from 210 RMB per gram in 2017 to 124 RMB in 2021, a decline of 41% [9]. - New competitors in the collagen market have emerged, capturing consumer interest and market share, which has further pressured Huaxi Biological's traditional hyaluronic acid business [11][12]. - The company has been slow to diversify into collagen products, missing out on a significant market opportunity that could have alleviated current pressures [12][15]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Cost Management - Huaxi Biological's sales and management expenses have surged from 38.23% in 2018 to 61.72% in 2023, with sales expenses alone increasing from 284 million RMB to 2.842 billion RMB during the same period [27]. - Despite maintaining a high gross margin of around 73%, the net profit margin has plummeted from 33.56% in 2018 to approximately 9.27% in 2024, indicating severe profitability issues [27][28]. - The company's strategy to cut costs and improve profitability through internal reforms may provide short-term relief, but long-term success will depend on genuine operational improvements [29][30].