Core Insights - The Circular Economy Industry Innovation and Development Conference was held in Fengcheng, Jiangxi Province, focusing on the theme "Circular Empowerment, Innovative Symbiosis" and attracting over 200 representatives from various sectors to discuss the development of the circular economy [1] Group 1: Circular Economy Development - Fengcheng has transformed into a national-level green industry demonstration base, with a total output value of the circular economy industry reaching 56.85 billion yuan in 2024 [2] - The industrial cluster in Fengcheng focuses on recycled copper, recycled aluminum, and recycled plastics, with recycled waste copper accounting for about 12% and recycled waste aluminum for about 7.3% of the national total [2] Group 2: Environmental Impact - The implementation of a closed-loop system for resources in Fengcheng has led to significant industrial upgrades and a reduction of carbon emissions by 11.76 million tons in 2024 through the utilization of recycled copper and aluminum [3] Group 3: Strategic Goals - The "Blue Book on the High-Quality Development of Circular Economy in Fengcheng, Jiangxi" was released, outlining the development logic and practical experiences of Fengcheng, with the goal of establishing a "national green supply chain hub" [4][5]

Core Viewpoint - The copper industry is facing a structural shift characterized by a rigid supply shortage at the mining end, excess smelting capacity, and a transition between old and new demand drivers, leading to a long-term upward trend in copper prices [19][24][25]. Group 1: Upstream Resources (Mining and Recycling) - Global copper reserves are approximately 980 million tons, with a mining lifespan of about 40 years based on current production levels [32]. - In 2024, global copper mine production is expected to reach 23 million tons, with a year-on-year growth of 1.8% [35]. - China's copper mine production is projected at 1.8 million tons in 2024, a decline of 1.1% year-on-year, primarily due to resource depletion and environmental restrictions [42][46]. Group 2: Recycling Sector (Recycled Copper) - The recycled copper market is supported by national strategies, aiming for a production target of 4 million tons by 2025, with recycled metal supply accounting for over 24% [4]. - In 2024, China is expected to import 2.25 million tons of scrap copper, with domestic recycling capacity reaching 2.49 million tons [5][48]. - The price of recycled copper is projected to show significant fluctuations, with an average price of 70,400 yuan per ton in 2024 [5]. Group 3: Midstream Smelting - The global refined copper production in 2024 is estimated at 27.634 million tons, with a year-on-year increase of 4.3% [9]. - China is the largest producer of refined copper, accounting for 49.9% of global production in 2024, with a projected output of 13.644 million tons [10]. - The smelting industry is experiencing a decline in processing fees, with long-term contracts expected to drop to $21.25 per ton by 2025, significantly below the breakeven point [8][20]. Group 4: Midstream Processing (Copper Products) - In 2024, China's copper processing output is expected to reach 23.503 million tons, representing over 50% of global production [11]. - The industry is characterized by low concentration, with the top five companies holding only 30% of the market share [11]. - The demand for high-end copper products is increasing, driven by the growth in new energy and infrastructure sectors [12][13]. Group 5: Downstream Demand (End Applications) - Global refined copper consumption in 2024 is projected at 27.33 million tons, with China accounting for 58% of this demand [14]. - The demand structure in China shows that electricity and power grids account for 46% of refined copper consumption, while new energy applications are rapidly growing [15]. - The transition from traditional to new energy applications is expected to drive significant growth in copper demand, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy [19][21]. Group 6: Supply and Demand Balance - The global refined copper supply-demand balance is expected to show a surplus of 19,000 tons in 2025, a decrease from the previous year's surplus of 30,200 tons [16]. - China's refined copper consumption is projected to grow by 2.9% in 2025, reaching 16.21 million tons, driven by new energy infrastructure investments [18]. - The copper market is anticipated to face a tightening supply situation due to the rigid shortage of mining resources and the acceleration of smelting capacity clearance [19][20]. Group 7: Investment Recommendations - Key investment opportunities include resource leaders like Zijin Mining and Longyan Copper, which are positioned to benefit from global resource control [21]. - Smelting leaders such as Jiangxi Copper are expected to gain from policy-driven supply-side reforms and the elimination of inefficient capacity [20]. - Companies focusing on high-end processing and recycled copper, such as Hailiang Co. and Gree Environmental, are likely to benefit from technological advancements and policy support [21].