Core Viewpoint - The investment in the lost foam casting industry in China is rapidly growing, driven by the increasing demand from the aerospace and automotive sectors, with significant market potential and resilience against economic fluctuations [1][4][19]. Group 1: Industry Overview - Lost foam casting, also known as investment casting, is a high-precision casting process used for producing complex structures and finely finished components, primarily in aerospace and automotive industries [2][4]. - The market size of China's lost foam casting industry is projected to reach 232.31 billion yuan in 2024, with a demand of 42.63 million tons and an output value of 254.28 billion yuan, indicating a robust foundational scale [1][4][6]. - By 2025, the industry is expected to grow further, with an output value of 272.1 billion yuan and a production volume of 48.36 million tons [1][6]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The automotive sector's growth, particularly in engine blocks and turbochargers, is driving the demand for precision castings, prompting companies to expand production capacities [1][6]. - The lost foam casting industry has shown resilience during economic fluctuations, with a projected market size of 248.89 billion yuan and a demand of 44.68 million tons by 2025 [4][6]. Group 3: Industry Chain - The lost foam casting industry consists of a complex supply chain, with upstream suppliers providing essential raw materials such as steel and refractory materials, while downstream markets include aerospace, defense, medical, and automotive sectors [8][10]. - The industry is characterized by a layered competitive landscape, with high-end markets dominated by a few companies with core technologies, while mid and low-end markets face intense competition [16][19]. Group 4: Development Trends - The industry is witnessing continuous technological advancements and an expansion of application fields, with some products reaching or nearing international standards [19][21]. - The demand for high-precision and high-performance castings is increasing due to the growth of military aircraft and satellite launches, further driving the industry's expansion [19][21].