The future: AI and diversified growth drive the industry
China's glass fiber industry is shifting from scale expansion to quality and efficiency improvements. The penetration of AI technology and the rise of emerging markets are jointly charting a new growth trajectory for the industry.
AI is driving the upgrade of electronic glass fiber. In 2024, my country's total production of glass fiber electronic yarn is expected to reach 809,000 tons, a year-on-year increase of 2.7%. Demand for low-dielectric glass fiber suitable for AI and 5G is increasing significantly. This material optimizes signal transmission efficiency and has become a key component in smart devices. With the surge in computing power demand in areas such as AI servers and autonomous driving, the technological premium of high-end electronic glass fiber continues to stand out.
Emerging markets are flourishing in multiple areas. In the photovoltaic new energy sector, glass fiber composite frames replacing aluminum reduce costs by 30%, resulting in strong demand growth. Glass fiber felt for safety and protective applications is experiencing rapid export growth, driven by overseas markets. In applications such as marine development and smart logistics, the corrosion-resistant and lightweight properties of glass fiber are gradually gaining traction, opening up new opportunities. Wind power remains a key sector, with high-modulus glass fiber production reaching 870,000 tons in 2024, supporting the trend toward larger blades.
Green and intelligent technologies are becoming standard. The industry's unit energy consumption continues to decline, with technologies like hydrogen-powered kilns and waste fiber recycling promoting low-carbon production. Smart factories are improving efficiency through AI-powered control, driving the industry's transition toward high-quality development.
From the "nerve network" of AI equipment to the "muscles and bones" of new energy, fiberglass is integrating into the new industrial ecosystem in diverse ways. Chinese companies, with their 60% global production capacity advantage, are expected to continue to lead this transformation.