Group 1 - The article highlights the launch of a fresh whey drink by HeRun, which has garnered significant industry attention and sparked discussions about the potential of whey-based products [1][2]. - Whey is defined as a byproduct of cheese production, previously considered waste but now recognized for its nutritional value, including high-quality protein and lactose [4][5]. - The processing of whey has evolved, allowing it to be transformed into various forms such as whey powder, demineralized whey powder, and whey protein powder, catering to different food industry needs [5][7]. Group 2 - The global whey market was valued at $9.9 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $17.82 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.76% [11]. - In China, the whey protein market is expected to grow from $34.6 million in 2021 to $51.8 million by 2025, with an annual growth rate of 11.238%, surpassing the global average [11]. - The primary applications of whey include functional foods, with yogurt, adult milk powder, and milk beverages being the most common products utilizing whey as a key ingredient [11][12]. Group 3 - The article discusses various innovative applications of whey in beverages, snacks, and baking, emphasizing its role as a high-quality protein source that enhances nutritional value and product characteristics [15][18]. - Whey protein is increasingly used in sports nutrition products, including protein powders and energy bars, to meet the demands of different consumer groups [20]. - The competitive landscape of the whey powder market is characterized by leading companies leveraging product quality, brand recognition, pricing strategies, and distribution channels [21]. Group 4 - Major players in the whey market include Yili Group, Mengniu, and FrieslandCampina, which dominate the high-end market in China, collectively holding over 40% market share [21][22]. - Companies like Actus Nutrition and Agropur are recognized as leading manufacturers of whey protein ingredients, supplying a wide range of products for various applications, including infant formula and sports nutrition [22]. - The article also highlights the technological advancements in whey processing, such as membrane filtration and enzymatic hydrolysis, which are helping domestic companies reduce reliance on imports and improve product quality [21][22].

Core Insights - The dairy industry is experiencing a prolonged adjustment phase, with supply and demand still in the process of balancing, leading to a focus on cost reduction and efficiency among dairy companies [1][3] - Despite some signs of revenue decline slowing down, the industry has not yet fully recovered, with many companies still facing significant pressure [2][3] - The need to stimulate consumer demand for dairy products is critical, with innovation seen as a potential solution [1][4] Industry Performance - In 2024, the dairy industry faced intensified cyclical contradictions, with listed dairy companies reporting generally pressured performance [2] - Some companies, like Yiming Foods, reported a revenue increase of 1.8% in Q1 2025, down from 4.1% for the entire year of 2024, while Tianrun Dairy saw a decline of 2.5% in Q1 2025 compared to a 3.3% increase in 2024 [2] - The overall revenue decline for companies like Yantang Dairy and Western Pastoral continues to widen, with declines of 11.8% and 20.9% respectively [2] Market Dynamics - Promotional activities in the dairy sector have intensified, with significant discounts reported in retail, such as "buy one get one free" offers on fresh milk [2] - Sales volume for low-temperature pure milk showed slight growth in Q4 2024, but sales revenue still experienced a year-on-year decline, indicating a challenging market environment [2] Supply Chain Adjustments - The dairy industry has been undergoing a three-year cyclical adjustment, with milk production showing a decline for the first time since 2018, with a total production of 40.79 million tons in 2024, down 2.8% [3] - The average sales price of raw milk in 2024 was 3.32 yuan/kg, a significant drop of 13.42% year-on-year, attributed to rapid capacity expansion and weak consumer demand [3] Innovation and Consumer Demand - The industry is urged to focus on restoring the balance of raw milk supply and demand, with calls for innovative approaches to stimulate consumption [4] - There is a growing emphasis on developing functional and age-appropriate products, with high-end product growth beginning to show positive trends [4][5] - Current per capita dairy consumption in China is 42.4 kg, significantly below the Asian and global averages, indicating substantial growth potential [4]

Core Viewpoint - The "Two New" policy is crucial for boosting consumption, expanding domestic demand, and strengthening the domestic circulation, showing significant multiplier effects since its full implementation in 2024 [1][22]. Group 1: Impact on Consumer Behavior - The "Two New" policy has effectively enhanced consumer vitality, with reports of a 50% increase in foot traffic and a 60% rise in sales at a JD Super Experience Store in Chongqing compared to the previous year [3]. - High-tech and energy-efficient products are increasingly favored, with AI smart products seeing a threefold increase in sales in Henan province due to government subsidies [5][13]. - The "old-for-new" subsidy policy has made it easier for consumers to upgrade their appliances, with over 55 million units of home appliances and 41 million digital products sold under this initiative [13]. Group 2: Economic Growth and Investment - In the first four months, investment in equipment and tools rose by 18.2%, contributing 64.5% to overall investment growth, with related sectors like computer manufacturing and consumer goods seeing significant increases [15]. - The upgrade of production lines in companies like Yili and Zhejiang Chaowei has improved production efficiency and reduced labor costs, enhancing the overall competitiveness of the industry [17][20]. - The "Two New" policy is seen as a driver for economic transformation, creating a closed loop of investment, production, and consumption, which is essential for long-term competitiveness [22].