Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant impact of centralized procurement policies on the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) industry, highlighting the challenges and potential restructuring within the sector as it enters a new era of competition and pricing pressures [1][2][3]. Group 1: Impact of Centralized Procurement - The centralized procurement system has greatly affected the Western medicine industry, and similar pressures are now being felt in the TCM sector as it officially enters the "procurement era" [1][3]. - The scope of centralized procurement for TCM has expanded from 15 provinces to nationwide, with the number of products increasing to 45, indicating a growing impact on the industry [10][9]. - Many selected companies are pricing their products close to cost, leading to expectations of profit declines in the TCM industry by 2025 [11][12]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Price Trends - Despite the challenges, the price of raw materials for TCM has significantly decreased this year, with the Chinese herbal medicine price index dropping over 20% from its peak [14][13]. - Some companies that won bids in the procurement process are experiencing unexpectedly high profits due to fixed hospital procurement prices, leading to optimistic sales forecasts [17]. - The average price drop for selected products in the latest procurement round was 47.38%, with some products seeing reductions as high as 69.3% [37][38]. Group 3: Industry Restructuring and Future Outlook - The TCM industry is expected to undergo significant restructuring, with a potential reduction in the number of suppliers as centralized procurement becomes more prevalent [23][24]. - The government has issued policies aimed at enhancing the quality and development of the TCM industry, indicating a push towards modernization and improved standards [25]. - The performance of TCM companies has been under pressure, with a reported 4.6% decline in total revenue and an 18.7% drop in net profit for 75 listed TCM companies in 2024 [29][28]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - The competitive landscape is shifting, with traditional TCM giants facing challenges as their unique product strategies are tested by centralized procurement [33][40]. - Companies that previously opted out of insurance reimbursement to avoid price cuts are now facing increased pressure as more exclusive products enter centralized procurement [34][36]. - The article suggests that only companies with strong R&D capabilities, unique products, and brand advantages will thrive in the increasingly competitive environment [44][42].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant impact of centralized procurement policies on the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) industry, highlighting the challenges and potential restructuring within the sector due to these changes [1][2][21]. Group 1: Impact of Centralized Procurement - The centralized procurement system has greatly affected the Western medicine industry, and similar pressures are now being felt in the TCM sector as it enters the "procurement era" [1][3]. - The scope of centralized procurement for TCM has expanded from 15 provinces to nationwide, with the number of products increasing to 45, indicating a growing impact on the industry [10]. - Many companies that won bids in the procurement process are now pricing their products close to cost, leading to expectations of profit declines in the TCM industry by 2025 [11][12]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Price Trends - The price index for TCM raw materials peaked in July 2024 and has since dropped over 20%, which has positively affected the profit margins of some winning companies in the procurement process [13][15]. - Some companies, such as Zhaoli Pharmaceutical, are optimistic about their performance in 2024, expecting significant sales growth despite lower bid prices [15]. - The centralized procurement process is expected to lead to a reduction in the number of TCM suppliers, with larger companies likely to gain market share due to their scale and brand influence [20]. Group 3: Financial Performance of TCM Companies - In 2024, the total revenue of 75 listed TCM companies decreased by 4.6%, with net profits down by 18.7%, reflecting the financial strain on the industry [26]. - Major players like Baiyunshan have seen revenue declines, indicating the challenges faced by traditional TCM giants [28]. - The trend of independent TCM products entering centralized procurement is increasing, with significant price reductions observed, such as a 69.3% drop for a product from Guangzhou Baiyunshan [34]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Industry Restructuring - The ongoing centralized procurement policies are expected to accelerate the restructuring of the TCM industry, with many companies facing potential mergers or exits from the market [39]. - The National Medical Insurance Administration plans to expand procurement alliances, which will further challenge companies lacking cost advantages [37]. - Companies with strong R&D capabilities and unique products are likely to thrive in the increasingly competitive environment [41].