2025-11-03 02:36Summary of Conference Call on China Duty-Free Industry Industry Overview - The conference call discusses the duty-free industry in China, particularly focusing on China Duty Free Group (CDFG) and its performance amid new policies and market conditions [2][3][4]. Key Points and Arguments 1. Impact of New Duty-Free Policies The recent implementation of new duty-free policies is expected to significantly enhance conversion rates and drive the expansion of duty-free businesses, especially benefiting pilot stores in Beijing and Shanghai, with rapid growth anticipated in 2026 [2][3]. 2. Performance of China Duty Free Group (CDFG) CDFG's profits have declined from approximately 10 billion in previous years to around 4 billion in 2025 due to intensified channel competition, consumer downgrade, and the crackdown on purchasing agents. However, the new policies and the closure of Hainan's offshore market are expected to boost performance, with profits projected to reach between 5 billion to 6 billion in 2026 [2][4][5]. 3. Benefits to Other Licensed Companies Other licensed companies such as Zhuhai Duty Free, Wangfujing, and Hainan Airlines Group are also expected to benefit from the new offshore and exit optimization policies. Wangfujing is projected to reduce losses to around 400 million in 2026, while Hainan Airlines Group is anticipated to gain from its affiliate's development in Hainan [2][6]. 4. Investment Timing The current period is considered a favorable time for investing in duty-free concept stocks, as valuations are relatively low with noticeable marginal changes. It is recommended to allocate investments in large companies like CDFG for relative returns, especially with potential stock price improvements expected around the Spring Festival [2][7]. 5. Consumer Impact of Hainan Closure The closure of Hainan has not resulted in lower consumer goods tax rates but has created price advantages through the offshore duty-free framework. This change has limited consumer benefits but presents significant opportunities for licensed companies, particularly large firms like CDFG [2][8]. 6. Market Trends and Seasonal Factors The overall market trend for 2026 is optimistic, with expectations of improving data. However, attention should be paid to potential seasonal weaknesses in data post-Spring Festival, as well as monthly data changes, key time points, and government regulatory movements [2][3][9]. Additional Important Insights - The new policies have notably increased market attention and are expected to enhance the purchasing process for returning travelers, which could lead to a substantial increase in sales at city duty-free stores [3]. - Investors are advised to monitor the performance of smaller companies like Wangfujing and Hainan Airlines Group, assessing their valuations based on specific circumstances [7].