(Name, Telephone, E-mail
and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b)
of the Act.
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of
the Act:
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to
Section 15(d) of the Act:
The number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes
of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report was:
This annual report contains
forward-looking statements. All statements contained in this annual report other than statements of historical fact, including
statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, our business strategy and plans, and our objectives
for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “will,”
“estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” and similar
expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our
current expectations and projections about future events and trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results
of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives, and financial needs. These forward-looking
statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including those described in the “Risk Factors”
section. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is
not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent
to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking
statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the future events and trends discussed in this
annual report may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking
statements.
You should not rely upon
forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements
may not be achieved or occur. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable,
we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. We are under no duty to update any of these
forward-looking statements after the date of this annual report or to conform these statements to actual results or revised expectations.
PART I
Item 1.
|
Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
|
Not applicable for annual reports on Form 20-F.
Item 2.
|
Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
|
Not applicable for annual reports on Form 20-F.
|
A.
|
Selected financial data.
|
In the table below, we
provide you with historical selected financial data for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015. This information
is derived from our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. Historical results are not necessarily
indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period. When you read this historical selected financial data, it
is important that you read it along with the historical financial statements and related notes and “Item 5. Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects” included elsewhere in this annual report. Our audited consolidated financial statements
are prepared and presented in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America, or U.S.
GAAP.
(All amounts in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Statement of operations data:
|
|
For the year ended
December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Revenues
|
|
$
|
43,084
|
|
|
$
|
40,533
|
|
|
$
|
46,815
|
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
10,678
|
|
|
|
13,057
|
|
|
|
14,732
|
|
Operating expenses
|
|
|
6,071
|
|
|
|
4,450
|
|
|
|
6,665
|
|
Income from continuing operations before income taxes
|
|
|
4,510
|
|
|
|
8,289
|
|
|
|
9,153
|
|
Provision for Income taxes
|
|
|
1,528
|
|
|
|
1,367
|
|
|
|
2,116
|
|
Net loss (income) attributable to the non-controlling interest
|
|
|
754
|
|
|
|
(308
|
)
|
|
|
(488
|
)
|
Net income attributable to common stockholders
|
|
$
|
3,767
|
|
|
$
|
4,299
|
|
|
$
|
8,439
|
|
Balance sheet data:
|
|
As of December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Working capital
|
|
$
|
62,456
|
|
|
$
|
49,560
|
|
|
$
|
49,697
|
|
Current assets
|
|
|
89,245
|
|
|
|
63,659
|
|
|
|
62,683
|
|
Total assets
|
|
|
138,487
|
|
|
|
94,303
|
|
|
|
87,075
|
|
Current liabilities
|
|
|
26,789
|
|
|
|
14,097
|
|
|
|
13,986
|
|
Total liabilities
|
|
|
28,875
|
|
|
|
14,097
|
|
|
|
13,986
|
|
Total equity
|
|
$
|
109,612
|
|
|
$
|
80,206
|
|
|
$
|
73,089
|
|
exchange
rate information
Our financial information
is presented in U.S. dollars. Our functional currency is Renminbi (“RMB”), the currency of the PRC. Transactions denominated
in currencies other than RMB are translated into RMB at the exchange rate quoted by the People’s Bank of China at the dates
of the transactions. Exchange gains and losses resulting from transactions denominated in a currency other than the RMB are included
in statements of operations as foreign currency transaction gains or losses. Our financial statements have been translated into
U.S. dollars in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 52, “Foreign Currency
Translation”, which was subsequently codified within ASC 830, “Foreign Currency Matters”. The financial information
is first prepared in RMB and then is translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates as to assets and liabilities and
average exchange rates as to revenue and expenses. Capital accounts are translated at their historical exchange rates when the
capital transactions occurred. The effects of foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component of accumulated
other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity. The relevant exchange rates are listed below:
|
|
December 31, 2017
|
|
December 31, 2016
|
|
December 31, 2015
|
US$:RMB exchange rate
|
|
Period End
|
|
$
|
0.1537
|
|
|
Period End
|
|
$
|
0.1440
|
|
|
Period End
|
|
$
|
0.1541
|
|
|
|
Average
|
|
$
|
0.1478
|
|
|
Average
|
|
$
|
0.1506
|
|
|
Average
|
|
$
|
0.1606
|
|
We make no representation
that any RMB or U.S. dollar amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S. dollars or RMB, as the case may be, at any
particular rate, or at all. The PRC government imposes control over its foreign currency reserves in part through direct regulation
of the conversion of RMB into foreign exchange and through restrictions on foreign trade. We do not currently engage in currency
hedging transactions.
The following table sets
forth information concerning exchange rates between the RMB and the U.S. dollar for the periods indicated (
www.oanda.com
).
|
|
Midpoint of Buy and Sell Prices
for U.S. Dollar per RMB
|
|
Period
|
|
Period-End
|
|
|
Average
|
|
|
High
|
|
|
Low
|
|
2009
|
|
|
6.8272
|
|
|
|
6.8310
|
|
|
|
6.8483
|
|
|
|
6.8130
|
|
2010
|
|
|
6.6018
|
|
|
|
6.7696
|
|
|
|
6.8344
|
|
|
|
6.6018
|
|
2011
|
|
|
6.3585
|
|
|
|
6.4640
|
|
|
|
6.6357
|
|
|
|
6.3318
|
|
2012
|
|
|
6.3086
|
|
|
|
6.3116
|
|
|
|
6.3862
|
|
|
|
6.2289
|
|
2013
|
|
|
6.0220
|
|
|
|
6.0720
|
|
|
|
6.2195
|
|
|
|
5.9778
|
|
2014
|
|
|
6.1411
|
|
|
|
6.1463
|
|
|
|
6.1758
|
|
|
|
6.0924
|
|
2015
|
|
|
6.4917
|
|
|
|
6.2288
|
|
|
|
6.4917
|
|
|
|
6.0933
|
|
2016
|
|
|
6.9448
|
|
|
|
6.6441
|
|
|
|
7.0672
|
|
|
|
6.4494
|
|
2017
|
|
|
6.5063
|
|
|
|
6.7569
|
|
|
|
6.9575
|
|
|
|
6.4773
|
|
2018 (through April 26, 2018)
|
|
|
6.2725
|
|
|
|
6.3446
|
|
|
|
6.5263
|
|
|
|
6.2649
|
|
January
|
|
|
6.2841
|
|
|
|
6.4303
|
|
|
|
6.5263
|
|
|
|
6.2841
|
|
February
|
|
|
6.3280
|
|
|
|
6.3183
|
|
|
|
6.3471
|
|
|
|
6.2649
|
|
March
|
|
|
6.2726
|
|
|
|
6.3174
|
|
|
|
6.3565
|
|
|
|
6.2685
|
|
April (through April 26, 2018)
|
|
|
6.2725
|
|
|
|
6.2889
|
|
|
|
6.3045
|
|
|
|
6.2655
|
|
Over the past several years,
the Renminbi has moved from a period of strengthening against the dollar to a period of recent weakening against the dollar. Our
primary sales outside China occur in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, the Middle East and Europe, but all such sales outside China are
made in U.S. dollars. Following is a chart showing recent changes in the exchange rates between the Renminbi and U.S. dollar.
|
B.
|
Capitalization and indebtedness.
|
Not applicable for annual reports on Form 20-F.
|
C.
|
Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds.
|
Not applicable for annual reports on Form 20-F.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
A weakening of the Chinese economy (and
in particular consumer spending) could hurt demand for our products.
Our Charcoal Doctor products
are generally considered “household use and decorative items,” meaning that these products are used for beautification
and decoration purposes in addition to purification purposes. For example, consumers tend to purchase charcoal products for their
value in absorbing odors and tend to purchase some of our bamboo charcoal products for these purposes and also for the perceived
attractiveness of our products. We seek to design bamboo charcoal products that our customers want to display throughout their
homes.
As such, we have relied
on consumer spending to drive sales in this product line. In the past, sales have been increased as Chinese consumers have had
more disposable income. Since 2010, China’s GDP growth rate has slowed from more than 13% to less than 7%. If China’s
economy continues to slow, or if customer spending for household items decreases, demand for our products may be reduced, which
would negatively affect sales of our Charcoal Doctor products.
If we are unable to develop products
that meet the demands of our customers, sales of our products could decrease.
As a company that focuses
primarily on consumer products in our Charcoal Doctor line of products, and to a lesser extent electric vehicles and mining, we
rely on our ability to predict the needs and desires of customers several months before fulfilling orders for stores. If we are
unable to accurately forecast our customers’ preferences, we may lose market share to our competitors.
Our two largest competitors are significantly
larger than our company.
Although our company is
one of the largest providers of bamboo charcoal-based products of their kind, we compete with companies that make products that
have equivalent function but that are not bamboo charcoal-based, and some of these competitors are much larger than we are. Charcoal
Doctor’s two largest such competitors are Guangzhou Blue Moon Industry Co., Ltd, which makes Blue Moon branded products (“Blue
Moon”), and Shanghai SC Johnson Wax Co., Ltd, which makes Mr. Muscle branded products (“Mr. Muscle”). Blue Moon
and Mr. Muscle are substantially larger than Charcoal Doctor. We believe that they have a much greater customer recognition level
than Charcoal Doctor. Charcoal Doctor has not historically spent substantial resources on television or print advertising. As a
result, we expect that such competitors are likely to continue efforts to improve their brand recognition, while we may be unable
to do so without changing our business plan to increase spending on such advertisements.
As a charcoal-based provider of household
products, we are subject to supply risks that some of our competitors do not face.
Some of our largest competitors
in the provision of household products such as our bamboo vinegar products rely on chemical solutions, rather than charcoal and
derivatives of charcoal, to create their products. As a result, we do not believe they are subject to business risk in the event
bamboo or wood charcoal supplies are compromised. On the other hand, if we were unable to procure bamboo or wood charcoal products
or unable to procure them on attractive terms, our product line could become substantially more expensive or our growth rate could
be limited, resulting in us becoming less competitive than others in our industry.
In summer 2012, we faced
a supply shortage based on local government initiatives to reduce the risk of fire caused by charcoal. As a result, the local government
in Daxing Anlin, where one of our main suppliers of wood-based OEM BBQ charcoal is located, restricted the production of charcoal
during June, July and August 2012. At that time, our stock of OEM BBQ charcoal was insufficient to avoid demand pressures. As a
result, our revenues declined during this period. If local governments similarly reduce production of charcoal in the future, we
could be negatively impacted by the lack of supply, either as to our ability to obtain suitable product or by our ability to obtain
such product at a reasonable price.
We lack product and business diversification.
Accordingly, our future revenues and earnings are more susceptible to fluctuations than a more diversified company.
Our primary business activities
focus on bamboo-related products. Because our focus is limited in this way, any risk affecting the bamboo industry or consumers’
desire for bamboo- and bamboo charcoal-related products could disproportionately affect our business. Though we are broadening
our business focus to electric vehicles and an investment in marble mining, our lack of product and business diversification at
this time could inhibit the opportunities for growth of our business, revenues and profits.
Our suppliers’ bamboo is subject
to risks related to fire, flooding, disease and pests.
While bamboo is considered
a relatively hardy plant, it remains a plant that can be burned in fires or damaged by prolonged flooding or exposure to diseases,
fungus and pests. If our suppliers’ bamboo resources were affected by such natural risks, it could be more difficult or expensive
to source the bamboo charcoal for our products.
Increases in bamboo charcoal costs may
negatively affect our operating results.
While bamboo is a renewable
resource (and thus bamboo products like bamboo charcoal may be considered renewable), the price of raw materials may be inelastic
when we wish to purchase supplies. While we have attempted to mitigate this risk by taking advantage of decreases in other expenses
(due to better transportation infrastructure reducing the cost of bringing materials to our company and from our company to our
customers) and improving efficiency, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to control our material expenses. In addition, as
we are competing based upon low price, we will risk losing customers by increasing our selling prices. To the extent our expenses
increase beyond the price we can charge our customers, our operating results could be harmed.
We face competition from smaller competitors
that may be able to provide similar charcoal briquette products at lower prices.
Our charcoal briquette products
are valued primarily for their ability to burn and create heat. As result, our competitors in this line of business do not require
the same high technology as our competitors for our Charcoal Doctor products. For this reason, our charcoal briquette business
is subject to competition from a variety of small producers, which may be able to provide similar product for a much lower price.
To the extent our customers discriminate based on price, we may find that we lose market share to such producers. Moreover, we
may be required to reduce our price in order to maintain or slow loss of market share for such products. As charcoal briquette
products make up a substantial percentage of revenues, even at a lower profit margin, the reduction of sales of such products could
hurt our company.
Our future growth
of our electronic vehicle (EV) segment is dependent upon consumers’ willingness to adopt EVs.
Our growth is highly dependent
upon the adoption by consumers of, and we are subject to a risk of any reduced demand for, alternative fuel vehicles in general
and electronic vehicles (EVs) in particular. The market for alternative fuel vehicles (including EVs) is relatively new and rapidly
evolving, characterized by rapidly changing technologies, price competition, evolving government regulation and industry standards
both domestically and abroad, frequent new vehicle announcements and changing consumer demands and behaviors. If the market for
EVs in China does not develop as we expect or develops more slowly than we expect, our business, prospects, financial condition
and operating results will be harmed.
Our high concentration
of EVs sales to relatively few customers may result in significant impact on our liquidity, business, results of operations and
financial condition.
For the years ended
December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, major customers (above 10% of the total revenue), in the aggregate, accounted for 88%, 98% and
79%, respectively, of EV sales for Suzhou E-Motors. Due to the concentration of sales to relatively few customers, loss of one
or more of these customers will have relatively high impact on our operational results. We expect this trend to continue for the
foreseeable future. In the event there is an unfavorable change in our business relationship with our significant customers, it
could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial results.
Our specialty-used
EVs Models are highly dependent on the approvals from Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People's Republic
China (MIIT). A failure to obtain approval quickly or at all might cause significant delays in production and sales, results of
operations and financial conditions.
Each year, we submit
certain EV models’ application to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People's Republic China (MITT).
The MIIT’s approval of our application is the key for us to produce and sell any related EV products. Any delays or rejections
in our applications will have significant negative impact on our Suzhou E-Motors’ operations and financial conditions.
Our EVs make
use of lithium-ion battery cells, which have the potential to catch fire or vent smoke and flame. This may lead to additional concerns
about batteries used in automotive applications.
The battery packs in our
EV products make use of lithium-ion cells. On rare occasions, lithium-ion cells can rapidly release the energy they contain by
venting smoke and flames in a manner that can ignite nearby materials as well as other lithium-ion cells. Extremely rare incidents
of laptop computers, cell phones and EV battery packs catching fire have focused consumer attention on the safety of these lithium-ion
cells. These events have raised concerns about batteries used in automotive applications. To address these questions and concerns,
a number of battery cell manufacturers are pursuing alternative lithium-ion battery cell chemistries to improve safety. We may
have to recall our vehicles or participate in a recall of a vehicle that contains our battery packs, or redesign our battery packs,
which would be time consuming and expensive. Also, negative public perceptions regarding the suitability of lithium-ion cells for
automotive applications or any future incident involving lithium-ion cells such as a vehicle or other fire, even if such incident
does not involve us, could seriously harm our business.
Compliance with
environmental regulations can be expensive, and noncompliance with these regulations may result in adverse publicity and potentially
significant monetary damages and fines.
Our various business operations
generate noise, waste water, gaseous byproduct and other industrial waste. We are required to comply with all national and local
regulations regarding the protection of the environment. We are in compliance with current environmental protection requirements
and have all necessary environmental permits to conduct our business. However, if more stringent regulations are adopted in the
future, the costs of compliance with these new regulations could be substantial. Additionally, if we fail to comply with present
or future environmental regulations, we may be required to pay substantial fines, suspend production or cease operations. Any failure
by us to control the use of, or to adequately restrict the unauthorized discharge of, hazardous substances could subject us to
potentially significant monetary damages and fines or suspensions to our business operations. Certain laws, ordinances and regulations
could limit our ability to develop, use, or sell our products.
Developments
in alternative technologies or improvements in the internal combustion engine may materially adversely affect the demand for our
EV Products.
Significant developments
in alternative technologies, such as advanced diesel, ethanol, fuel cells or compressed natural gas, or improvements in the fuel
economy of the internal combustion engine, may materially and adversely affect our business and prospects in ways we do not currently
anticipate. Any failure by us to develop new or enhanced technologies or processes, or to react to changes in existing technologies,
could materially delay our development and introduction of new and enhanced EV products, which could result in the loss of competitiveness
of our vehicles, decreased revenue and a loss of market share to competitors.
If we are unable
to keep up with advances in electric vehicle technology, we may suffer a decline in our competitive position.
We may be unable to keep
up with changes in EV technology, and we may suffer a resulting decline in our competitive position. Any failure to keep up with
advances in EV technology would result in a decline in our competitive position which would materially and adversely affect our
business, prospects, operating results and financial condition. Our research and development efforts may not be sufficient to adapt
to changes in EV technology. As technologies change, we plan to upgrade or adapt the vehicles and introduce new models in order
to continue to provide vehicles with the latest technology, in particular battery cell technology. However, our vehicles may not
compete effectively with alternative vehicles if we are not able to source and integrate the latest technology into our vehicles.
For example, we do not manufacture battery cells, which makes us dependent upon other suppliers of battery cell technology for
our battery packs.
Changes to the Chinese government’s
subsidy support policies and further delays in subsidy payments may have negative impacts on our EV operations.
The Chinese central government
subsidy support policies, effective as of January 1, 2017, call for a 20% of reduction in central government subsidies per electric
car in 2017 from its 2016 level and the total local government subsidy match to be not more than 50% of the total central government
subsidies per electric car. The reduction of subsidies from both the central government and local governments will inevitably increase
the costs to the consumers to purchase our EVs, which may cause temporary pressure for us to expand our EV sales. The change in
subsidy payment methods in 2017 from paid-in-advance to paid post-sale and any further delay in releasing subsidy payments for
the EVs manufactured and sold in the prior years might also cause the potential delay in collection of the accounts receivable
from our business partners, which will temporarily increase the pressure on our working capital for continuing operations. The
unavailability, reduction or elimination of government and economic incentives could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, operating results and prospects.
We do not own
100% of our electric vehicle subsidiary, and we are a minority investor in Libo Haokun, our recent mining investment.
We only own 70% of
Suzhou E-Motors. Zhang Jia Gang Shi Jinke Chuangye Touzi Co. Ltd. (
张家港市金科创业投资有限公司
)
(“Jinke Touzi”) holds the remaining 30% equity interest in Suzhou E-Motors and has significant influence on its operation.
The potential for differences between us and Jinke Touzi may result in ineffective operation of Suzhou E-Motors and our operating
results would be materially negatively affected.
Further, we own an indirect 18% interest in Libo Haokun Stone Co., Ltd. (“Libo
Haokun”), a marble mining operating company. As such, we have an inability to control or significantly influence Libo Haokun’s
management and operations. If we believe that Libo Haokun is being managed or operated ineffectively, we have limited options.
Outstanding bank loans may reduce
our available funds.
We have approximately
$12.2 million in outstanding bank loans and bank acceptance notes payable as of December 31, 2017. The loans and payables are
held at multiple banks, and we used our land and property as the collateral for the debt. While our land and property are worth
more than the total loan amount and we also have approximately $9.9 million in cash and approximately $62.4 million of liquid
assets available to pay the debt, there can be no guarantee that we will be able to pay all amounts when due or refinance the
amounts on terms that are acceptable to us or at all. If we are unable to make our payments when due or to refinance such amounts,
our property could be foreclosed and our business could be negatively affected.
While we do not believe
they will impact our liquidity, the terms of the debt agreements impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us.
These restrictions could also have a negative impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations by significantly
limiting or prohibiting us from engaging in certain transactions, including but not limited to: incurring or guaranteeing additional
indebtedness; transferring or selling assets currently held by us; and transferring ownership interests in certain of our subsidiaries.
The failure to comply with any of these covenants could cause a default under our other debt agreements. Any of these defaults,
if not waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debt, in which case the debt would become immediately due and payable.
If this occurs, we may not be able to repay our debt or borrow sufficient funds to refinance it on favorable terms, if any.
If the value of our property decreases,
we may not be able to refinance our current debt.
All of our current debt
is secured by our real and other business property. If the value of our real property decreases, we may find that banks are unwilling
to loan money to us secured by our business property. A drop in property value could also prevent us from being able to refinance
that loan when it becomes due on acceptable terms or at all.
If our expansions
into new businesses are not successful, our future results of operations and growth prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
On January 27, 2016, we
entered into a framework agreement to acquire Suzhou E-Motors Co., Ltd. (“Suzhou E-Motors”), a specialty electric
vehicles manufacturer. Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement executed on May 2, 2016, Supplemental Agreement I signed on December
22, 2016 and Supplemental Agreement II signed on July 12, 2017, the Company acquired a 70% equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors
with total cash consideration of RMB 103,200,000 (approximately $15.9 million) and a share consideration of 2,500,000 restricted
shares of the Company's common stock.
Our 70% equity interest
in Suzhou E-Motors comprises a 19% equity interest owned directly through Hangzhou Jixi Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jixi”)
and a 51% equity interest owned through a series of contractual agreements with the owners of Hanzhou Wangbo Investment Management
Co., Ltd (“Wangbo”). Jixi is 100% owned through Shanghai Jiamu Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jiamu”),
which is, in turn, wholly owned by Euroasia International Capital (“Euroasia”), a 100% owned subsidiary of the Company.
These agreements include a Technical Consultation and Services Agreement, a Business Cooperation Agreement, an Equity Pledge Agreement,
a Share Disposal Agreement and a Voting Rights Proxy Agreement (collectively, the “VIE Agreements”). Pursuant to the
VIE Agreements, Jiamu has the exclusive right to provide to Wangbo consulting services related to business operations including
technical and management consulting services. All the above contractual agreements obligate Jiamu to absorb a majority of the risk
of loss from Wangbo’s activities and entitle Jiamu to receive a majority of their residual returns. In essence, Jiamu has
gained effective control over Wangbo. Therefore, the Company believes that Wangbo should be considered as a Variable Interest Entity
(“VIE”) under the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification
(“ASC”) 810 “Consolidation.”
The Company had originally
negotiated to acquire 100% of Suzhou E-Motors; however, following initial discussions, Suzhou E-Motors' minority shareholder, Zhangjiagang
Jinke Venture Capital Co., Ltd. (Jinke Venture Capital), a local government-led venture capital fund, opted to retain its 30% interest.
As we enter into this
new business, we may face competition from existing leading players in this business. If we cannot successfully address the new
challenges and compete effectively against the existing leading players in the new businesses, we may not be able to develop a
sufficiently large customer and user base, recover costs incurred for investing in, developing and marketing new businesses, and
eventually achieve profitability from these businesses, and our future results of operations and growth prospects may be materially
and adversely affected.
We face
risks and uncertainties associated with our recent investment in marble mining and processing operations.
In January 2018, we
made a purchase of an indirect 18% interest in Libo Haokun Stone Co., Ltd. (“Libo Haokun”), a marble mining operating
company. Libo Haokun’s marble mining and processing operations are subject to a number of operating risks and hazards, some
of which are beyond our control. These operating risks and hazards include: (i) unexpected maintenance or technical problems; (ii)
periodic interruptions of its mining operations due to inclement or hazardous weather conditions and natural disasters; (iii) industrial
accidents; (iv) power or fuel supply interruptions; (v) critical equipment failures; and (vi) unusual or unexpected variations
in the quarry and geological or mining conditions, such as instability of the slopes and subsidence of the working areas. These
risks and hazards may result in personal injury, damage to, or destruction of, properties or production facilities, environmental
damages, business interruptions and damage to Libo Haokun’s business reputation. In addition, the breakdown of machinery
and equipment, difficulties or delays in obtaining replacement machinery and equipment, natural disasters, industrial accidents
or other events could temporarily disrupt its operations. Any disruption for a sustained period to the operations of Libo Haokun’s
quarry or supporting infrastructure, or any change to the natural environment surrounding its quarry may have a material adverse
effect on our investment in Libo Haokun.
We may
experience increased costs or losses resulting from the hazards and uncertainties associated with mining operations.
The exploration for natural
resources and the development and production of mining operations are activities that involve a high level of uncertainty. These
can be difficult to predict and are often affected by risks and hazards outside of our control. These factors include, but are
not limited to:
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Industrial accidents, including in connection with the operation of mining transportation equipment and accidents associated with the preparation and ignition of any blasting operations, milling equipment, conveyor systems and transportation of chemicals, explosions or other materials;
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Environmental hazards, including discharge of metals, concentrates, pollutants or hazardous chemicals;
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Surface or underground fires or floods;
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Unexpected geological formations or conditions (whether in mineral or gaseous form);
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Ground and water conditions;
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Fall-of-ground accidents in underground operations;
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Other natural phenomena, such as lightning, cyclonic or tropical storms, floods or other inclement weather conditions.
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The occurrence of one or
more of these events in connection with Libo Haokun’s exploration activities and development and production of mining operations
may result in the death of, or personal injury to, its employees, other personnel or third parties, the loss of mining equipment,
damage to or destruction of mineral properties or production facilities, monetary losses, deferral or unanticipated fluctuations
in production, environmental damage and potential legal liabilities, all of which may adversely affect Libo Haokun’s and
our reputation, business, prospects, results of operations and financial position.
Mining companies
are increasingly required to consider and provide benefits to the communities and countries in which they operate, and are subject
to extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations.
As a result of public concern
about the real or perceived detrimental effects of economic globalization and global climate impacts, businesses generally and
corporations in natural resources industries, such as Libo Haokun, in particular, face increasing public scrutiny of their activities.
These businesses are under pressure to demonstrate that, as they seek to generate satisfactory returns on investment to shareholders,
other stakeholders, including employees, governments, communities surrounding operations and the countries in which they operate,
benefit and will continue to benefit from their commercial activities. Such pressures tend to be particularly focused on companies
whose activities are perceived to have a high impact on their social and physical environment. The potential consequences of these
pressures include reputational damage, legal suits, increasing social investment obligations and pressure to increase taxes and
royalties payable to governments and communities.
In addition, Libo Haokun’s
ability to successfully obtain key permits and approvals to explore for, develop and operate mines and to successfully operate
in communities in China will likely depend on its ability to develop, operate and close mines in a manner that is consistent with
the creation of social and economic benefits in the surrounding communities, which may or may not be required by law. Libo Haokun’s
ability to obtain permits and approvals and to successfully operate in particular communities may be adversely impacted by real
or perceived detrimental events associated with its activities or those of other mining companies affecting the environment, human
health and safety of communities in which we operate. Delays in obtaining or failure to obtain government permits and approvals
may adversely affect Libo Haokun’s and our operations, including Libo Haokun’s ability to explore or develop properties,
commence production or continue operations. Key permits and approvals may be revoked or suspended or may be varied in a manner
that adversely affects Libo Haokun’s operations, including our ability to explore or develop properties, commence production
or continue operations.
Libo Haokun’s exploration,
development, mining and processing operations are subject to extensive laws and regulations governing worker health and safety
and land use and the protection of the environment, which generally apply to air and water quality, protection of endangered, protected
or other specified species, hazardous waste management and reclamation. Libo Haokun has made, and expects to make in the future,
significant expenditures to comply with such laws and regulations. Compliance with these laws and regulations imposes substantial
costs and burdens, and can cause delays in obtaining, or failure to obtain, government permits and approvals which may adversely
impact Libo Haokun’s closure processes and operations.
Future changes in applicable
laws, regulations, permits and approvals or changes in their enforcement or regulatory interpretation could substantially increase
costs to achieve compliance, lead to the revocation of existing or future exploration or mining rights or otherwise have an adverse
impact on Libo Haokun’s and our results of operations and financial position. Increased global attention or regulation on
consumption of water by industrial activities, as well as water quality discharge, and on restricting or prohibiting the use of
hazardous substances in processing activities could similarly have an adverse impact on Libo Haokun’s results of operations
and financial position due to increased compliance and input costs.
Libo Haokun’s
business requires substantial capital investment and it may be unable to raise additional funding on favorable terms.
The construction and operation
of potential future mining projects and various exploration projects will require significant funding. Libo Haokun’s operating
cash flow and other sources of funding may become insufficient to meet all of these requirements, depending on the timing and costs
of development of these and other projects. As a result, new sources of capital may be needed to meet the funding requirements
of these investments, fund its ongoing business activities and pay dividends. Libo Haokun’s ability to raise and service
significant new sources of capital will be a function of macroeconomic conditions, future marble prices, its operational performance
and its current cash flow and debt position, among other factors. In the event of lower marble prices, unanticipated operating
or financial challenges, or a further dislocation in the financial markets as experienced in recent years, Libo Haokun’s
ability to pursue new business opportunities, invest in existing and new projects, fund its ongoing operations, retire or service
all of our outstanding debt and pay dividends could be significantly constrained, all of which could have an adverse effect on
our minority investment.
Competition
from other natural resource companies may harm Libo Haokun’s business.
Libo Haokun competes with
other natural resource companies to attract and retain key executives, skilled labor, contractors and other employees. It also
competes with other natural resource companies for specialized equipment, components and supplies necessary for exploration and
development. It may be unable to continue to attract and retain skilled and experienced employees, or to obtain the services of
skilled personnel and contractors or specialized equipment or supplies.
We may require additional financing in
the future and our operations could be curtailed if we are unable to obtain required additional financing when needed.
We may need to obtain additional
debt or equity financing to fund future capital expenditures. While we do not anticipate seeking additional financing in the immediate
future, any additional equity may result in dilution to the holders of our outstanding shares of capital stock. Additional debt
financing may include conditions that would restrict our freedom to operate our business, such as conditions that:
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limit our ability to pay dividends or require us to seek consent for the payment of dividends;
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increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
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require us to dedicate a portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our debt, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund capital expenditures, working capital and other general corporate purposes; and
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limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and our industry.
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We cannot guarantee that
we will be able to obtain any additional financing on terms that are acceptable to us, or at all.
The loss of any of our key customers
could reduce our revenues and our profitability.
Our key customers are principally
third party distributors and retail stores in the PRC. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, two major customers
accounted for approximately 47%, 27% and 29% of the Company’s total sales, respectively. There can be no assurance that we
will maintain or improve the relationships with these customers, or that we will be able to continue to supply these customers
at current levels or at all. Any failure to pay by these customers could have a material negative effect on our company’s
business. In addition, having a relatively small number of customers may cause our quarterly results to be inconsistent, depending
upon when these customers pay for outstanding invoices.
If we cannot maintain long-term
relationships with these major customers, the loss of our sales to them could have an adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and results of operations.
We rely on third-party distributors for
a substantial portion of our sales, which could affect our ability to efficiently and profitably distribute and market our products,
maintain our existing markets and expand our business into other geographic markets.
Sales of our products through
distributors constituted approximately 76%, 78% and 65% of our total sales in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. To the extent
our distributors are distracted from selling our products or do not expend sufficient efforts in managing and selling our products,
our sales will be adversely affected. Our ability to maintain our distribution network and attract additional distributors will
depend on a number of factors. Some of these factors include: (i) the level of demand for our brand and products in a particular
market; (ii) our ability to maintain current distribution relationships or establish and maintain successful relationships with
distributors in new geographic areas. These factors are partially outside our control because consumers ultimately determine what
they purchase and we cannot control the actions of our distributors. Our inability to achieve any of these factors in a geographic
distribution area will have a material adverse effect on our relationships with our third party distributors in that particular
geographic area, thus limiting our ability to maintain and expand our market, which will likely adversely affect our revenues and
financial results.
We buy our supplies from a relatively
limited number of suppliers, and disruption in supply may increase our production cost.
For the year ended December
31, 2017, three suppliers accounted for more than 61% of the Company’s total purchases. For the years ended December 31,
2016 and 2015, four major suppliers accounted for approximately 88% and three major suppliers accounted for approximately 61% of
the Company’s total purchases, respectively.
In 2016, we lost one
major supplier. The loss of one of the main suppliers could force us to look for alternative suppliers at higher costs and thus
increase our production costs in the coming years.
The loss of any such
suppliers could result in increased expenses for our company and result in adverse impact on our business, financial condition
and results of operations.
Our bank accounts are not insured or
protected against loss.
We maintain our cash with
various banks and trust companies located in the PRC. Our cash accounts are not insured or otherwise protected. Should any bank
or trust company holding our cash deposits become insolvent, or if we are otherwise unable to withdraw funds, we would lose the
cash on deposit with that particular bank or trust company.
We are subject to risks relating to the
banking facilities we use to overcome cash flow issues.
We generate a large proportion
of our sales revenue through wholesale channels and distribution networks (supermarkets and chain stores) requiring us to extend
net-90 day payment terms in most cases. These payment terms are difficult to negotiate given the significant bargaining power of
the counterparties to the agreements. For this reason, we rely on banking facilities to overcome cash flow shortfalls between delivery
and payment collection. Although we engage third-party debt collection agencies when required to manage counterparty risk, we cannot
guarantee that we will receive payment in a timely fashion from our customers. To the extent we fail to receive payment in time
to service our banking facilities, our business to be materially impacted.
We are substantially dependent upon our
senior management and key research and development personnel.
We are highly dependent
on our senior management to manage our business and operations and our key research and development personnel for the development
of new products and the enhancement of our existing products and technologies. In particular, we rely substantially on our chief
executive officer, Mr. Zhengyu Wang to manage our operations. Mr. Wang has been involved in the bamboo charcoal industry for more
than ten years. Due to his experience in the industry in general and our company in particular for such a long period of time,
he would be difficult to replace.
While we provide the legally
required personal insurance for the benefit of our employees, we do not maintain key man life insurance on any of our senior management
or key personnel. The loss of any one of them would have a material adverse effect on our business and operations. Competition
for senior management and our other key personnel is intense, and the pool of suitable candidates is limited. We may be unable
to quickly locate a suitable replacement for any senior management or key personnel that we lose. In addition, if any member of
our senior management or key personnel joins a competitor or forms a competing company, they may compete with us for customers,
business partners and other key professionals and staff members of our company. Although each of our senior management and key
personnel has signed a confidentiality and non-competition agreement in connection with his employment with us, we cannot assure
you that we will be able to successfully enforce these provisions in the event of a dispute between us and any member of our senior
management or key personnel.
We compete for qualified
personnel with other technology companies and research institutions. Intense competition for these personnel could cause our compensation
costs to increase, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Our future success and ability to grow
our business will depend in part on the continued service of these individuals and our ability to identify, hire and retain additional
qualified personnel. If we are unable to attract and retain qualified employees, we may be unable to meet our business and financial
goals.
We are heavily dependent upon the services
of experienced personnel who possess skills that are valuable in our industry, and we may have to actively compete for their services.
We are heavily dependent
upon our ability to attract, retain and motivate skilled personnel to serve our customers. Many of our personnel possess skills
that would be valuable to all companies engaged in our industry. Consequently, we expect that we will have to actively compete
for these employees. Some of our competitors may be able to pay our employees more than we are able to pay to retain them. Our
ability to profitably operate is substantially dependent upon our ability to locate, hire, train and retain our personnel. Moreover,
our pool of available labor in Lishui is limited, as Lishui is a relatively small city in China. Accordingly, it may be difficult
to recruit personnel to move to Lishui to work and to keep talented individuals from moving to other employers who recruit them.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to retain our current personnel, or that we will be able to attract and assimilate
other personnel in the future. If we are unable to effectively obtain and maintain skilled personnel, the development and quality
of our services could be materially impaired.
Failure to manage our growth could strain
our management, operational and other resources, which could materially and adversely affect our business and prospects.
Our growth strategy includes
building our brand, increasing market penetration of our existing products, developing new products, increasing our targeting of
the home respiratory market in China, and increasing our exports. Pursuing these strategies has resulted in, and will continue
to result in substantial demands on management resources. In particular, the management of our growth will require, among other
things:
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continued enhancement of our research and development capabilities;
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information technology system enhancement;
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stringent cost controls and sufficient liquidity;
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strengthening of financial and management controls and information technology systems; and
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increased marketing, sales and support activities; and hiring and training of new personnel.
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If we are not able to manage
our growth successfully, our business and prospects would be materially and adversely affected.
We have not yet implemented advanced
logistical management techniques, which may hamper our efficiency and growth.
We have not yet implemented
digital logistic management solutions and have not applied any advanced management techniques, such as enterprise resource planning
or any structured logistical system and procedures, which may result in a loss of efficiency and require investment at a later
stage. We have not yet committed to implement such systems and cannot guarantee that we will do so in the near future. To the extent
we do not implement such techniques in a timely or efficient manner, we may be at a competitive disadvantage to those of our competitors
who do.
Our business
may be negatively affected by adverse publicity.
Failure or perceived failure
by us to comply with legal, regulatory and compliance requirements could result in adverse publicity. In September 2015, we were
subject to significant negative publicity resulting from reports published by a short seller of our shares. This negative publicity
resulted in significant volatility in the trading price of our shares. Such adverse publicity could result in reputational harm,
lead to increased regulatory supervision, affect our ability to attract and retain customers, affect our ability to attract and
retain key personnel, affect our ability to maintain access to the capital markets, or have other material adverse effects on us
in ways that are not predictable.
Our business may be negatively affected
by low share prices in the stock market.
The trading price of our
shares has been relatively steady over the past year. But we encountered an over 70% decline in market value since 2016. The decline
in our share price could continue to harm investor confidence, affect our ability to retain existing investors, affect our ability
to attract potential investors, affect our ability to maintain access to the capital market, or have other material adverse effects
on us in ways that are not predictable.
We may be affected by disruptions to
our production facilities.
Our production facilities
are subject to breakdown or failure of equipment, power supplies or processes, performance below expected levels of output or efficiency,
obsolescence, labor disputes, natural disasters and the need to comply with relevant regulatory and requirements. From time to
time, we may need to carry out planned shutdowns of our production plants for routine maintenance, statutory inspections and testing
and may need to shut down various plants for capacity expansions and equipment upgrades. Moreover, our production processes are
continuously being modified and updated. As a result of manufacturing process updates and improvements, from time to time, we may
experience shutdowns, and disruptions to the operations. The occurrence of any of the above events may cause us to stop or suspend
our production operations and we may not be able to deliver the products to our customers on a timely basis, which would have an
adverse impact on its business, financial position and profitability.
If we fail to protect our intellectual
property rights, it could harm our business and competitive position.
We rely on a combination
of patent, trademark and trade secret laws and non-disclosure agreements and other methods to protect our intellectual property
rights. We own thirteen patents in China covering our bamboo charcoal production technology.
The process of seeking patent
protection can be lengthy and expensive, our patent applications may fail to result in patents being issued, and our existing and
future patents may be insufficient to provide us with meaningful protection or commercial advantage. Our patents and patent applications
may also be challenged, invalidated or circumvented.
We also rely on trade secret
rights to protect our business through non-disclosure provisions in employment agreements with employees. If our employees breach
their non-disclosure obligations, we may not have adequate remedies in China, and our trade secrets may become known to our competitors.
Implementation of PRC intellectual
property-related laws has historically been lacking, primarily because of ambiguities in the PRC laws and enforcement difficulties.
Accordingly, intellectual property rights and confidentiality protections in China may not be as effective as in the United States
or other western countries. Furthermore, policing unauthorized use of proprietary technology is difficult and expensive, and we
may need to resort to litigation to enforce or defend patents issued to us or to determine the enforceability, scope and validity
of our proprietary rights or those of others. Such litigation and an adverse determination in any such litigation, if any, could
result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and management attention, which could harm our business and competitive
position.
We may be exposed to intellectual property
infringement and other claims by third parties which, if successful, could disrupt our business and have a material adverse effect
on our financial condition and results of operations.
Our success depends, in
large part, on our ability to use and develop our technology and know-how without infringing third party intellectual property
rights. If we sell our branded products internationally, and as litigation becomes more common in China, we face a higher risk
of being the subject of claims for intellectual property infringement, invalidity or indemnification relating to other parties’
proprietary rights. Our current or potential competitors, many of which have substantial resources and have made substantial investments
in competing technologies, may have or may obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or
sell our branded products in either China or other countries, including the United States and other countries in Asia. The validity
and scope of claims relating to patents in our industry involve complex scientific, legal and factual questions and analysis and,
as a result, may be highly uncertain. In addition, the defense of intellectual property suits, including patent infringement suits,
and related legal and administrative proceedings can be both costly and time consuming and may significantly divert the efforts
and resources of our technical and management personnel. Furthermore, an adverse determination in any such litigation or proceedings
to which we may become a party could cause us to:
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seek licenses from third parties;
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redesign our branded products; or
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be restricted by injunctions,
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each of which could effectively prevent us
from pursuing some or all of our business and result in our customers or potential customers deferring or limiting their purchase
or use of our branded products, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
We are dependent on our brand and trademark.
We rely on our “Charcoal
Doctor” brand in the marketing and distribution of our products. We believe that we have built significant goodwill in our
brand in terms of the quality of products and services and it is widely recognized by the industry in the PRC. We consider our
“Charcoal Doctor” brand to be vital in promoting product recognition and customer loyalty. Hence, if there are any
major defects in our products or adverse publicity on our brand, the goodwill in our brand will be adversely affected and our customers
may lose confidence in our products. This will adversely affect our sales of products, hence affecting our business and financial
performance.
We may experience increased expenses
renting our production properties in Shuige Industrial Zone of Lishui.
We rent our production
properties to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd on Cen Shan Road in Shuige Industrial Zone of Lishui, subject to a concession of
a free leasehold for the first two years. The rented space accounts for approximately half of our total facilities area in Shuige
Industrial Zone of Lishui. The rental facilities may cause increased expense of building depreciation without sufficient revenue
to cover. Even as buildings’ fair value appreciates in the local area, we may face increased expense during the initial few
years of the arrangement.
Our charcoal briquette products have
relatively low technical requirements; therefore, barriers to entry are minimal.
We expect to face competition
for our charcoal briquette products because competitors can create similar products at a relatively low cost because there are
minimal barriers of entry. If competitors enter our market to create similar products they may be able to do so for a much lower
price. To the extent our customers discriminate based on price, we may find that we lose market share to such producers. Moreover,
we may be required to reduce our price in order to maintain or slow loss of market share for such products. As charcoal briquette
products make up a substantial percentage of our revenues, even at a lower profit margin, the reduction of sales of such products
could hurt our company.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
Adverse changes in political and economic
policies of the PRC government could have a material adverse effect on the overall economic growth of China, which could reduce
the demand for our products and materially and adversely affect our competitive position.
Substantially all of our
business operations are conducted in China. Accordingly, our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects
are subject to economic, political and legal developments in China. Although the Chinese economy is no longer a planned economy,
the PRC government continues to exercise significant control over China’s economic growth through direct allocation of resources,
monetary and tax policies, and a host of other government policies such as those that encourage or restrict investment in certain
industries by foreign investors, control the exchange between RMB and foreign currencies, and regulate the growth of the general
or specific market. These government involvements have been instrumental in China’s significant growth in the past 30 years.
In response to the recent global and Chinese economic downturn, the PRC government has adopted policy measures aimed at stimulating
the economic growth in China. If the PRC government’s current or future policies fail to help the Chinese economy achieve
further growth or if any aspect of the PRC government’s policies limits the growth of our industry or otherwise negatively
affects our business, our growth rate or strategy, our results of operations could be adversely affected as a result.
Labor laws in the PRC may adversely affect
our results of operations.
On June 29, 2007, the PRC
government promulgated the Labor Contract Law of the PRC, which became effective on January 1, 2008. The Labor Contract Law imposes
greater liabilities on employers and significantly affects the cost of an employer’s decision to reduce its workforce. Further,
it requires certain terminations be based upon seniority and not merit. In the event we decide to significantly change or decrease
our workforce, the Labor Contract Law could adversely affect our ability to enact such changes in a manner that is most advantageous
to our business or in a timely and cost-effective manner, thus materially and adversely affecting our financial condition and results
of operations.
Imposition of trade barriers and taxes
may reduce our ability to do business internationally, and the resulting loss of revenue could harm our profitability.
We may experience barriers
to conducting business and trade in our targeted markets, specifically South Korea, Japan and Russia, in the form of delayed customs
clearances, customs duties and tariffs. In addition, we may be subject to substantial taxes on profits, revenues, assets and payroll,
as well as value-added tax. The markets in which we plan to operate may impose onerous and unpredictable duties, tariffs and taxes
on our business and products, and there can be no assurance that this will not reduce the level of sales that we achieve in such
markets, which would reduce our revenues and profits.
Under the Enterprise Income Tax Law,
we may be classified as a “Resident Enterprise” of China. Such classification will likely result in unfavorable tax
consequences to us and our non-PRC stockholders.
China passed the Enterprise
Income Tax Law, or the EIT Law, and it is implementing rules, both of which became effective on January 1, 2008. Under the EIT
Law, an enterprise established outside of China with “de facto management bodies” within China is considered a “resident
enterprise,” meaning that it can be treated in a manner similar to a Chinese enterprise for enterprise income tax purposes.
The implementing rules of the EIT Law define de facto management as “substantial and overall management and control over
the production and operations, personnel, accounting, and properties” of the enterprise.
On April 22, 2009, the State
Administration of Taxation of China, or the SAT, issued the Circular Concerning Relevant Issues Regarding Cognizance of Chinese
Investment Controlled Enterprises Incorporated Offshore as Resident Enterprises pursuant to Criteria of de facto Management Bodies,
or the SAT Notice 82, further interpreting the application of the EIT Law and its implementation to offshore entities controlled
by a Chinese enterprise or enterprise group. Pursuant to the SAT Notice 82, an enterprise incorporated in an offshore jurisdiction
and controlled by a Chinese enterprise or enterprise group will be classified as a “non-domestically incorporated resident
enterprise” if (i) its senior management in charge of daily operations reside or perform their duties mainly in China; (ii)
its financial or personnel decisions are made or approved by bodies or persons in China; (iii) its substantial assets and properties,
accounting books, corporate stamps, board and stockholder minutes are kept in China; and (iv) at least half of its directors with
voting rights or senior management often resident in China. After SAT Notice 82, the SAT issued a bulletin, known as SAT Bulletin
45, which took effect on September 1, 2011, to provide more guidance on the implementation of SAT Notice 82 and clarify the reporting
and filing obligations of such “non-domestically incorporated resident enterprise.” SAT Bulletin 45 provides procedures
and administrative details for the determination of resident status and administration on post-determination matters. On January
29, 2014, the SAT issued Announcement of the State Administration of Taxation on Recognizing Resident Enterprises Based on the
Criteria of de facto Management Bodies, to further clarify the reporting and filing procedure for the offshore entities controlled
by a Chinese enterprise or enterprise group and recognized as a resident enterprise.
Because THL,USCNHK and
Euroasia are controlled (although indirectly) by a foreign individual, rather than by a PRC enterprise or a PRC enterprise group,
we do not believe that any of THL,USCNHK or Euroasia is a PRC resident enterprise.
However, although both SAT
Notice 82 and SAT Bulletin 45 only apply to offshore enterprises controlled by PRC enterprises or PRC enterprise groups, not those
controlled by PRC individuals or foreign individuals, the determining criteria set forth in SAT Notice 82 and SAT Bulletin 45 may
reflect the SAT’s general position on how the “de facto management body” test should be applied in determining
the tax resident status of offshore enterprises, regardless of whether they are controlled by PRC enterprises, PRC enterprise groups
or by PRC or foreign individuals. If the PRC tax authorities determine that THL or USCNHK is a PRC resident enterprise for PRC
enterprise income tax purposes, a number of unfavorable PRC tax consequences could follow. First, we may be subject to the enterprise
income tax at a rate of 25% on our worldwide taxable income as well as PRC enterprise income tax reporting obligations. In our
case, this would mean that income such as non-China source income would be subject to PRC enterprise income tax at a rate of 25%.
Currently, we do not have any non-China source income, as we complete our sales, including export sales, in China. Second, under
the EIT Law and its implementing rules, dividends paid to us from our PRC subsidiaries would be deemed as “qualified investment
income between resident enterprises” and therefore qualify as “tax-exempt income” pursuant to the clause 26 of
the EIT Law. Finally, it is possible that future guidance issued with respect to the new “resident enterprise” classification
could result in a situation in which the dividends we pay with respect to our common stock, or the gain our non-PRC stockholders
may realize from the transfer of our common stock, may be treated as PRC-sourced income and may therefore be subject to a 10% PRC
withholding tax. The EIT Law and its implementing regulations are, however, relatively new and ambiguities exist with respect to
the interpretation and identification of PRC-sourced income, and the application and assessment of withholding taxes. If we are
required under the EIT Law and its implementing regulations to withhold PRC income tax on dividends payable to our non-PRC stockholders,
or if non-PRC stockholders are required to pay PRC income tax on gains on the transfer of their shares of common stock, our business
could be negatively impacted and the value of your investment may be materially reduced. Further, if we were treated as a “resident
enterprise” by PRC tax authorities, we would be subject to taxation in both China and such countries in which we have taxable
income, and our PRC tax may not be creditable against such other taxes.
We may be subject to a significant withholding
tax should equity transfers by our non-resident enterprises be determined to have been done without a reasonable business purpose.
In December 2009, the State
Administration of Tax in China issued a circular on strengthening the management of proceeds from equity transfers by non-resident
enterprises and requires foreign entities to report indirect sales of resident enterprises. If the existence of the overseas intermediary
holding company is disregarded due to lack of reasonable business purpose or substance, gains on such sale are subject to PRC withholding
tax. Due to limited guidance and implementation history of the circular, significant judgment is required in determining the existence
of a reasonable business purpose by considering multiple factors, such as the form and substance of the arrangement, time of establishment
of the foreign entity, relationship between each step of the arrangement, relationship between each component of the arrangement,
implementation of the arrangement and the changes in the financial position of all parties involved in the transaction. Although
we believe that our transactions during all the periods presented would be determined to have reasonable business purposes, should
this not be the case, we would be subject to a significant withholding tax that could materially and adversely impact our financial
position, results of operations and cash flows.
We may be exposed to liabilities under
the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and Chinese anti-corruption law.
We are subject to the U.S.
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), and other laws that prohibit improper payments or offers of payments to foreign
governments and their officials and political parties by U.S. persons and issuers as defined by the statute for the purpose of
obtaining or retaining business. We are also subject to Chinese anti-corruption laws, which strictly prohibit the payment of bribes
to government officials. We have operations, agreements with third parties, and make sales in China, which may experience corruption.
Our activities in China create the risk of unauthorized payments or offers of payments by one of the employees, consultants or
distributors of our company, because these parties are not always subject to our control. We are in process of implementing an
anticorruption program, which prohibits the offering or giving of anything of value to foreign officials, directly or indirectly,
for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. The anticorruption program also requires that clauses mandating compliance
with our policy be included in all contracts with foreign sales agents, sales consultants and distributors and that they certify
their compliance with our policy annually. It further requires that all hospitality involving promotion of sales to foreign governments
and government-owned or controlled entities are in accordance with specified guidelines. In the meantime, we believe to date we
have complied in all material respects with the provisions of the FCPA and Chinese anti-corruption law.
However, our existing safeguards
and any future improvements may prove to be less than effective, and the employees, consultants or distributors of our Company
may engage in conduct for which we might be held responsible. Violations of the FCPA or Chinese anti-corruption law may result
in severe criminal or civil sanctions, and we may be subject to other liabilities, which could negatively affect our business,
operating results and financial condition. In addition, the government may seek to hold our Company liable for successor liability
FCPA violations committed by companies in which we invest or that we acquire.
Uncertainties with respect to the PRC
legal system could adversely affect us.
We conduct all of our business
through our subsidiaries in China. Our operations in China are governed by PRC laws and regulations. Our PRC subsidiaries are generally
subject to laws and regulations applicable to foreign investments in China and, in particular, laws and regulations applicable
to wholly foreign-owned enterprises. The PRC legal system is based on statutes. Prior court decisions may be cited for reference
but have limited precedential value.
Since 1979, PRC legislation
and regulations have significantly enhanced the protections afforded to various forms of foreign investments in China. However,
China has not developed a fully integrated legal system and recently enacted laws and regulations may not sufficiently cover all
aspects of economic activities in China. In particular, because these laws and regulations are relatively new, and because of the
limited volume of published decisions and their nonbinding nature, the interpretation and enforcement of these laws and regulations
involve uncertainties. In addition, the PRC legal system is based in part on government policies and internal rules (some of which
are not published on a timely basis or at all) that may have a retroactive effect. As a result, we may not be aware of our violation
of these policies and rules until sometime after the violation. In addition, any litigation in China may be protracted and result
in substantial costs and diversion of resources and management attention.
Governmental control of currency conversion
may affect the value of your investment.
The PRC government imposes
controls on the convertibility of the RMB into foreign currencies and, in certain cases, the remittance of currency out of China.
We receive substantially all of our revenues in RMB. Under our current corporate structure, our income is primarily derived from
dividend payments from our PRC subsidiaries. Shortages in the availability of foreign currency may restrict the ability of our
PRC subsidiaries to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other payments to us, or otherwise satisfy their foreign
currency denominated obligations. Under existing PRC foreign exchange regulations, payments of current account items, including
profit distributions, interest payments and expenditures from trade-related transactions can be made in foreign currencies without
prior approval from SAFE by complying with certain procedural requirements. However, approval from appropriate government authorities
is required where RMB is to be converted into foreign currency and remitted out of China to pay capital expenses such as the repayment
of loans denominated in foreign currencies. The PRC government may also at its discretion restrict access in the future to foreign
currencies for current account transactions. If the foreign exchange control system prevents us from obtaining sufficient foreign
currency to satisfy our currency demands, we may not be able to pay dividends in foreign currencies to our security-holders.
We are a holding company and we rely
for funding on dividend payments from our subsidiaries, which are subject to restrictions under PRC laws.
We are a holding company
incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, and we operate our core businesses through our subsidiaries in the PRC. Therefore,
the availability of funds for us to pay dividends to our shareholders and to service our indebtedness depends upon dividends received
from these PRC subsidiaries. If our subsidiaries incur debt or losses, their ability to pay dividends or other distributions to
us may be impaired. As a result, our ability to pay dividends and to repay our indebtedness will be restricted. PRC laws require
that dividends be paid only out of the after-tax profit of our PRC subsidiaries calculated according to PRC accounting principles,
which differ in many aspects from generally accepted accounting principles in other jurisdictions. PRC laws also require enterprises
established in the PRC to set aside part of their after-tax profits as statutory reserves. These statutory reserves are not available
for distribution as cash dividends. In addition, restrictive covenants in bank credit facilities or other agreements that we or
our subsidiaries may enter into in the future may also restrict the ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us. These restrictions
on the availability of our funding may impact our ability to pay dividends to our Shareholders and to service our indebtedness.
Our business may be materially and adversely
affected if any of our PRC subsidiaries declare bankruptcy or become subject to a dissolution or liquidation proceeding.
The Enterprise Bankruptcy
Law of the PRC, or the Bankruptcy Law, came into effect on June 1, 2007. The Bankruptcy Law provides that an enterprise will be
liquidated if the enterprise fails to settle its debts as and when they fall due and if the enterprise’s assets are, or are
demonstrably, insufficient to clear such debts.
Our PRC subsidiaries hold
certain assets that are important to our business operations. If any of our PRC subsidiaries undergoes a voluntary or involuntary
liquidation proceeding, unrelated third-party creditors may claim rights to some or all of these assets, thereby hindering our
ability to operate our business, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
According to the SAFE’s
Notice of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Further Improving and Adjusting Foreign Exchange Administration Policies
for Direct Investment, effective on December 17, 2012, and the Provisions for Administration of Foreign Exchange Relating to Inbound
Direct Investment by Foreign Investors, effective May 13, 2013, if any of our PRC subsidiaries undergoes a voluntary or involuntary
liquidation proceeding, prior approval from the SAFE for remittance of foreign exchange to our shareholders abroad is no longer
required, but we still need to conduct a registration process with the SAFE local branch. It is not clear whether “registration”
is a mere formality or involves the kind of substantive review process undertaken by SAFE and its relevant branches in the past.
Fluctuations in exchange rates could
adversely affect our business and the value of our securities.
Changes in the value of
the RMB against the U.S. dollar, Euro and other foreign currencies are affected by, among other things, changes in China’s
political and economic conditions. Any significant revaluation of the RMB may have a material adverse effect on our revenues and
financial condition, and the value of, and any dividends payable on our shares in U.S. dollar terms. For example, to the extent
that we need to convert U.S. dollars into Renminbi for our operations, appreciation of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar would
have an adverse effect on the Renminbi amount that we receive from the conversion. Conversely, if we decide to convert our RMB
into U.S. dollars for the purpose of paying dividends on our common shares or for other business purposes, appreciation of the
U.S. dollar against the RMB would have a negative effect on the U.S. dollar amount available to us. In addition, fluctuations of
the RMB against other currencies may increase or decrease the cost of imports and exports, and thus affect the price-competitiveness
of our products against products of foreign manufacturers or products relying on foreign inputs.
Since July 2005, the RMB
is no longer pegged to the U.S. dollar. Although the People’s Bank of China regularly intervenes in the foreign exchange
market to prevent significant short-term fluctuations in the exchange rate, the RMB may appreciate or depreciate significantly
in value against the U.S. dollar in the medium to long term. Moreover, it is possible that in the future PRC authorities may lift
restrictions on fluctuations in the RMB exchange rate and lessen intervention in the foreign exchange market.
Our trading business relies
heavily on exchange rate fluctuations. We seek to match suppliers and potential purchasers, which may be located in different geographic
areas, and to lock in the exchange rates in order to ensure an appropriate profit margin on such sales. To the extent we are unable
to obtain favorable exchange rates, we may find lower profits or losses than we expect.
We reflect the impact of
currency translation adjustments in our financial statements under the heading “accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).”
For years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, we had adjustments of $4,341,324, ($5,448,209) and ($3,977,179), respectively,
for foreign currency translations. Very limited hedging transactions are available in China to reduce our exposure to exchange
rate fluctuations. To date, we have not entered into any hedging transactions. While we may enter into hedging transactions in
the future, the availability and effectiveness of these transactions may be limited, and we may not be able to successfully hedge
our exposure at all. In addition, our foreign currency exchange losses may be magnified by PRC exchange control regulations that
restrict our ability to convert RMB into foreign currencies.
If we become directly subject to the
recent scrutiny, criticism and negative publicity involving U.S.-listed Chinese companies, we may have to expend significant resources
to investigate and resolve the matter which could harm our business operations and our reputation and could result in a loss of
your investment in our stock, especially if such matter cannot be addressed and resolved favorably.
Recently, U.S. public companies
that have substantially all of their operations in China, have been the subject of intense scrutiny, criticism and negative publicity
by investors, financial commentators and regulatory agencies, such as the SEC. Much of the scrutiny, criticism and negative publicity
has centered around financial and accounting irregularities, a lack of effective internal controls over financial accounting, inadequate
corporate governance policies or a lack of adherence thereto and, in many cases, allegations of fraud. As a result of the scrutiny,
criticism and negative publicity, the publicly traded stock of many U.S. listed Chinese companies has sharply decreased in value
and, in some cases, has become virtually worthless. Many of these companies are now subject to shareholder lawsuits and SEC enforcement
actions and are conducting internal and external investigations into the allegations. It is not clear what effect this sector-wide
scrutiny, criticism and negative publicity will have on our company and our business. If we become the subject of any unfavorable
allegations, whether such allegations are proven to be true or untrue, we will have to expend significant resources to investigate
such allegations and/or defend the Company. This situation may be a major distraction to our management. If such allegations are
not proven to be groundless, our company and business operations will be severely hampered and your investment in our stock could
be rendered worthless.
PRC regulations relating to the establishment
of offshore special purpose companies by PRC residents may subject our PRC resident shareholders to penalties and limit our ability
to inject capital into our PRC subsidiary, limit our PRC subsidiary’s ability to distribute profits to us, or otherwise adversely
affect us.
On October 21, 2005, the
SAFE issued the Notice on Issues Relating to the Administration of Foreign Exchange in Fund-raising and Return Investment Activities
of Domestic Residents Conducted via Offshore Special Purpose Companies, or Notice 75, which became effective as of November 1,
2005. According to Notice 75, prior registration with the local SAFE branch is required for PRC residents to establish or to control
an offshore company for the purposes of financing such offshore company with assets or equity interests in an onshore enterprise
located in the PRC, or an offshore special purpose company. An amendment to registration or filing with the local SAFE branch by
such PRC resident is also required for the injection of equity interests or assets of an onshore enterprise in the offshore special
purpose company or overseas funds raised by such offshore company, or any other material change involving a change in the capital
of the offshore special purpose company. Moreover, Notice 75 applies retroactively. As a result, PRC residents who have established
or acquired control of offshore special purpose companies that have made onshore investments in the PRC in the past are required
to have completed the relevant registration procedures with the local SAFE branch by March 31, 2006.
To further clarify the implementation
of Circular 75, the SAFE issued Circular 19 on May 20, 2011. Under Circular 19, PRC subsidiaries of an offshore special purpose
company are required to coordinate and supervise the filing of SAFE registrations by the offshore holding company’s shareholders
or beneficial owners who are PRC residents in a timely manner. However, on May 11, 2013, Circular 19 was annulled by Circular 21,
issued by the SAFE. Circular 21 has not yet given clear guidance as to how to complete the relevant registration procedures with
the local SAFE branch.
While Ms. Yefang Zhang,
a citizen of the Philippines, is not required to register with the SAFE, it is not clear, especially with the annulment of Circular
19 and the absence of replacement guidance, whether Mr. Zhengyu Wang, a PRC resident who presently owns no shares of our company
needs to register with the SAFE. In the event Mr. Zhengyu Wang receives any shares in the future and is a PRC resident at such
time, he would be required to register with the SAFE. We cannot provide any assurances that such registration will be completed
in a timely manner, or at all. As advised by our PRC legal counsel, if any future failure by any of our shareholders who are PRC
residents, to comply with relevant requirements under this regulation could subject such shareholders and/or our PRC subsidiaries
to fines and legal sanctions and may also limit our ability to contribute additional capital into our PRC subsidiaries or to provide
loans to our PRC subsidiaries, limit our PRC subsidiaries’ ability to distribute dividends to our company, or otherwise adversely
affect our business.
PRC regulation of loans and direct investment
by offshore holding companies to PRC entities may delay or prevent us from using the proceeds from the offerings of any securities
to make loans or additional capital contributions to our PRC operating subsidiaries.
As an offshore holding company,
our ability to make loans or additional capital contributions to our PRC operating subsidiaries is subject to PRC regulations and
approvals. These regulations and approvals may delay or prevent us from using the proceeds we received in the past or will receive
in the future from the offerings of securities to make loans or additional capital contributions to our PRC operating subsidiaries,
and impair our ability to fund and expand our business which may adversely affect our business, financial condition and result
of operations.
For example, the SAFE promulgated
the Circular on the Relevant Operating Issues concerning Administration Improvement of Payment and Settlement of Foreign Currency
Capital of Foreign Invested Enterprises, or Circular 142, on August 29, 2008. Under Circular 142, registered capital of a foreign
invested company settled in RMB converted from foreign currencies may only be used within the business scope approved by the applicable
governmental authority and may not be used for equity investments in the PRC. In addition, foreign invested companies may not change
how they use such capital without the SAFE’s approval, and may not in any case use such capital to repay RMB loans if they
have not used the proceeds of such loans. Furthermore, the SAFE promulgated a circular on November 9, 2010, or Circular 59, which
requires the authenticity of settlement of net proceeds from offshore offerings to be closely examined and the net proceeds to
be settled in the manner described in the offering documents. In addition, to strengthen Circular 142, on November 9, 2011, the
SAFE promulgated the Circular on Further Clarifying and Regulating Relevant Issues Concerning the Administration of Foreign Exchange
under Capital Account, or Circular 45, which prohibits a foreign invested company from converting its registered capital in foreign
exchange currency into RMB for the purpose of making domestic equity investments, granting entrusted loans, repaying intercompany
loans, and repaying bank loans that have been transferred to a third party. Circular 142, Circular 59 and Circular 45 may significantly
limit our ability to transfer the net proceeds from offerings of our securities or any future offering to our PRC subsidiaries
and convert the net proceeds into RMB, which may adversely affect our liquidity and our ability to fund and expand our business
in the PRC.
Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure
and Operation
We incur additional costs as a public
company, which could negatively impact our net income and liquidity.
As a public company, we
incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. In addition, Sarbanes-Oxley
and rules and regulations implemented by the SEC and The NASDAQ Capital Market require significantly heightened corporate governance
practices for public companies. We expect that these rules and regulations to increase our legal, accounting and financial compliance
costs and make many corporate activities more time-consuming and costly.
We do not expect to incur
materially greater costs as a public company than those incurred by similarly sized U.S. public companies. If we fail to comply
with these rules and regulations, we could become the subject of a governmental enforcement action, investors may lose confidence
in us and the market price of our common shares could decline.
We have guaranteed the bank loan and
renewable bank acceptance notes of a related party; if this related party fails to pay the bank loan or bank acceptance notes,
our property may be subject to foreclosure.
In July 2017, we provided
a guaranty on a line of credit on behalf of a related party, Forasen Group. Forasen Group’s outstanding line of credit of
RMB 57.07 million (approximately $8.8 million) will expire on July 23, 2020.
In connection with these
guarantees, we pledged our building with carrying value at approximately $6.4 million as collateral for Forasen Group's loans and
renewable acceptance notes.
At the time we offered these
guarantees, we believed Forasen Group would be able to repay (and would in fact repay) such loans and bank acceptance notes based
on the following factors:
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Forasen Group, like our Company, is controlled by Ms. Yefang Zhang and Mr. Zhengyu Wang. For this reason, we are aware that Forasen Group has historically had a strong credit history with the banks with which it does business.
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As of December 31, 2017, we understand that Forasen Group had approximately RMB 34.3 million in cash,
RMB 465.9 million in current assets and RMB 515.9 million in total assets, compared with approximately RMB 254.7 million in current
liabilities, RMB 25 million in loans and RMB 60 million in notes payable, resulting in a current ratio of 1.82 at such date. Moreover,
for the year ended December 31, 2017, Forasen Group recorded net income of RMB 11.6 million on revenue of RMB 852.4 million and
gross profit of RMB 15.3 million.
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Entities controlled by our employees,
officers and/or directors control a significant percentage of our common shares, decreasing your influence on shareholder decisions.
Entities controlled
by our employees, officers and/or directors, in the aggregate, beneficially own approximately 44.53% of our outstanding shares
as of April 15, 2018. As a result, our employees, officers and directors possess substantial ability to impact our management
and affairs and the outcome of matters submitted to shareholders for approval. These shareholders, acting individually or as a
group, could exert control and substantial influence over matters such as electing directors and approving mergers or other business
combination transactions. This concentration of ownership and voting power may also discourage, delay or prevent a change in control
of our company, which could deprive our shareholders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their shares as part of a sale
of our company and might reduce the price of our common shares. These actions may be taken even if they are opposed by our other
shareholders. See “Share Ownership.”
The obligation to disclose information
publicly may put us at a disadvantage to competitors that are private companies.
As a publicly listed company,
we are required to file periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission upon the occurrence of matters that are material
to our company and shareholders. In some cases, we need to disclose material agreements or results of financial operations that
we would not be required to disclose if we were a private company. Our competitors may have access to this information, which would
otherwise be confidential. This may give them advantages in competing with our company. Similarly, as a U.S.-listed public company,
we are governed by U.S. laws that our competitors, which are mostly private Chinese companies, are not required to follow. To the
extent compliance with U.S. laws increases our expenses or decreases our competitiveness against such companies, our public listing
could affect our results of operations.
We are a “foreign private issuer,”
and our disclosure obligations differ from those of U.S. domestic reporting companies. As a result, we may not provide you the
same information as U.S. domestic reporting companies or we may provide information at different times, which may make it more
difficult for you to evaluate our performance and prospects.
We are a foreign private
issuer and, as a result, we are not subject to the same requirements as U.S. domestic issuers. Under the Exchange Act, we are
subject to reporting obligations that, to some extent, are more lenient and less frequent than those of U.S. domestic reporting
companies. For example, we are not required to issue quarterly reports or proxy statements. We are not required to disclose detailed
individual executive compensation information. Furthermore, our directors and executive officers are not required to report equity
holdings under Section 16 of the Exchange Act and are not subject to the insider short-swing profit disclosure and recovery regime.
As a foreign private issuer,
we will also be exempt from the requirements of Regulation FD (Fair Disclosure) which, generally, are meant to ensure that select
groups of investors are not privy to specific information about an issuer before other investors. However, we will still be subject
to the anti-fraud and anti-manipulation rules of the SEC, such as Rule 10b-5 under the Exchange Act. Since many of the disclosure
obligations imposed on us as a foreign private issuer differ from those imposed on U.S. domestic reporting companies, you should
not expect to receive the same information about us and at the same time as the information provided by U.S. domestic reporting
companies.
Our directors’ and executive officers’
other business activities may pose conflicts of interest.
Our directors and executive
officers have other business interests outside the company that could potentially give rise to conflicts of interest. For example,
our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Zhengyu Wang, and his wife and our director, Yefang Zhang, collectively own all of Zhejiang
Forasen Group Co., Ltd. (“Forasen Group”). The Forasen Group’s primary business areas are investment, rubber
trading, foodstuff production, and financial management. We also have historically engaged in rubber trading. Although we have
significantly reduced our trading in rubber at Tantech to immaterial levels, both businesses were for a time trading similar products.
Mr. Wang and Ms. Zhang work with the Forasen Group’s rubber trading department and other advisors to locate opportunities
that meet the Forasen Group’s investment criteria. As Tantech has significantly reduced its rubber trading activities, they
anticipate that any rubber trading opportunities would be presented to and considered by the Forasen Group rather than by Tantech.
Yefang Zhang is also the
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Farmmi, Inc. (“Farmmi”), another Nasdaq listed company, and Zhengyu Wang is
a director of Farmmi. Mr. Wang has historically devoted approximately 15% of his time to matters concerning Farmmi, approximately
70% of his time to matters for Tantech, and approximately 15% of his time to matters concerning Forasen Group. As Ms. Zhang and
Mr. Wang devote considerable time and efforts to Farmmi and Forasen Group, these sort of business activities could both distract
them from focusing on Tantech and pose an issue of time commitment.
Mr. Wang and Ms. Zhang
signed a Non-Competition Agreement with our company and Farmmi which provides that Mr. Wang and Ms. Zhang shall not vote in favor
or otherwise cause our Company to engage in the business that Farmmi conducts. Although, because of these non-competition agreements,
we do not believe that there are business activities of Mr. Wang and Ms. Zhang that will compete directly with our business operations,
it is possible that the enforceability of these agreements may be challenged and a conflict of interest may occur.
In addition,
Forasen Group currently occupies approximately 500 square meters of our Tianning Street facility. We have not historically charged
Forasen Group for renting this office space, but plan to do so in the near future. Although we believe we engage in sound corporate
governance practices, there remains the risk that our company may be negatively affected by our directors’ or executive
officers’ conflicts of interest.
An insufficient amount of insurance could
expose us to significant costs and business disruption.
While we have purchased
insurance to cover our certain assets and property of our business, the amounts and scope of coverage could leave our business
inadequately protected from loss. If we were to incur substantial losses or liabilities due to fire, explosions, floods, other
natural disasters or accidents or business interruption, our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common
Shares
We are an “emerging growth company,”
and we cannot be certain if the reduced reporting requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common shares
less attractive to investors.
We are an “emerging
growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, or the JOBS Act. For as long as we continue to be
an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other
public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements
of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports
and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and shareholder approval
of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We could be an emerging growth company for up to five years, although
we could lose that status sooner if our revenues reach $1.07 billion, if we issue more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt
in a three year period, or if the market value of our common shares held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of any June
30 before that time, in which case we would no longer be an emerging growth company as of the following December 31. We cannot
predict if investors will find our common shares less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find
our common shares less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common shares and our stock price
may be more volatile.
Under the JOBS Act, emerging
growth companies can also delay adopting new or revised accounting standards until such time as those standards apply to private
companies. We have irrevocably elected not to avail our company of this exemption from new or revised accounting standards and,
therefore, are subject to the same new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies.
If we continue to be unable to implement
and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in the future, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and
completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common shares may decline.
As a public company, we
are required to maintain internal control over financial reporting and to report any material weaknesses in such internal control.
In addition, beginning with this annual report on Form 20-F, we are required to furnish a report by management on the effectiveness
of our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. If we continue to identify
material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, if we are unable to comply with the requirements of Section
404 in a timely manner or assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our independent registered
public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting
when required, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of
our common shares could be negatively affected, and we could become subject to investigations by the stock exchange on which our
securities are listed, the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, or other regulatory authorities, which could require
additional financial and management resources.
The requirements of being a public company
may strain our resources and divert management’s attention.
As a public company, we
are subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act, the Dodd-Frank Act, the listing requirements of the securities exchange on which we list, and other applicable securities
rules and regulations. Despite recent reforms made possible by the JOBS Act, compliance with these rules and regulations will nonetheless
increase our legal and financial compliance costs, make some activities more difficult, time-consuming or costly and increase demand
on our systems and resources, particularly after we are no longer an “emerging growth company.” The Exchange Act requires,
among other things, that we file annual, quarterly, and current reports with respect to our business and operating results.
As a result of disclosure
of information in this annual report and in filings required of a public company, our business and financial condition become more
visible, which we believe may result in threatened or actual litigation, including by competitors and other third parties. If such
claims are successful, our business and operating results could be harmed, and even if the claims do not result in litigation or
are resolved in our favor, these claims, and the time and resources necessary to resolve them, could divert the resources of our
management and adversely affect our business, brand and reputation and results of operations.
We also expect that being
a public company and these rules and regulations make it more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance,
and we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain coverage. These factors could also
make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified members of our board of directors, particularly to serve on our audit
committee and compensation committee, and qualified executive officers.
The market price of our common shares
may be volatile or may decline regardless of our operating performance, and you may not be able to resell your shares at or above
the price you paid.
The trading prices for
our common shares have fluctuated since we first listed our common shares. Since our common shares became listed on the NASDAQ
on March 24, 2015, the trading price of our common shares has ranged from $1.00 to $33.97 per common share, and the last reported
trading price on April 27, 2018 was $3.02 per common share. The market price of our common shares may fluctuate significantly in
response to numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control, including:
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actual or anticipated fluctuations in our revenue and other operating results;
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the financial projections we may provide to the public, any changes in these projections or our failure to meet these projections;
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actions of securities analysts who initiate or maintain coverage of us, changes in financial estimates by any securities analysts who follow our company, or our failure to meet these estimates or the expectations of investors;
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announcements by us or our competitors of significant products or features, technical innovations, acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, or capital commitments;
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price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market, including as a result of trends in the economy as a whole;
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lawsuits threatened or filed against us; and
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other events or factors, including those resulting from war or incidents of terrorism, or responses to these events.
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In addition, the stock markets
have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected and continue to affect the market prices of equity securities
of many companies. Stock prices of many companies have fluctuated in a manner unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance
of those companies. In the past, stockholders have filed securities class action litigation following periods of market volatility.
If we were to become involved in securities litigation, it could subject us to substantial costs, divert resources and the attention
of management from our business, and adversely affect our business.
We do not intend to pay dividends for
the foreseeable future.
We currently intend to retain
any future earnings to finance the operation and expansion of our business, and we do not expect to declare or pay any dividends
in the foreseeable future. As a result, you may only receive a return on your investment in our common shares if the market price
of our common shares increases.
We will incur increased costs as a result
of being a public company.
As a public company, we
incur legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. For example, we must now engage U.S. securities
law counsel and U.S. auditors that we did not require as a private company, and we have annual payments for listing on NASDAQ.
In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as new rules subsequently implemented by the SEC and NASDAQ, have required changes
in corporate governance practices of public companies. We expect these new rules and regulations to increase our legal, accounting
and financial compliance costs and to make certain corporate activities more time-consuming and costly. In addition, we incur additional
costs associated with our public company reporting requirements. While it is impossible to determine the amounts of such expenses,
we expect that we incur expenses of between $500,000 and $1 million per year that we did not experience as a private company.
U.S. tax authorities could treat us as
a “passive foreign investment company,” which could have adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. shareholders.
A non-U.S. entity treated
as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company,” or
a PFIC, for any taxable year for which either (i) at least 75% of its gross income consists of certain types of “passive
income” or (ii) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation’s assets produce, or are held for the production
of, those types of passive income. For purposes of these tests, passive income includes rents and royalties (other than rents and
royalties that are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of a trade or business) and does not include
income derived from the performance of services.
If we are treated as a PFIC,
U.S. Holders would ordinarily be able to mitigate certain of the negative tax consequences if they are able to make: (i) a timely
qualified electing fund (“QEF”) election; (ii) a protective QEF election; or (iii) a mark to market election with respect
to the first taxable year in which we are considered a PFIC during the U.S. Holder’s holding period in its shares.
We are not committing to
provide our U.S. Holders with the information required for making a QEF election or protective QEF election. If we fail to provide
such information, a QEF election with respect to such entity generally will not be available. In such event, the rules described
in the next paragraph generally will apply.
If we are treated as a PFIC,
a U.S. Holder that does not make a QEF election generally will be subject to a special tax and an interest charge upon the sale
of its shares or receipt of an “excess distribution” with respect to its shares. A U.S. Holder will be treated as receiving
an “excess distribution” if the amount of the distributions received by the U.S. Holder in any taxable year is more
than 125% of the average annual distributions paid by the Company with respect to its shares during the three preceding taxable
years (or the period in which the U.S. Holder held such shares if shorter).
In addition, a portion of
any gain recognized by a U.S. Holder upon the sale of our shares may be recharacterized as ordinary income. Further, any dividends
received from the Company, if the Company is treated as a PFIC, will not constitute qualified dividend income and will not be eligible
for the reduced 20% rate of tax even if such rate would be available otherwise. If a U.S. Holder holds our shares during any taxable
year in which we are treated as PFICs, such shares will generally be treated as stock in a PFIC for all subsequent years.
We are subject to liability risks stemming
from our foreign status, which could make it more difficult for investors to sue or enforce judgments against our company.
Our operations and assets
are located in the PRC. In addition, most of our executive officers and directors are non-residents of the U.S., and substantially
all the assets of such persons are located outside the U.S. As a result, it could be difficult for investors to effect service
of process in the U.S., or to enforce a judgment obtained in the U.S. against us or any of these persons.
In addition, British Virgin
Islands companies may not have standing to initiate a shareholder derivative action in a federal court of the United States. The
circumstances in which any such action may be brought, and the procedures and defenses that may be available in respect to any
such action, may result in the rights of shareholders of a British Virgin Islands company being more limited than those of shareholders
of a company organized in the United States. Accordingly, shareholders may have fewer alternatives available to them if they believe
that corporate wrongdoing has occurred. The British Virgin Islands courts are also unlikely to recognize or enforce against us
judgments of courts in the United States based on certain liability provisions of U.S. securities law; and to impose liabilities
against us, in original actions brought in the British Virgin Islands, based on certain liability provisions of U.S. securities
laws that are penal in nature. There is no statutory recognition in the British Virgin Islands of judgments obtained in the United
States, although the courts of the British Virgin Islands will generally recognize and enforce the non-penal judgment of a foreign
court of competent jurisdiction without retrial on the merits. This means that even if shareholders were to sue us successfully,
they may not be able to recover anything to make up for the losses suffered.
Lastly, under the law of
the British Virgin Islands, there is little statutory law for the protection of minority shareholders other than the provisions
of the BVI Act dealing with shareholder remedies. The principal protection under statutory law is that shareholders may bring an
action to enforce the constituent documents of the corporation, our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association.
Shareholders are entitled to have the affairs of the company conducted in accordance with the general law and the articles and
memorandum.
There are common law rights
for the protection of shareholders that may be invoked, largely dependent on English company law, since the common law of the British
Virgin Islands for business companies is limited. Under the general rule pursuant to English company law known as the rule in
Foss
v. Harbottle
, a court will generally refuse to interfere with the management of a company at the insistence of a minority of
its shareholders who express dissatisfaction with the conduct of the company’s affairs by the majority or the board of directors.
However, every shareholder is entitled to have the affairs of the company conducted properly according to law and the constituent
documents of the corporation. As such, if those who control the company have persistently disregarded the requirements of company
law or the provisions of the company’s memorandum and articles of association, then the courts will grant relief. Generally,
the areas in which the courts will intervene are the following: (1) an act complained of which is outside the scope of the authorized
business or is illegal or not capable of ratification by the majority; (2) acts that constitute fraud on the minority where the
wrongdoers control the company; (3) acts that infringe on the personal rights of the shareholders, such as the right to vote; and
(4) where the company has not complied with provisions requiring approval of a special or extraordinary majority of shareholders,
which are more limited than the rights afforded minority shareholders under the laws of many states in the United States.
Item 4.
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Information on the Company
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A.
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History and Development of the Company
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Tantech Bamboo was established in October 2002 under the trading name “Lishui Zhonglin High Tech
Co., Ltd.” by its incumbent owner. Following the establishment of the Forasen Green Energy Group, later renamed Forasen Group
Ltd. (“Forasen Group”), in May 2003, 60% of THL’s shares were acquired by the Forasen Group. A second subsidiary,
Tantech Charcoal, was acquired in September 2006 to manage the Forasen Group’s export business. In September 2008 a third
subsidiary, Tantech Energy, was established to research and develop bamboo charcoals application as a carbon component for EDLCs.
On December 14, 2017, the Company entered into a sale agreement and related agreements to transfer its EDLC carbon business (including
intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd. (the “Buyer”), a PRC start-up company
controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, the Company’s then Chief Technology Officer (the “CTO”). Following the renaming
of the Forasen Group to its current name, 95% of Tantech Bamboo’s shares were acquired by USCNHK, a Hong Kong registered
company, in December 2010. In May and December 2016, Tantech Holdings (Lishui) Co., Ltd., formerly Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology
Co., Ltd., a USCNHK’s wholly owned subsidiary, acquired 100% of Tantech Bamboo’s shares from USCNHK and five individuals.
Historical Timeline
Below is a brief timeline
of key dates in our Company’s history since its formation.
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September 2001: Tantech Charcoal is established.
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October 2002: Tantech Bamboo is established as “Lishui
Zhonglin High Tech Co., Ltd.” with registered capital of RMB 3.15 million.
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April 2003: Lishui Forasen Green Industry Group (the former name of Forasen Group Ltd (“Forasen Group”)) was established.
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May 2003: Forasen Group acquires 60% of Tantech Bamboo.
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December 2005: (1) Tantech Bamboo reorganizes
its structure (a) from a limited company to a shareholder company and (b) to increase registered capital to RMB 21 million,
resulting in a decrease of Forasen Group’s interest to 41.24%; (2) Tantech Bamboo is renamed “Zhejiang Tantech
Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd.”; (3) Zhengyu Wang becomes legal representative of Tantech Bamboo.
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September 2006: Tantech Bamboo acquires Tantech Charcoal by transferring shares from Forasen Group and natural shareholders to Tantech Bamboo. As a subsidiary, Tantech Charcoal’s business scope is exporting Forasen Group’s products to a multitude of countries worldwide.
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September 2007: Forasen Group’s interest in Tantech Bamboo increases to 44.25%.
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January 2008: Tantech Bamboo increases its registered capital to RMB 27 million, decreasing Forasen Group’s
interest to 34.41%.
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July 2008 through April 2009: Several shareholders of Tantech Bamboo transfer their interests to Forasen Group, increasing its interest in Tantech Bamboo to 51.45%.
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September 2008: Tantech Energy is established and operates as subsidiary of Tantech Bamboo.
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October 2008: USCNHK is established as “Raymond & O/B Raysucess Co., Limited”.
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October 2009: Forasen Group is renamed “Forasen Group”.
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November 2010: THL is established as “Sinoport Enterprises Limited.”
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December 2010: (1) USCNHK is renamed “USCNHK Group Limited”; (2) Tantech Bamboo increases
its registered capital to RMB 80 million, increasing Forasen Group’s interest to 95%; (3) Forasen Group transfers all of
its interest in Tantech Bamboo to USCNHK.
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April 2013: THL is renamed “Tantech Holdings Ltd.”
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March 2015: THL completed an initial public offering of its common shares and listing on the NASDAQ Capital Market.
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April 2016: USCNHK established a new subsidiary as “Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd.”
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May 2016: USCNHK transferred 95% of Tantech Bamboo’s shares it owned to Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd.
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December 2016: Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd acquired the remaining 5% of Tantech Bamboo’s shares.
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May 2017: Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd changes its name to Lishui Tantech Energy Technology Co., Ltd, which in turn changed its name in July 2017 to Tantech Holdings (Lishui) Co., Ltd.
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On July 12, 2017, the Company acquired a 70% equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors. The 70% equity interest comprises a 19% equity interest owned directly through Hangzhou Jixi Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jixi”) and a 51% equity interest owned through a series of contractual agreement with the owners of Hanzhou Wangbo Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Wangbo”). Jixi is 100% owned by Shanghai Jiamu Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jiamu”), which is, in turn, wholly owned by Euroasia International Capital (“Euroasia”), a 100% owned subsidiary of the Company. These agreements include a Technical Consultation and Services Agreement, a Business Cooperation Agreement, an Equity Pledge Agreement, a Share Disposal Agreement and a Voting Rights Proxy Agreement (collectively “VIE Agreements”). Pursuant to the VIE Agreements, Jiamu has the exclusive right to provide Wangbo consulting services related to business operations including technical and management consulting services. The VIE Agreements obligate Jiamu to absorb a majority of the risk of loss from Wangbo’s activities and entitle Jiamu to receive a majority of their residual returns. In essence, Jiamu has gained effective control over Wangbo. Therefore, the Company believes that Wangbo should be considered as a Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”). Euroasia is incorporated in Hong Kong, PRC. Jiamu is incorporated in Shanghai, PRC. Both Jixi and Wangbo are incorporated in Hanzhou, PRC. Euroasia also has a wholly owned subsidiary, Euroasia New Energy Automotive (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd (“Euroasia New Energy”). They are all investment holding companies with no significant business activities.
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On December 14, 2017, the Company entered into a sale agreement and related agreements to transfer its EDLC carbon business (including intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd., a PRC start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, our former Chief Technology Officer.
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On January 10, 2018, the Company signed a share purchase agreement (the “Agreement”) with Shanghai Shicai Minerals Co., Ltd. (“Shanghai Shicai”) to acquire all of the shares of Lishui Xincai Industrial Co., Ltd. (“Lishui XinCai”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shanghai Shicai, at a price of approximately $18.2 million (or RMB 120 million). Lishui Xincai owns 18% of the equity interests in Libo Haokun Stone Co., Ltd. (“Libo Haokun”). Following the completion of the acquisition, the Company will indirectly hold a 18% stake in Libo Haokun.
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We develop and manufacture
bamboo-based charcoal products for industrial energy applications and household cooking, heating, purification, agricultural and
cleaning uses. We have grown over the past decade to become a pioneer in charcoal products industry made from carbonized bamboo.
We are a highly specialized high-tech enterprise producing, researching and developing bamboo charcoal based products with an established
domestic and international sales and distribution network. In 2017, we acquired a controlling equity interest in Suzhou E-Motors,
and we intend to grow our business to include the manufacture and sale of electric vehicles.
We provide our charcoal
products in the following areas:
We oversee a national sales
network that has a presence in 17 cities throughout China. We sell approximately 90% of our products in China, and the remaining
10% of products are sold internationally. We sell products in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, the Middle East and Europe.
In addition to our bamboo
charcoal products, we also derive revenues from our trading activities, which primarily relate to industrial purchases and sales
of charcoal.
We are headquartered
in the bamboo rich southwest of Zhejiang Province, in the city of Lishui. Zhejiang province, located in southeastern coastal China,
is China’s tenth largest province in population, with 54.5 million residents, and eighth in terms of population density.
The first province in China without any counties in the poverty-county list of the central government, Zhejiang has become one
of the wealthiest and most commercial provinces in China. Its province-wide GDP of approximately RMB 4.6 trillion in 2016 places
it as the fourth highest in China in absolute amount.
Lishui is a prefecture-level
city located in southwest Zhejiang province. Approximately 2.5 million residents live in the city, and city-wide GDP is approximately
RMB 50.6 billion. Lishui’s primary industries include wood and bamboo production, ore smelting, textile, clothes making,
construction materials, pharmaceutical chemistry, electronic machinery and food processing. As to wood and bamboo production, approximately
69% of Lishui prefecture is covered with forest, giving it the nickname “The Foliage Ocean of Zhejiang.”
Zhejiang Province
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City of Lishui
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We have relocated all
of our production, research and development (“R&D”) and management facilities a newly built production facility
in the Shuige Industrial Zone, 20 kilometers from downtown Lishui. The facility covers a land area of 37,248 square meters (9.7
acres) and includes two dormitories, a large office and R&D building, two buildings housing Charcoal Doctor production and
storage facilities, a five story building for charcoal briquette production, four buildings housing a complete EDLC carbon production
line and one inventory warehouse for EDLC carbon raw materials. Facilities boast an array of sophisticated and automated production
machinery and a water treatment plant. Gross floor area stands at 51,419 square meters (12.7 acres). On December 2017, we discontinued
our EDLC business and rent our EDLC production facilities to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd.
We rely on a combination of patent, trademark and trade secret laws and non-disclosure agreements and
other methods to protect our intellectual property rights. We currently own six patents in China covering our bamboo charcoal production.
For the years ended
December 31, 2017, three major suppliers accounted for more than 61% of the Company’s total purchases. For the years ended
December 31, 2016 and 2015, four major suppliers accounted for approximately 88% and three major suppliers accounted for approximately
61% of the Company’s total purchases, respectively. Because we purchase a material amount of our raw materials from these
suppliers, the loss of any such suppliers could result in increased expenses for our company and result in adverse impact on our
business, financial condition and results of operations.
Bamboo and Bamboo Charcoal
As a company primarily focused
on bamboo charcoal, our business is in a sub-part of China’s bamboo industry. Government policies that encourage the use
of bamboo also benefit the bamboo charcoal industry. Accordingly, we provide a brief overview of bamboo and those elements of China’s
bamboo industry, insofar as they have an effect on the bamboo charcoal industry in general and our company in particular.
Bamboo
Bamboo plants are some of
the fastest growing plants in the world, with some varieties growing more than three feet per day. Moreover, Bamboo can be re-grown
quickly following harvesting, ensuring high frequency utilization without shortages. Unlike trees, individual bamboo culms emerge
from the ground at their full diameter and grow to their full height in a single growing season of three to four months. Over the
next 2–5 years, fungus begins to form on the outside of the culm, which eventually penetrates and overcomes the culm. Eventually
the fungal growths cause the culm to collapse and decay. As a result, bamboo culms generally have life cycles of up to ten years,
at which point they must be cut down in order to preserve the environment of the surrounding forest. Optimal quality bamboo culms
for carbonization are cut at five years of age. Additional bamboo can be grown in the same area where previous culms grew.
Bamboo is considered environmentally
friendly because it takes in substantial amounts of carbon dioxide and gives off oxygen as it grows. Indeed, bamboo sequesters
more carbon dioxide than an equivalent region of plantation trees. Moreover, harvesting of bamboo is considered more environmentally
friendly than allowing it to live through the full life cycle, as such harvesting maximizes the amount of carbon dioxide the bamboo
can sequester because of the effects of fungus noted above.
The total value of China's bamboo industry was approximately $30 billion. It employs 7.75 million people
and has become a pillar industry of development of economic society of China’s bamboo main producing area and major income
source of peasants’ families. Given bamboo’s importance in China, we believe that favorable government policies and
regulations encouraging the advancement of bamboo technology in China generally will create an environment favorable to our increased
production of bamboo-based charcoal products. The Chinese government is also working to develop its bamboo industry to meet its
goals in environmental protection and green economic development, as planting bamboo is both profitable and environmentally-friendly,
according to the International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (“INBAR”). Moreover, given the central government’s
goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP by 40 to 45 percent by 2020 compared to 2005, we expect the bamboo technology
industry to continue to be important to the country’s long-term planning.
China now produces approximately
80% of the world’s bamboo and consumes approximately 60% of that production. According to statistics from INBAR, China has
more than 6 million hectares for bamboo production and over 500 bamboo species. In 2012, the domestic industry was worth $19.5
billion and employed more than 7.75 million people.
During a period of rampant
deforestation, China put in place restrictions on harvesting of natural wood and encouraged the country to make more use of bamboo.
Under the National Forest Protection Program (“NFPP”), China implemented natural forest logging bans that covered 17
provinces in China. These bands required consumers of charcoal to look to other sources for creation of charcoal than the natural
trees they were most familiar with using. During this time, bamboo charcoal became a viable alternative in the country.
Bamboo has many desirable
characteristics compared to timber based products:
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Culms are ideally allowed to reach 5-7 years of maturity prior to full capacity harvesting. The clearing out or thinning of culms, particularly older decaying culms, helps to ensure adequate light and resources for new growth.
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Commercial growers can annually harvest between one-quarter and one-third of a bamboo grove that is at least three years old. Harvesting at such rates allows continuous, sustainable harvesting.
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Bamboo will re-grow from same rootstalk (rhizome);
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Plant tends to be drought tolerant
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Bamboo minimizes carbon dioxide gases and generates up to 35% more oxygen than an equivalent area of trees. One hectare of bamboo can sequester 62 tons of CO
2
/year, while one hectare of young forest can sequester 15 tons of CO
2
/year.
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The physical and environmental
properties of bamboo make it an exceptional economic resource for a wide range of uses. It grows quickly and can be harvested annually
without depletion of the parent plant and without causing harvesting damage or deterioration in soil quality; in addition bamboo
is very versatile and has many uses in the construction, culinary, furniture, pulp, pharmaceutical, and textiles industries. New
uses for bamboo are being developed as we understand its biological, chemical and physical characteristics.
According to the United
Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization the bamboo industry affects the lives of about 1.5 billion people around the
world. About 2.5 billion people in the world depend economically on bamboo, and the international trade in bamboo amounts to between
$5 and $10 billion. The growth of the global bamboo market was expected to reach up to $15-20 billion/year in 2017.
There are about 39 genera
of bamboo and more than 590 species in China with 5.38 million hectares of pure bamboo forest, which accounts for 25% of the bamboo
area in the world. With 5.38 million hectares of bamboo plantations and an annual increase of 100,000 hectares, China is leading
the world’s bamboo industry in its number of varieties, amount of bamboo reserves, as well as production output, said Zehui
Jiang, co-chair of INBAR’s board of trustees.
Zhejiang province is situated on the shore of the East China Sea and has about thirty genera and four
hundred varieties of bamboo. Bamboo products made there are sold all around the world, with an annual output of RMB 28 billion
($4.5 billion) in 2010. Zhejiang province has almost one fifth of the whole bamboo forest area in China. Moreover, approximately
69% of Lishui prefecture is covered with forest, giving it the nickname “The Foliage Ocean of Zhejiang.”
Bamboo Charcoal
Bamboo charcoal has been
documented in China as early as 1486 AD during the Ming Dynasty in China. Bamboo charcoal has traditionally been used as a heating
source, in replacement of wood, coal or wood charcoal. As a source of heat, bamboo charcoal has a calorific value approximately
half that of an equivalent weight of oil, and similar to the calorific value of wood. In addition to being an efficient source
of heat, bamboo charcoal is considered less polluting than wood charcoal, because it burns more cleanly due to a lower percentage
of volatile matter. Smoke and pollution in charcoal burning relate largely to moisture content and volatile matter. While careful
processing can control the moisture content, the ratio of volatile matter is affected by the source of charcoal. Traditional wood
charcoals may range between 5 – 40% volatile matter free of moisture, depending on the type of wood and the temperature
at which it is carbonized. Bamboo heating charcoal tends to be between 13 – 17% volatile matter free of moisture.
Because of the relatively
higher pollution levels in wood charcoal, it is estimated that the burning of wood fuel claims the lives of an estimated 2 million
people every year who inhale the smoke. Moreover, it takes between seven and ten tons of wood to produce one ton of wood charcoal,
compared with four tons of bamboo to produce one ton of bamboo charcoal.
In addition to use as a
heating source, bamboo charcoal has applications as an adsorbent, deodorizer, dehumidifier, purifier and electrical conductor.
Nonactivated bamboo charcoal is a versatile mineral matter with great porosity and consequently high absorption ability. Bamboo
charcoal’s porous surface area makes it an ideal air and water purifying agent, odor absorbent, additive, dehumidifier and
electromagnetic wave absorber (electromagnetic waves from computers, mobile telephones and other electronics can be conducted through
bamboo charcoal to dissipate their energy in the charcoal pores). While wood charcoal’s surface area may be as low as 20
m
2
/g, bamboo charcoal generally ranges from 200-600 m
2
/g, and our company’s EDLC carbon has achieved
2,200 m
2
/g.
While bamboo charcoal has
a high absorptive capacity after carbonization, it becomes even more effective after activation. Activated bamboo carbon is bamboo
charcoal that has been taken through an extra step greatly increasing its absorptive abilities. Activated bamboo charcoal can be
used for cleaning the environment, absorbing excess moisture and producing medicines.
The carbonization process
occurs in the absence of oxygen and produces a brown-black liquid containing more than 200 organic compounds known as bamboo vinegar,
or pyroligneous acid. Following sedimentation two distinct layers appear: a light yellow-brown liquid (clarified bamboo vinegar)
which can be refined to produce acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, carbinol and organic solvents, and a viscid oily liquid
(bamboo tar) containing large amounts of phenol substances. Bamboo vinegar is found in sanitary and health products as well as
a range of horticultural fertilizers and organic solutions.
EDLC Carbon
On December 14, 2017,
the Company entered into a sale agreement and related agreements (the “Agreements”) to transfer its EDLC carbon business
(including intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd. (the “Buyer”), a PRC
start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, our former CTO. After the completion of the transactions, the Company is expected
to focus its core business on the development of electric vehicle products and traditional charcoal products. Tantech’s
Board of Directors approved the terms of the sale based on a valuation report obtained by the parties and with knowledge that
Dr. Chen was the Company’s CTO during the transaction. However, as part of the transactions, Dr. Chen resigned from the
Company’s CTO position on December 31, 2017.
The decision of the
Company to divest its EDLC carbon business was made based on business considerations, including the fact that (1) the company’s
EDLC carbon business had been dependent on a very limited number of customers, (2) capital constraints on additional substantial
investment on developing EDLC Carbon products, (3) a challenging market condition and unfavorable political climate and (4) the
Company’s future transition focus of its traditional charcoal business to electric vehicle business.
Pursuant to the Agreements,
Tantech will sell and transfer to the Buyer all of its intellectual property rights related to EDLC carbon and the equipment for
R&D and production. The Buyer will pay Tantech a total purchase price of RMB 16 million. The payment will be made over 10 years.
Other key terms include the following: (a) the first payment of 28% of the total purchase price, or RMB 4.48 million, will be made
in 2017, consisting of RMB 3.2 million in cash advancement and RMB 1.28 million as payment for Tantech’s EDLC carbon related
IP rights; (b) the remaining balance of the purchase price will be paid evenly over the next nine years; (c) the second payment
of RMB 1.28 million of the purchase price and cash interests on the remaining cash receivable will be made in 2018; and (d) Tantech
will lease its office space, including offices and EDLC carbon R&D and production facilities, to the Buyer, subject to a concession
of a free leasehold for the first two years.
Electric Vehicles
Pursuant to the Purchase
Agreement executed on May 2, 2016, Supplemental Agreement I signed on December 22, 2016 and Supplemental Agreement II signed on
July 12, 2017, the Company acquired a 70% equity interest of Suzhou Yimao E-Motors Co., Ltd (“Suzhou E-Motors”). The
70% equity interest include a 19% equity interest owned directly by Hangzhou Jixi Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jixi”)
and a 51% equity interest owned through a series of contractual agreement with the owners of Hanzhou Wangbo Investment Management
Co., Ltd (“Wangbo”). Jixi is 100% owned by Shanghai Jiamu Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jiamu”), which
is, in turn, wholly owned by Euroasia International Capital (“Euroasia”), a 100% owned subsidiary of the Company.
These agreements include a Technical Consultation and Services Agreement, a Business Cooperation Agreement, an Equity Pledge Agreement,
a Share Disposal Agreement and a Voting Rights Proxy Agreement (collectively “VIE Agreements”). Pursuant to the above
VIE Agreements, Jiamu has the exclusive right to provide Wangbo consulting services related to business operations including technical
and management consulting services. All the above contractual agreements obligate Jiamu to absorb a majority of the risk of loss
from Wangbo’s activities and entitle Jiamu to receive a majority of their residual returns. In essence, Jiamu has gained
effective control over Wangbo. Therefore, the Company believes that Wangbo should be considered as a Variable Interest Entity
(“VIE”).
Suzhou E-Motors was
established in April 2011. It develops, manufactures, and sells specialty electric vehicles. The company also offers solar cells,
lithium-ion batteries, auto parts, and electric control systems in China. Its manufacturing facility, located in Zhangjiagang
City, Jiangsu Province is 15,000 square meters. Suzhou E-Motors has been approved by Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
of the People's Republic China (MIIT) as qualified to manufacture electric vehicles. It is also entitled to both central and local
government subsidies with any approved EV models. As of April 17, 2018, Suzhou E-Motors has ten EV models approved by MIIT.
Suzhou E-Motors has
to date developed a full range of electric buses and a variety of specialty vehicles. It has developed more than ten models of
electric buses, electric logistics cars, and specialty vehicles, such as high-speed brushless cleaning cars, electric cleaning
cars, special emergency vehicles, and funeral cars. The sale region for current products is mainly within Jiangsu Province where
the Suzhou E-Motors locates. In 2016, we sold 103 tourist buses, all in the Jiangsu Province. In 2017, we sold 100 various types
of vehicles, where 10 vehicles directly sold to Northern China, and over 90 vehicles were used in Northern China. Below are examples
of the specialty vehicles produced by Suzhou E-Motors.
Urban Sanitary Vehicles
. The Urban Sanitary Vehicles work with high
efficiencies with low operating expenses. They travel (clean) around 20~30 km/hr with fuel consumption rates approximately 3.33
km/liter. The vehicles are equipped with professional sanitary vehicle chasses, with front axle drives & front axle steering
to strengthen their operations’ stability and smoothness; the whole vehicle is made of strengthened steel plates and pipes,
making it more durable and anti-collusive.
Tourist Buses
. The Tourist Buses are 12-meter-long and
7-meter-long lithium-battery-based buses whose interior noise is less than 76 dBs and off vehicle acceleration noise is less than
82 dbs. Their fuel-saving rates are up to 50% and emissions rates are lowered 75%.
Below are the major
vehicle components we purchased for assembling the EV:
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Lithium-ion
battery packs
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Three-in-One
electric control systems
|
In general, the purchase on vehicle chassis, electric motors, lithium-ion battery pack and three-in-one
electric control system have covered two-thirds of EVs’ production cost. We purchase these components from four different
but well-established suppliers in China.
We currently rely on
local EV distributors to sell our EVs to end-users. The primary reason for such a sales channel is the dependence on local government
subsidy policies. In general, local governments only allow the locally-licensed EV distributors to sell EV vehicles, which are
entitled to EV road permits and subsidies.
Over the years, Suzhou E-Motors has had more than 20 EV core technologies and patents,
including nanotechnology for raw materials for power lithium electronics, group technology of power lithium electronics and battery
management technology.
Our Processing Workflow
We develop and manufacture
our bamboo charcoal products using the following processing workflow:
We develop and manufacture our electric
vehicles using the following processing workflow:
Our Products
Before acquisition
of Suzhou E-Motors, we primarily produced and sold three categories of products, all of which are produced from bamboo charcoal
and bamboo charcoal byproducts. Because of the lifespan and fast growth rate of bamboo, our products are considered environmentally
friendly. Moreover, our facilities have received ISO 14001:2004 certification, which reflects our focus on measuring and managing
our environmental impact.
BBQ Products
We sell pressed and
formed charcoal briquettes for use in grills, incense burners, and other applications for which the primary purpose of the charcoal
is burning for heat or fuel. These products are sold in China and internationally under the Algold brand.
Our charcoal briquettes
are processed from carbonized bamboo (as to our self-produced BBQ charcoal) and wood (as to our OEM BBQ charcoal) into charcoal
and pressed into shapes appropriate for our customers’ preferred use. These products include barbecue grill briquettes, disposable
all-in-one barbecue grills (including charcoal), and fuel for incense and tobacco burners.
We expect revenues generated
from our charcoal briquette products in oversea market will increase, however we expect total revenue in our charcoal briquette
will keep current relevant level in comparison to these other segments and in absolute terms.
Charcoal Doctor Products
Our primary consumer
brand is Charcoal Doctor (“
”, “Tan Boshi” or “Dr. Tan” in Chinese). In processing
our charcoal products, the primary byproducts are solid charcoal and charcoal vinegar. We make use of both the solid and liquid
byproducts in our Charcoal Doctor products.
Our Charcoal Doctor
brand products have been the primary source of our revenue over the last few years. Charcoal Doctor products are sold throughout
China and stocked by many supermarkets and specialty shops in Zhejiang Province and other provinces. We seek to protect and grow
our market share pricing our products aggressively, often as much as 10 – 15% below our competitors’ prices.
Our Charcoal Doctor gross profit margins average 26%, largely due to our industrialized and automated production processes. We
plan to expand product lines in the coming years to take advantage of the many uses of bamboo charcoal and vinegar. Charcoal Doctor
products can be categorized according to their physical state: liquid or solid:
Our solid charcoal
products are primarily used for purification and deodorization. These consumer products are made from dry distilled carbonized
bamboo, and have the ability to absorb harmful substances and foul odors from the air, including benzene, toluene, ammonia and
carbon tetrachloride. The primary ingredient of these products, activated charcoal, is an adsorbent. Our solid Charcoal Doctor
products generally fit within three categories: (1) charcoal bags, primarily used as air purifiers and humidifiers, (2) charcoal
deodorants and (3) toilet cleaning disks. Our primary Charcoal Doctor solid products include the following:
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Air purifiers and humidifiers
|
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·
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Automotive accessories for air purification
|
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Underfloor humidity control
|
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Mouse pads and wrist mats
|
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·
|
Charcoal toilet cleaner disks
|
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Liquid charcoal cleaner
|
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Decorative charcoal gifts
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Samples of the range
of solid Charcoal Doctor products are pictured below.
In addition to providing
solid charcoal, the carbonization process also results in a liquid byproduct called bamboo vinegar. Bamboo vinegar is used in disinfectants,
detergents, lotions, specialized soaps, toilet cleaners and fertilizers. We have also adapted our bamboo vinegar for use in a variety
of agricultural applications:
|
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Fruit, vegetable, and other plant fertilizers
|
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·
|
Soil conditioners and sweeteners
|
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·
|
Toilet cleaning liquid detergent and solid disks
|
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·
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Hand washing sanitation
|
Samples of the range
of liquid Charcoal Doctor products are pictured below.
We believe liquid products
are crucial to maintaining close ties with the agricultural industry, which we expect will be a key area for growth in the coming
years. We plan to expand in this area by adding production lines for daily health products, such as toilet-cleaning products, hand
washing products, as well as other everyday household items based on silver ion anti-bacterial nanotechnology.
We use this silver ion
nanotechnology for sterilization to improve the effectiveness of our sanitation and purification products. We purchase silver ion
nano powder from third parties to add into our products. We use our own formulas for the purification and sanitation products that
incorporate such powder.
We have developed two
kinds of products that use our silver ion nanotechnology. Our detergent products are based on bamboo vinegar and are supplemented
by the introduction of silver ion nano powder. These products are used for washing clothes and are in the trial stage. We began
trial sales of our silver nano detergent products in Yantai (Shangdong Province), Lishui (Zhejiang Province), Chengdu (Sichuan
Province) and Zhengzhou (Henan Province) in November 2012. We have concluded our trial sales in Lishui and Chengdu (and plan to
conclude sales in Yantai upon the exhaustion of current trial sales inventory), and our preliminary conclusions are that customers
liked the product but were less enthusiastic about the packaging. As a result, we adjusted our packaging in preparation for full-scale
sales. Given the investment required to improve brand awareness for our silver ion nano detergent, we will focus first on Zhengzhou
before beginning to plan either the expansion plan or the timeline for such expansion into other cities in China. At the same time
as we are selling such products under our Charcoal Doctor brand name in China, we are also in discussions to sell such products
to one distributor in Dubai, who would then re-brand the products for resale in local markets in Africa and the Middle East.
Our silver ion bamboo
charcoal bag products are used for odor absorption and air purification. We combine our charcoal powder products with silver ion
nano powder to achieve a charcoal bag that may be stored in a wider variety of locations. If our traditional bags are stored in
conditions that are too damp and warm, mold or mildew may grow. Our silver ion nano products are able to fight the growth of mold
and mildew, allowing them to be used in damp conditions without problem. We have begun to promote and sell limited numbers of such
bags in connection with our sales of traditional charcoal bags. We are promoting these bags in anticipation of adding such products
to our portfolio of products for sale in supermarkets and other stores. Our customer stores typically invite us to apply in June
or July to update the products we will offer for sale in their stores, and we are required to pay a fee for shelf space at such
time. Accordingly we plan to increase demand for our silver ion nano products in anticipation for adding them to the list of products
we sell this year. As we will make these silver ion nano charcoal bags available everywhere we offer our traditional charcoal bags,
we will leverage our existing sales and distribution channels to introduce these products to the market.
Raw Materials
Our primary raw material is bamboo charcoal. Each year, we purchase bamboo charcoal locally that has been
prepared to our specifications from between 15 and 20 suppliers located in and around Lishui. The majority of such purchases comes
from approximately four suppliers. In recent years, due to the rising awareness of environmental protection, the Zhejiang province
is taking a series of measures to improve water environment, which has led to a massive closure of small-sized bamboo charcoal
manufacturers. In addition, we are unable to purchase wood charcoal briquettes from our prior fiscal year’s second largest
supplier, Tahe Xingzhongda Carbon Co. in 2016, due to shortage of supply. However, we have taken actions to remedy such matters,
in particular to our primary raw material, bamboo charcoal. Therefore, we do not expect any shortage supply from bamboo charcoal
in coming years.
In addition to bamboo
charcoal, we also purchase bamboo charcoal powder for use in our EDLC carbon products. The suppliers for bamboo charcoal powder
are more limited in number, and the technical requirements of producing such powder are higher, than those for producing bamboo
charcoal. We rely on three suppliers for bamboo charcoal powder, one of which is also a major supplier of bamboo charcoal. Because
of the technical demands of producing bamboo charcoal powder for use in our EDLC carbon products, we expect that in the event of
unavailability, we would experience difficulty in replacing bamboo charcoal powder suppliers. While we expect that we could instruct
existing bamboo charcoal providers to produce bamboo charcoal powder, we could experience temporary lack of availability until
such suppliers are able to produce to our specifications.
We also purchase bamboo
vinegar for use in our liquid products. Our bamboo vinegar suppliers in some but not all cases are the same as our bamboo charcoal
suppliers. As the supply of bamboo vinegar is directly related to the supply of bamboo charcoal, we believe we have a steady supply
of bamboo vinegar given the prevalence of bamboo in the Lishui area. Accordingly, we do not anticipate any lack of availability
of bamboo vinegar for our liquid products.
We purchase wood charcoal
briquettes from a supplier in Heilongjiang province for use in our OEM BBQ charcoal products. As such products have low technical
requirements and are typically used for heating and cooking purposes, we have found that competing on price makes purchasing wood-based
charcoal for such purposes suit our customers’ requirements. Our primary source for wood charcoal briquettes, which we rebrand
under our Algold brand for sale in China, is Tahe Xingzhongda Carbon Co. in Daxing Anling, Heilongjiang province. In 2016, we were
unable to purchase raw material from Tahe Xingzhongda Carbon Co. It caused major decline in our domestic charcoal briquettes sale.
While we have adjusted our purchasing strategies to look for alternatives. However, due to tightening environmental control in
local authority, we expect the cost of wood charcoal briquettes would increase in the coming years.
In addition to our primary
raw materials, we also purchase small amounts of other raw materials, such as silver ion nano powder, fabric for charcoal bags,
packaging materials, and coconut charcoal. We do not anticipate any difficulty in replacing the suppliers of any of such minor
raw materials.
The prices of our primary
raw materials have not historically been volatile. We have generally experienced differences in price of less than 5% over the
course of a year for our primary raw materials.
Electric Vehicles
Suzhou E-Motors does
not produce major vehicles components directly from raw material. In general, Suzhou E-Motors purchases major parts directly from
four major suppliers. The suppliers for parts are shown below:
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Beijing National Energy Battery Technology Co., Ltd — Lithium-ion battery cells
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Dongfeng Xiangyang Travel Vehicle Co., Ltd — Vehicle chassis
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Suzhou Greencontrol Transmission Technology Co., Ltd — Electric motors
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Wuhan Hiconics Power Technology Co., Ltd — Three-in-One electric control systems
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Distribution Channels and Methods of
Competition
International Markets and Customers
Our bamboo charcoal
and bamboo charcoal byproducts are also sold directly or indirectly through distributors to international markets. Such exported
products include bamboo vinegar, bamboo charcoal and purification product. The majority of our export items are for non-energy
use. After pivoting our business focus in 2017, less than 1% of our direct sales are currently international. Including business
conducted with domestic distributors. However, we estimate that with respect to our household products that the percentage of goods
sold for export is approximately 5%, with the majority destined for Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.
Domestic Markets and Customers
Currently, our consumer products and specialty electric vehicles are sold via our distributors’
networks. In addition, we have a logistics center in Lishui and relationships with third-party warehousing companies in Hangzhou,
Jinan, Shanghai and Zhengzhou. Starting from 2016, we have been selling our products mainly through distributors instead of operating
logistics and warehousing facilities internally. In addition, we have significantly cut our sales to supermarket customers.
We are in the process
of expanding our product line to include toilet cleaning and kitchen cleaning products, among others. We believe there will be
a high demand for these types of products because of growing awareness of cleanliness and environmental protection, as well as
antibacterial products and disinfectants. In addition, we are in the process of restructuring our distribution network in an effort
to cut both overall time and costs relating to the sale cycle.
Geographic Distribution of Revenues
Beginning in 2017, our
charcoal products are sold via distributors instead of direct distribution to supermarkets and chain stores. As all of our sales
are completed in China, with title transferring to our customers in the country, we estimate most of our products are sold and
used in China. We have divested our EDLC line of business, which had contributed greatly to our international sales.
Electric Vehicles
Supported by the Chinese
government’s endorsement and driven by its focus on petroleum resource independence, environmental protection and the “Made
in China 2025” industrial upgrade, we believe the electric vehicle sector is the most promising segment in the Chinese auto
industry. China has become the largest new energy vehicle market in the world. According to a central government forecast, China’s
new energy vehicle sales are projected to grow to 2.1 million units in 2020, and its penetration is expected to reach 7% of vehicle
sales by 2020.
Our specialty vehicles
have a variety of uses in many areas. Each of these vehicles integrate the advanced technology of mechanical, electronic, hydraulic,
chemical, environmental protection and other fields into a special vehicle chassis to realize its specific function. Specialty
vehicles are widely used in the highway transportation, engineering construction, oil fields, mines, electricity, telecommunications,
postal, medical, environmental sanitation, agriculture, water conservancy, aviation, food, public security, fire protection, justice
and national defense construction markets.
In general, our EV product
faces two group of competitors: manufacturers of conventional fuel vehicles and EV manufactures. In terms of competitors specializing
in conventional fuel vehicles, many of them are much larger in terms of size, have greater manufacturing capabilities, and have
larger customer bases than we do. However, the conventional fuel vehicle manufacturers face many challenges, including environmental
pollution and energy scarcity, which provides great opportunities for the rapid development of the EV industry in China. In addition,
conventional fuel vehicle manufacturers have begun focusing their attention on developing and producing EV, and we expect that
we may face tougher competition in the future from these manufacturers.
There are many companies in China that engage in the research,
production and distribution of electric vehicles. Competition within the electric vehicle market is intense as we have to compete
with many domestic and global companies, established and new EV manufactures, some of which have greater brand recognition and
resources than we do. As a brand new player in the Chinese electric vehicle industry, we hope our focus on developing specialty
vehicles might give us advantages in a niche market, rather than facing strong competition from similar vehicles on the consumer
vehicle market.
Methods of Competition
The primary market for
our Charcoal Doctor line of products is household hygiene use. Our air purification, deodorizing, and other health promoting products
such as our charcoal pillow, cater to a niche but growing market of health-conscious customers. Customers in this sector have a
particular affinity to brands. Notwithstanding this loyalty, product-switching costs are low, so manufacturers must compete on
price.
We conducted a marketing
survey in Guangzhou in October 2013 for our charcoal bag products. According to the survey, we found that a decrease in package
weight of 10% or an increase in price of 5% resulted in a loss of sales of less than 1%, showing that the market could absorb minor
changes. By contrast, when the price increase reached 10% or the package weight decrease reached 15%, we saw that 30% of respondents
were willing to choose alternate brands or forego a purchase. We further found that for cleaning and purification products, 85%
of respondents cared about design attractiveness and approximately 65% made purchasing decisions based on attractiveness, causing
us to conclude that demand for our products is more heavily influenced by such products than by minor (but not major) economic
fluctuations.
Because the household
hygiene sector has enjoyed relatively strong growth in the last few years as a result of increases in disposable urban income and
an increased awareness of healthy lifestyle products, we have focused on growing our market share in this industry. In order to
do this, compete by pricing our products aggressively, often at a discount of 10 – 20% below our competitors. In
addition, we pride ourselves on providing a high quality product, so that our customers believe they have received value for the
price they pay.
With regard to household
carbonized bamboo products, the Charcoal Doctor brand is one of the largest and most famous. Our Charcoal Doctor brand name has
been recognized as a “China Well-known Brand” by the China Brand Strategy Management Association, and our products
have been recognized as a “Zhejiang Famous Forest Product” by the Zhejiang Famous Forest Product Affirmation Committee
and have been awarded “The Fifth China Yiwu International Forestry Product Expo Gold Award” by the Fifth China Yiwu
International Forestry Product Expo Committee. Moreover, the 2014 – 2018 China Bamboo Charcoal Products Market
Research and Corporate Strategy Analysis Report notes high brand recognition for Charcoal Doctor products in China.
The industry is geographically
concentrated in the South East of China in the provinces of Anhui, Zhejiang and Fujian where bamboo is more prominent, the bamboo
charcoal industry is also fragmented since it is subject to relatively low barriers of entry; low initial capital expenditure,
low technical requirements (excluding high end EDLC carbon compounds), highly homogenous products and few substitutes.
We face competition
from a number of companies operating in the vicinity. Many of these companies have similar profiles in terms of size, number of
employees and product ranges. One of the largest competitors is Zhejiang Maitanweng Ecology Development Co. Ltd., a local company
also from Zhejiang Province.
Zhejiang Maitanweng
has the largest franchise in the industry with a presence in over 100 cities in China. Like our Company, Zhejiang Maitanweng has
an extensive product portfolio of 200 household, automotive and health related bamboo charcoal-based products.
Jie Jie Gao Charcoal
is another company with a similar product portfolio. Also located in the Lishui vicinity, it also holds many awards, and its products
are stocked by Walmart, Hualian, Century Mart and other supermarkets like our products are. Jie Jie Gao is also one of the founding
members of INBAR — International Network for Bamboo and Rattan.
Due to product homogeneity
and low barriers to entry branding is an important differentiator in the industry. We are not aware of any foreign competitors
in this specific segment.
Awards and Recognition
The Company is fully
ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 certified and has received a number of national, provincial and local honors, awards and certifications
for its quality products and scientific research efforts:
2004
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Lishui High-Tech Product Company Certification for its Bamboo Vinegar
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2005
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Zhejiang Province High Tech Product Award for its Bamboo Vinegar
|
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Zhejiang Science and Technology Award (Third Class) for R&D of a continuous distillation process during the bamboo carbonization process
|
2006
|
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Zhejiang Science and Technology Award (Third Class) for its Liquid Bamboo Vinegar Products
|
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·
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Forestry Industry Award for Excellence in Forestry — Liquid Bamboo Vinegar Products (6
th
Anniversary)
|
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·
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Lishui City Forestry Industry Key Enterprise in Forestry Award
|
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·
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Liandu District High Tech Prize (Second Class) for R&D in Carbonization of Bamboo
|
2007
|
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Zhejiang New Forestry High Tech Company Industrialization Project Award for R&D efforts in super capacitors using bamboo charcoal
|
|
·
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Zhejiang Provincial-Level Key Enterprise in Forestry Award
|
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Lishui Science and Technology Award (First Class) for its Liquid Bamboo Vinegar Products
|
2008
|
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Official China High Tech Industry Enterprise Certificate (this award entitles the company to preferential enterprise income tax rates of 15% rather than 25%)
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2009
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National Torch Plan Project Certificate for Liquid Bamboo Products
|
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National Science and Technology Progress Award (Second Class) for Bamboo Carbonization
|
2011
|
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Zhejiang Science and Technology Award (Second Class) for its Activated Carbon Production Technology and Equipment Research
|
|
·
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Garden Unit Recognition for beautification and ecological efforts
|
2012
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Lishui City Recognition for Patent Grants
|
2013
|
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Zhejiang Province High Technology Enterprise Recognition
|
2014
|
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Lishui City Doctoral Working Station
|
Research and Development
We are committed to
researching and developing applications of bamboo charcoal and activated bamboo charcoal. We believe scientific and technological
innovations will help our Company achieve its long-term strategic objectives. R&D is an integral part of our operations and
the crux of its competitive advantage and differentiation strategy.
Our R&D team is
well educated and has far-reaching research capabilities. The R&D team has 3 dedicated researchers and analysts focusing on
Charcoal Doctor product development and applications. Quality control is an important aspect of the team’s work and ensuring
quality at every stage of the process has been a key driver in maintaining and developing brand value for the Company.
We regularly collaborate
with a number of top domestic universities and institutions for the advancement of bamboo charcoal research and process technology.
Current efforts and collaborations cover a wide range of areas including but not limited to: bamboo vinegar applications, bamboo
yield and quality improvements, bamboo’s natural characteristics, bamboo carbonization process optimization and engineering
initiatives to optimize and integrate production processes. It is through these collaborations that the company has managed to
secure important breakthroughs resulting in proprietary knowledge and patents. Research has been carried out in cooperation with
the following notable institutions:
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China National Bamboo Research and Development Center
|
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Zhejiang University of Agriculture and Forestry
|
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Zhejiang Academy of Forestry & Zhejiang Forestry Institute
|
Our Research Projects
We have led or participated
in numerous scientific projects that have led to important technological breakthroughs and advances. However in December 2017,
we have transferred all EDLC research project to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd, a PRC start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua
Chen, our former Chief Technology Officer.
Project Description
|
|
Time Period
|
|
Project Level
|
|
|
|
|
|
Technological innovations to achieve productive annual capacity of 3,000 metric tons of EDLC carbon
|
|
12/08 – 12/17
|
|
Central Government funded high-tech industrial project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bamboo carbonization technology R&D for tobacco product manufacturing
|
|
12/07 – 6/10
|
|
Zhejiang Provincial Government funded scientific agricultural project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Development of dry distillation of bamboo wood
|
|
6/07 – 5/09
|
|
Central government funded high-tech agricultural project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Technological innovations to be able to produce bamboo vinegar in a continuous process
|
|
4/06 – 4/08
|
|
Zhejiang Provincial Government funded scientific agricultural project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Technological innovations to achieve productive annual capacity of 300 metric tons of EDLC carbon
|
|
1/06 – 12/07
|
|
Central Government funded high-tech industrial project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bamboo vinegar spontaneous combustion automation production technology
|
|
8/04 – 12/06
|
|
Central Government funded high-tech agricultural project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bamboo R&D for lithium-ion battery anodes
|
|
8/04 – 2/06
|
|
Zhejiang Provincial Government funded scientific project
|
|
|
|
|
|
The research and demonstration for technology of agricultural waste carbonization and low ignition point molding charcoal fuel preparation
|
|
01/16-12/18
|
|
Zhejiang Provincial Government directly funded scientific project
|
|
|
|
|
|
Demonstration and promotion of green combustible carbon manufacturing technology using epicarps residue
|
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15/08- 12/17
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Central Government funded forestry technology promotion project
|
During the years ended December 31, 2017,
2016 and 2015, we spent $627,577, $136,626 and $1,084,867, respectively, on R&D.
In addition to the continuing R&D efforts in the Charcoal Doctor products, we will also focus on
the R&D of special new energy vehicles. In 2018, we expect to invest approximately $1,000,000 in R&D projects.
Our Patents
We rely on our technology
patents to protect our domestic business interests and ensure our position as a bamboo carbon technology pioneer in our industry.
We have placed a high priority on the management of our intellectual property. Some products that are material to our operating
results incorporate patented technology. Patented technology is critical to the continued success of our products. However, we
do not believe that our business, as a whole, is dependent on, or that its profitability would be materially affected by the revocation,
termination, expiration or infringement upon any particular patent. We currently hold six issued patents on charcoal products
and twenty-eight issued patents on electric vehicles as of April 30, 2018:
Patent Description
|
|
Holder
|
|
Patent Type
|
|
Approval
|
|
Expiration
|
|
Patent Number
|
Methods and equipment for combustion and distillation
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
|
Invention
|
|
Mar. 22,2006
|
|
Aug. 25,2024
|
|
ZL 200410075047.0
|
Biomass acaricide with gasified tar for organic pesticides
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
|
Invention
|
|
Nov. 18,2009
|
|
Jan. 24, 2026
|
|
ZL 200610049234.0
|
A door with air treatment function
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
|
Invention
|
|
June 15, 2011
|
|
Sep. 4, 2028
|
|
2008101204443
|
Methods for water and bamboo vinegar refining
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
|
Invention
|
|
Mar. 7, 2007
|
|
Apr. 15, 2023
|
|
200310116248.6
|
Supercapacitor electric car batteries
|
|
Tantech Energy
|
|
Utility Model
|
|
Dec. 31, 2008
|
|
Nov.
21, 2017
|
|
ZL 200720191201.X
|
Methods for destructive distillation and carbonization of bamboo and wood
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
|
Invention
|
|
May 17, 2006
|
|
April
12, 2023
|
|
ZL03122806.2
|
In addition, Suzhou E-Motors possesses
the following patents.
Patent Description
|
|
Holder
|
|
Patent Type
|
|
Approval
|
|
Expiration
|
|
Patent Number
|
Road Sweeper
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Patent for Invention
|
|
May 25, 2016
|
|
May 24, 2025
|
|
ZL201210311790.6
|
Rear body structure of new pure electric buses
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Model
|
|
June 11, 2012
|
|
June 10, 2021
|
|
ZL201220195153.2
|
Electric bus defroster
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
June 11, 2012
|
|
June 10, 2021
|
|
ZL201220195152.8
|
Axle connected hydraulic power steering pump assembly for electric cars
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
June 11, 2012
|
|
June 10, 2021
|
|
ZL201220195151.3
|
Integrated heat dissipation system for range-extended electric vehicle
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
June 11, 2012
|
|
June 10, 2021
|
|
ZL201220312584.2
|
Road cleaning and blowing device
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
Sep. 07, 2012
|
|
Sep 06, 2021
|
|
ZL201220433283.5
|
Multi-function diversion plate
|
|
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
Sep. 07, 2012
|
|
Sep 06, 2021
|
|
ZL201220433484.5
|
Wind blinds for blocking road cleaning
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
Sep. 07, 2012
|
|
Sep 06, 2021
|
|
ZL201220433284.X
|
Multi-function carbon dioxide welding machine moving underframe
|
|
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Utility Mode
|
|
April 20, 2012
|
|
April 19, 2021
|
|
ZL201220103680.6
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Fast battery box for pure electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 20, 2012
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April 19, 2021
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ZL201220103669.X
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An electric bus door
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 13, 2016
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April 12, 2025
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ZL201620307365.3
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An emergency brake device for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 13, 2016
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April 12, 2025
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ZL201620307444.4
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Battery pack mounting rack for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 13, 2016
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April 12, 2025
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ZL201620307484.9
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A battery compartment with high heat dissipation for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 14, 2016
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April 13, 2025
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ZL201620313236.5
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A brake device with monitoring function for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 14, 2016
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April 13, 2025
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ZL201620313255.8
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Power safety valve for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 14, 2016
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April 13, 2025
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ZL201620313387.0
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Brake auxiliary system of electric vehicle
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 14, 2016
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April 13, 2025
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ZL201620313368.8
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A kind of brake auxiliary system of electric vehicle
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 14, 2016
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April 13, 2025
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ZL201620313440.7
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A kind of emergency brake device for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 15, 2016
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April 14, 2025
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ZL201620315838.4
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A kind of speed limit brake device for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 15, 2016
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April 14, 2025
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ZL201620315845.4
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A kind of dual use auxiliary brake board for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 16, 2016
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April 15, 2025
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ZL201620316363.0
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A kind of installation device of hydraulic -power-assisted steering pump for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 15, 2016
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April 14, 2025
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ZL201620316401.2
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A kind of emergency auxiliary brake for electric buses
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 15, 2016
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April 14, 2025
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ZL201620316415.4
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Car Break Pad
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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April 1, 2017
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Mar 30, 2026
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ZL201720342785.X
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Angle mill wrench
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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June 4, 2009
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June 3, 2018
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ZL200920044592.1
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Battery connection device
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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June 4, 2009
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June 3, 2018
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ZL200920044586.6
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An electric motor cooled by a surround temperature controlled fan
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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June 4, 2009
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June 3, 2018
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ZL200920044588.5
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Electric soldering pen
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Suzhou E-Motors
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Utility Mode
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June 4, 2009
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June 3, 2018
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ZL200920044590.2
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Regulations
We are subject to a
variety of PRC and foreign laws, rules and regulations across a number of aspects of our business. This section summarizes the
principal PRC laws, rules and regulations relevant to our business and operations. Areas in which we are subject to laws, rules
and regulations outside of the PRC include intellectual property, competition, taxation, anti-money laundering and anti-corruption.
Investment Direction Regulations
On March 27, 2011, the National Development and Reform Commission (“NDRC”) issued the Guidance
Catalogue for Industrial Structure Adjustments (2011 edition), which was amended on February 16, 2013. This Guidance Catalogue
is an important basis for the government to guide investment direction, promote technology innovation and industrial upgrading.
Pursuant to relevant laws and regulations, in line with the promotion of energy conservation and green industry initiatives, the
approval authorities will strictly control energy-intensive, polluting and natural resources industries, such as projects in low-end,
capacity-redundant and over-expansion projects. Environmental protection departments and other departments with jurisdiction will
also review such projects for compliance with applicable criteria.
The Catalogue divides
industries into three categories: “encouraged,” “restricted,” and “eliminated” for investment.
Industries not listed in the Catalogue are generally deemed as falling into a fourth category, “permitted.”
According
to the Guidance Catalogue, development of bamboo byproducts (
)
like our products falls in the encouraged category while activated carbon production using raw material of woods or chopped roots
(
) (as opposed to our methods, which use neither)
falls in the eliminated category. As a result, government initiatives favor our carbon production methods over methods using wood
and wood products.
Given the Chinese government’s move toward more environmentally friendly initiatives, we believe
the bamboo industry, and in particular, the bamboo charcoal industry, are poised to grow, both for heating and cooking purposes
and also for charcoal byproduct uses for cleaning, purification and deodorization.
Intellectual Property Rights Regulations
The State Council and
the National Copyright Administration, or the NCAC, have promulgated various rules and regulations relating to the protection of
software in China. Under these rules and regulations, software owners, licensees and transferees may register their rights in software
with the NCAC or its local branches and obtain software copyright registration certificates. Although such registration is not
mandatory under PRC law, software owners, licensees and transferees are encouraged to go through the registration process to enjoy
the better protections afforded to registered software rights.
On March 1, 2009,
the MIIT promulgated the Administrative Measures on Software Products, or the Software Measures, which replaced the original Administrative
Measures on Software Measures promulgated by MIIT in October 2000, to regulate software products and promote the development
of the software industry in China. Pursuant to the Software Measures, software products which are developed in China and registered
with the local provincial government authorities in charge of the information industry and filed with MIIT may enjoy the relevant
encouragement policies. Software developers or producers may sell or license their registered software products independently or
through agents. Upon registration, the software products will be granted registration certificates. Each registration certificate
is valid for five years and may be renewed upon expiration.
The PRC Trademark Law,
adopted in 1982 and revised in 1993, 2001 and 2013 respectively, with its implementation rules adopted in 2002 and revised in 2014,
protects registered trademarks. The PRC Trademark Office of the State Administration for Industry and Commerce, or the SAIC, handles
trademark registrations and grants a protection term of ten years to registered trademarks.
The MIIT amended its
Administrative Measures on China Internet Domain Names in 2004. According to these measures, the MIIT is in charge of the overall
administration of domain names in China. The registration of domain names in PRC is on a “first-apply-first-registration”
basis. A domain name applicant will become the domain name holder upon the completion of the application procedure.
Regulations on Tax
Our business operations
are governed primarily by tax laws in the PRC. A description of the material tax consequences applicable to holders of our common
shares may be found in the section titled “Item 10. Additional Information.-E. Taxation.” For more information regarding
the impact of the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, see “Risk Factors — Under the Enterprise Income Tax Law,
we may be classified as a “Resident Enterprise” of China. Such classification will likely result in unfavorable tax
consequences to us and our non-PRC stockholders.”
Foreign Exchange Regulation
The principal regulations
governing foreign currency exchange in China are the Foreign Exchange Administration Regulations. Under the PRC foreign exchange
regulations, payments of current account items, such as profit distributions and trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions,
may be made in foreign currencies without prior approval from SAFE by complying with certain procedural requirements. By contrast,
approval from or registration with appropriate government authorities is required where RMB is to be converted into foreign currency
and remitted out of China to pay capital expenses such as the repayment of foreign currency-denominated loans or foreign currency
is to be remitted into China under the capital account, such as a capital increase or foreign currency loans to our PRC subsidiaries.
In August 2008, SAFE
issued the Circular on the Relevant Operating Issues Concerning the Improvement of the Administration of the Payment and Settlement
of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, or SAFE Circular 142, regulating the conversion by a foreign-invested
enterprise of foreign currency-registered capital into RMB by restricting how the converted RMB may be used. In addition, SAFE
promulgated Circular 45 on November 9, 2011 in order to clarify the application of SAFE Circular 142. Under SAFE Circular 142 and
Circular 45, the RMB capital converted from foreign currency registered capital of a foreign-invested enterprise may only be used
for purposes within the business scope approved by the applicable government authority and may not be used for equity investments
within the PRC. In addition, SAFE strengthened its oversight of the flow and use of the RMB capital converted from foreign currency
registered capital of foreign-invested enterprises. The use of such RMB capital may not be changed without SAFE’s approval,
and such RMB capital may not in any case be used to repay RMB loans if the proceeds of such loans have not been used.
In November 2012, SAFE
promulgated the Circular of Further Improving and Adjusting Foreign Exchange Administration Policies on Foreign Direct Investment,
which substantially amends and simplifies the current foreign exchange procedure. Pursuant to this circular, the opening of various
special purpose foreign exchange accounts, such as pre-establishment expenses accounts, foreign exchange capital accounts and guarantee
accounts, the reinvestment of RMB proceeds by foreign investors in the PRC, and remittance of foreign exchange profits and dividends
by a foreign-invested enterprise to its foreign shareholders no longer require the approval or verification of SAFE, and multiple
capital accounts for the same entity may be opened in different provinces, which was not possible previously. In addition, SAFE
promulgated the Circular on Printing and Distributing the Provisions on Foreign Exchange Administration over Domestic Direct Investment
by Foreign Investors and the Supporting Documents in May 2013, which specifies that the administration by SAFE or its local branches
over direct investment by foreign investors in the PRC shall be conducted by way of registration and banks shall process foreign
exchange business relating to the direct investment in the PRC based on the registration information provided by SAFE and its branches.
In July 2014, SAFE
decided to further reform the foreign exchange administration system in order to satisfy and facilitate the business and capital
operations of foreign invested enterprises, and issued the Circular on the Relevant Issues Concerning the Launch of Reforming Trial
of the Administration Model of the Settlement of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-Invested Enterprises in Certain Areas, or
Circular 36, on August 4, 2014. This circular suspends the application of Circular 142 in certain areas and allows
a foreign-invested enterprise registered in such areas to use the Renminbi capital converted from foreign currency registered capital
for equity investments within the PRC.
On March 30, 2015,
SAFE released the Notice on the Reform of the Management Method for the Settlement of Foreign Exchange Capital of Foreign-invested
Enterprises, or Circular 19, which has made certain adjustments to some regulatory requirements on the settlement of foreign
exchange capital of foreign-invested enterprises, lifted some foreign exchange restrictions under Circular 142, and annulled
Circular 142 and Circular 36. However, Circular 19 continues to, prohibit foreign-invested enterprises from, among
other things, using Renminbi fund converted from its foreign exchange capitals for expenditure beyond its business scope, providing
entrusted loans or repaying loans between non-financial enterprises.
On June 19, 2016,
SAFE issued the Circular of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Reforming and Regulating Policies on the Control over
Foreign Exchange Settlement of Capital Accounts, or Circular 16, which took effect on the same day. Compared to Circular 19,
Circular 16 not only provides that, in addition to foreign exchange capital, foreign debt funds and proceeds remitted from
foreign listings should also be subject to the discretional foreign exchange settlement, but also lifted the restriction, that
foreign exchange capital under the capital accounts and the corresponding Renminbi capital obtained from foreign exchange settlement
should not be used for repaying the inter-enterprise borrowings (including advances by the third party) or repaying the bank loans
in Renminbi that have been sub-lent to the third party.
SAFE Circular 37
In July 2014, SAFE issued
SAFE Circular 37, which supersedes SAFE Circular 75, and requires that PRC citizens or residents must register with the relevant
local SAFE branch before making capital contribution to any offshore entity directly established or indirectly controlled by that
PRC citizen or resident for the purpose of investment or financing and with onshore or offshore assets or equity interests legally
owned by that PRC citizen or resident. In addition, the SAFE registrations are required to be updated with local SAFE branch with
respect to that offshore special purpose company in connection with the change of its basic information, such as its company name,
business term, shareholding by individual PRC citizens or residents, merger, or division and, with respect to the individual PRC
citizens or residents in case of any increases or decreases of capital in that offshore special purpose company, or share transfers
or swaps by the individual PRC citizens or residents
Share Option Rules
Under the Administration
Measures on Individual Foreign Exchange Control issued by the PBOC on December 25, 2006, all foreign exchange matters involved
in employee share ownership plans and share option plans in which PRC citizens participate require approval from SAFE or its authorized
branch. In addition, under the Notices on Issues concerning the Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Individuals Participating
in Share Incentive Plans of Overseas Publicly-Listed Companies, or the Share Option Rules, issued by SAFE on February 15, 2012,
PRC residents who are granted shares or share options by companies listed on overseas stock exchanges under share incentive plans
are required to (i) register with SAFE or its local branches, (ii) retain a qualified PRC agent, which may be a PRC subsidiary
of the overseas listed company or another qualified institution selected by the PRC subsidiary, to conduct the SAFE registration
and other procedures with respect to the share incentive plans on behalf of the participants, and (iii) retain an overseas institution
to handle matters in connection with their exercise of share options, purchase and sale of shares or interests and funds transfers.
We will make efforts to comply with these requirements.
Regulation of Dividend Distribution
The principal laws,
rules and regulations governing dividend distribution by foreign-invested enterprises in the PRC are the Company Law of the PRC,
as amended, the Wholly Foreign-owned Enterprise Law and its implementation regulations and the Equity Joint Venture Law and its
implementation regulations. Under these laws, rules and regulations, foreign-invested enterprises may pay dividends only out of
their accumulated profit, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Both PRC domestic
companies and wholly-foreign owned PRC enterprises are required to set aside as general reserves at least 10% of their after-tax
profit, until the cumulative amount of such reserves reaches 50% of their registered capital. A PRC company is not permitted to
distribute any profits until any losses from prior fiscal years have been offset. Profits retained from prior fiscal years may
be distributed together with distributable profits from the current fiscal year.
Labor Laws and Social Insurance
Pursuant to the PRC
Labor Law and the PRC Labor Contract Law, employers must execute written labor contracts with full-time employees. All employers
must comply with local minimum wage standards. Violations of the PRC Labor Contract Law and the PRC Labor Law may result in the
imposition of fines and other administrative and criminal liability in the case of serious violations.
In addition, according
to the PRC Social Insurance Law, employers in China must provide employees with welfare schemes covering pension insurance, unemployment
insurance, maternity insurance, work-related injury insurance, medical insurance and housing funds.
C.
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Organizational structure
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Below is a chart representing
our current corporate structure:
In the above chart, we provide the English names of our corporate entities. As to THL and USCNHK, the
English names are the legal names of the entities. As to the other corporate entities, their legal names are in Chinese, and the
English translations are provided as courtesy translations.
Our registered agent
in the British Virgin Islands is Offshore Incorporations Limited. Our registered office and our registered agent’s office
in the British Virgin Islands are both located at P.O. Box 957, Offshore Incorporations Centre, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin
Islands.
THL
THL was incorporated
on November 9, 2010 under the BVI Companies Act, 2004 as a company limited by shares under the name “Sinoport Enterprises
Limited.” On April 15, 2013, Sinoport Enterprises Limited changed its name to “Tantech Holdings Ltd.” At the
time of its formation, THL was authorized to issue 50,000 common shares with a par value of $1.00 per share. On November 19, 2010,
THL issued 50,000 shares to its sole shareholder, Forasen Energy Co., Ltd, now named “Tanbsok Group Limited.”
On November 25, 2014,
in contemplation of the initial public offering of its common shares, THL effected a simultaneous (a) 1,000-for-1 split of its
common shares and (b) pro-rata redemption for par value and cancellation of 600 of such shares (30,000,000 in total). This transaction
was accomplished in this way for several business reasons: (1) we wanted to maintain $50,000 in aggregate share capital; (2) in
anticipation of the offering, we desired to increase the total number of common shares and reduce their per-share price to a level
consistent with the targeted offering price in the offering; and (3) prior to completion of the recapitalization, we had issued
all of the shares we were authorized to issue and needed to create authorized but unissued shares by repurchasing a portion of
such authorized and outstanding shares.
Upon completion of these
transactions, THL was authorized to issue 50,000,000 common shares, $0.001 per share, of which 20,000,000 are issued and outstanding.
At formation, THL had one director, Dehong Zhang, a citizen of the Philippines. On June 21, 2013, Yefang Zhang, a citizen of the
Philippines, was also appointed as a director of THL. In June 2014, THL appointed three independent directors, all citizens of
the PRC: Hongdao Qian, Shudong Wang and Wencai Pan.
On March 24, 2015, THL
completed an initial public offering of 1,600,000 common shares.
On March 1, 2016, THL
completed a private placement of 1,693,000 common shares.
USCNHK
USCNHK was formed on
October 17, 2008 under the Companies Ordinance (Chapter 32) of Hong Kong under the name “Raymond & O/B Raysucess Co.,
Limited.” On December 2, 2010, Raymond & O/B Raysucess Co., Limited changed its name to “USCNHK Group Limited.”
USCNHK’s authorized share capital is HKD 10,000, and the company has issued 10,000 shares, par value HKD 1.00 per share,
to its sole shareholder, THL. USCNHK has one director, Dehong Zhang, a citizen of the Philippines. On June 21, 2013, Yefang Zhang,
a citizen of the Philippines, was also appointed as a director of USCNHK.
Tantech Bamboo
Tantech Bamboo was formed
on October 23, 2002 under the name “Lishui Zhonglin High-Tech Co., Ltd.” (Chinese:
).
On December 31, 2005, Tantech Bamboo changed its name to “Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd.” On May 17,
2017, it changed its name to Lishui Tantech Energy Technology Co., Ltd., and on July 7, 2017 changed its name again to Tantech
Holdings (Lishui) Co., Ltd. Tantech Bamboo’s authorized share capital is RMB 80 million, of which Lishui Tantech owns 100%
interest. Tantech Bamboo has one director, Zhengyu Wang, who is a PRC citizen.
Tantech Charcoal
Tantech Charcoal was
formed on September 5, 2002. Tantech Charcoal’s authorized share capital is RMB 3.5 million, of which Tantech Bamboo owns
100%. Tantech Charcoal is organized as a limited liability company under PRC law. Tantech Charcoal has one director, Zhengyu Wang,
who is a PRC citizen.
Tantech Energy
Tantech Energy was
formed on September 24, 2008. Tantech Energy’s authorized share capital is RMB 30 million, of which Tantech Bamboo owns
100%. Tantech Energy is organized as a limited liability company under PRC law. Tantech Energy has one director, Zhengyu Wang,
who is a PRC citizen. On December 14, 2017, the Company entered into a sale agreement and related agreements to transfer its EDLC
carbon business (including intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd. (the “Buyer”),
a PRC start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, our former CTO.
Tantech Babiku
Tantech Babiku was formed
on October 20,2015. Tantech Babiku’s authorized share capital is RMB 10 million, of which Tantech Bamboo owns 100%. Tantech
Babiku is organized as a limited liability company under PRC law. Tantech Babiku has one director, Zhengyu Wang, who is a PRC citizen.
Zhejiang Zhongzhu
Zheijiang Zhongzhu was
formed on November 18, 2015 as Lishui Zhongzhu Charcoal Co., Ltd. It changed its name to Zhejiang Zhongzhu Tourism Development
Co., Ltd. on May 17, 2017. Zheijiang Zhongzhu’s authorized share capital is RMB 10 million, of which Tantech Bamboo owns
100%. Zheijiang Zhongzhu is organized as a limited liability company under PRC law. Zheijiang Zhongzhu has one director, Zhengyu
Wang, who is a PRC citizen.
Tanbo Tech.
Tanbo Tech. was formed
on December 8, 2015. Tanbo Tech.’s authorized share capital is RMB 10 million, of which Tantech Bamboo owns 100%. Tanbo Tech.
is organized as a limited liability company under PRC law. Tanbo Tech has one director, Zhengyu Wang, who is a PRC citizen.
Lishui Tantech
Lishui Tantech was
formed on April 7, 2016. Lishui Tantech’s authorized share capital is RMB 200 million, of which USCNHK owns 100%. Lishui
Tantech is organized as a limited liability company under PRC law. Lishui Tantech has one director, Zhengyu Wang, who is a PRC
citizen.
Suzhou E-Motors
On July 12, 2017, the
Company acquired 70% of the equity interest of Suzhou Yimao E-Motors Co., Ltd., (“Suzhou E-Motors”) from its original
shareholder. Suzhou E-Motors is a specialty electric vehicles and battery manufacturer based in Zhang Jia Gang City, Jiangsu Province,
China. After the acquisition, the Company owns a 100% equity interest of Euroasia International Capital Co., Ltd., a Hong Kong
limited company (“Euroasia”) and its wholly owned subsidiary Shanghai Jiamu Investment Management Co., Ltd, a Chinese
company (“Jiamu”), which further owns 100% equity interest of Hangzhou Jixi Investment Management Co., Ltd, a Chinese
company (“Jixi”). Jixi owns a 19% of equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors. In addition, Jiamu entered into a series of
contractual agreements with the owners of Hanzhou Wangbo Investment Management Co., Ltd, a Chinese company (“Wangbo”),
which owns 51% of the equity interests of Suzhou E-Motors. These agreements include a Technical Consultation and Services Agreement,
a Business Cooperation Agreement, an Equity Pledge Agreement, a Share Disposal Agreement and a Voting Rights Proxy Agreement (collectively,
the “VIE Agreements”).
Pursuant to the above
VIE Agreements, which are described in further detail below, Jiamu has the exclusive right to provide Wangbo consulting services
related to business operations including technical and management services. Taken together, the VIE Agreements obligate Jiamu
to absorb a majority of the risk of loss from Wangbo’s activities and entitle Jiamu to receive a majority of their residual
returns. In essence, Jiamu has gained effective control over Wangbo. Therefore, the Company believes that Wangbo should be considered
as a Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”) under the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”)
Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810 “Consolidation”. As a result, the Company ultimately controls
a 70% equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors and the accounts of Suzhou E-Motors are consolidated into those of the Company. Ouyatong,
Jiamu, , Jixi and Wangbo are all investment holding companies with no significant business activities. (collective “E-Motor
Holdings”).
Contractual Arrangements
We have chosen to use
contractual relationships in our corporate structure because direct investment by foreign-owned companies in the automobile industry
is restricted to own no more than 50% of equity.
The principal regulation
governing foreign ownership of businesses in the PRC is the Foreign Investment Industrial Guidance Catalogue, effective as of April
10, 2015 (the “Catalogue”). The Catalogue classifies various industries into three categories: encouraged, restricted
and prohibited. Tantech is engaged in business in industries where direct foreign investment over 50% is expressly prohibited:
automobile industry.
Due to the regulations
on foreign ownership of PRC businesses, Shanghai Jiamu Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jiamu”) and Hangzhou Wangbo
Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Wangbo”) have entered into a series of contractual arrangements, also known as VIE
Agreements. The variable interest entity, or VIE, agreements are designed to provide Jiamu with the power, rights and obligations
equivalent in all material respects to those it would possess as the sole equity holder of its controlled company, including absolute
control rights and the rights to the assets, property and revenue of Wangbo. Our PRC counsel has advised that the VIE agreements
constitute valid and binding obligations of the parties to such agreements and are enforceable and valid in accordance with the
laws of the PRC.
The VIE Agreements, entered
into as of July 13, 2017, are described below and consist of (a) Exclusive Purchase Agreement, (b) Equity Interest Pledge Agreement,
(c) Exclusive Management Consulting and Technology Service Agreement, (d) Voting Rights Proxy Agreement and (e) Power of Attorney.
As an overview, these agreements taken together are designed to allow Jiamu to manage the operations of Wangbo and to receive all
of the net income of Wangbo in return.
The following is a summary
of the common contractual arrangements that provide us with effective control of our VIE and that enable us to receive substantially
all of the economic benefits from its operations.
Exclusive Purchase Agreement
The Exclusive Purchase
Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) was entered into by and among (a) Jiamu, (b) Wangbo and (c), Mr. Zhengyu Wang
and Mr. Wangfeng Yan, as shareholders of Wangbo (the “Wangbo Shareholders”).
Pursuant to the Purchase
Agreement and as permitted by the applicable laws of the People’s Republic of China, the parties have agreed that, at the
exercise of such purchase option by Jiamu, (i) the Wangbo Shareholders will transfer all of their shares of Wangbo to Jiamu, or
(ii)Wangbo will transfer its assets to Jiamu. To conduct the abovementioned share transfer and assets transfer, Wangbo and the
Wangbo Shareholders irrevocably grant Jiamu an exclusive and unconditional asset purchase right and share purchase right, respectively.
Equity Interest Pledge Agreement
This Equity Interest Pledge
Agreement (the “Pledge Agreement”) was made and entered into by and among Jiamu as pledgee, the Wangbo shareholders
as pledgors and Wangbo. The Wangbo Shareholders pledged all current and future shares of Wangbo held by such Wangbo Shareholders
to Jiamu, in order to guarantee that Wangbo and/or the Wangbo Shareholders will fulfill their respective responsibilities and obligations,
and will ensure that Jiamu is able to obtain all rights and interests under the (a) Exclusive Management Consulting and Technology
Service Agreement and any supplemental agreements (if any) between Jiamu and Wangbo; (b) Exclusive Purchase Agreement and any supplemental
agreements (if any) among Jiamu, Wangbo and the Wangbo Shareholders; and (c) Shareholder Voting Right Authorization Agreement and
any supplemental agreements (if any) among Jiamu, Wangbo and the Wangbo Shareholders.
Exclusive Management Consulting and Technology
Service Agreement
This Exclusive Management
Consulting and Technology Service Agreement (the “Service Agreement”) was made and entered into by Jiamu and Wangbo.
Pursuant to terms and condition of the Service Agreement, Wangbo appointed Jiamu as its exclusive service provider providing comprehensive
management consulting, technical supporting, intellectual property license and other relevant services, including all services
within the primary business of Wangbo and decided necessary from time to time by Jiamu, including, (1) management consulting, (2)
technical support and (3) intellectual property. Wangbo agreed to accept consulting and services provided by Jiamu and not to acquire,
directly or indirectly, the same or similar consulting and/or services as set in the Service Agreement from any third party, except
with Jiamu’s prior written consent. Both parties agree that Jiamu can designate other parties to provide Wangbo with services
and/or support stated in the Service Agreement.
Voting Rights Proxy Agreement
This Voting Rights Proxy
Agreement (the “Proxy Agreement”) was made and entered by and among Jiamu as trustee, the Wangbo Shareholders as trustors
and Wangbo. Under the Proxy Agreement, the Wangbo Shareholders irrevocably authorized Jiamu or its designated person (such as director
or successor or liquidator of Jiamu) to solely exercise such Wangbo Shareholders’ voting rights in Wangbo under the law and
Memorandum and Articles of Association of Wangbo as representative, including, without limitation (a) convene, convoke and attend
shareholders’ meeting of Wangbo as representative of the Wangbo Shareholders; (b) submit proposals to Wangbo’s board
of directors as representative of the Wangbo Shareholders; (c) vote on any matters to be deliberated at the shareholders’
meeting of Wangbo; (d) sign on minutes of Wangbo’s shareholder meetings; (e) exercise other voting rights of shareholders
under Wangbo’s Memorandum and Articles of Association; (f) submit relevant documents to industrial and commercial registration
offices and other government authorities concerned in order to performance or guarantee this contract as representative of the
Wangbo Shareholders; and (g) sign share transfer agreements or other relevant documents, deal with official documents, registration,
records or other procedures in order to enable share transfer under the Purchase Agreement take effect.
Power of Attorney
The Power of Attorney
was made and entered into by Mr. Wangfeng Yan. Pursuant to the Power of Attorney, Mr. Yan designated Mr. Zhengyu Wang to exercise
Mr. Yan’s rights under the Proxy Agreement on behalf of Mr. Yan.
D.
|
Property, Plants and Equipment
|
There is no private
land ownership in China. Individuals and entities are permitted to acquire land use rights for specific purposes. We were granted
land use rights for our facilities in Lishui City, which extend until between 2051 and 2058. Following is a list of our properties:
Property
|
|
Land Use Expiration
|
|
Space
|
|
Ground
Floor
Area
|
No. 10 Cen Shan Road, Shuige Industrial Zone, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province 323000, People’s Republic of China (headquarters)
|
|
September 23, 2058
|
|
51,419 m
2
|
|
37,248 m
2
|
No. 508 Wen San Road, Room 1106, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
|
|
June 7, 2051
|
|
357 m
2
|
|
118 m
2
|
No. 888 Tianning Street, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
|
|
December 18, 2052
|
|
15,208 m
2
|
|
13,755 m
2
|
No. 4
Bridge,
204 Way, Yeyu Town, Zhangjiagang City, Jiangsu Province, People’s Republic of China
|
|
Lease through May 2019
|
|
26,580 m
2
|
|
26,580 m
2
|
Total
|
|
|
|
93,564 m
2
|
|
77,701 m
2
|
Currently, household
products are sold via our sales and distribution networks located in 17 cities (Changchun, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Fuzhou,
Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Harbin, Jinan, Lanzhou, Lishui, Shanghai, Shenyang, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Yantai, and Zhengzhou). We do not own
or lease locations in Shenyang, Tianjin, Yantai, Taiyuan, Zhengzhou, Changsha, Fuzhou or Lanzhou. In addition, we have logistics
centers in Lishui and relationships with third-party warehousing companies in Hangzhou, Jinan, Shanghai and Zhengzhou.
The following is a
list of our office, sales and distribution networks and logistic center locations.
Location
|
|
Lease Expiration
|
|
Area
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hangzhou
Fl 9, 459 Qianmo Rd, Binjiang, District, Hangzhou
City, Zhejiang Province
|
|
May 9, 2020
|
|
400 m
2
|
Lishui
No 888, Tianning St., Lianduqu, Lishui
|
|
Company-owned property
|
|
|
Zhangjiagang City (Suzhou E-Motors)
No.4 Bridge, 204 Way, Yeyu Town, Zhangjiagang
|
|
described above
|
|
26,580 m
2
|
Fixed assets at our
properties consist of office equipment at all of our locations and, at our Lishui properties, equipment for the carbonization
and processing of charcoal, both for our household goods products and for our EDLC carbon. This equipment includes furnaces, boilers,
mixers, kilns/ovens, jet mills, pulverizers, chemical analytic equipment, generators, briquette hydraulic powder molding machines,
carbon activation and pickling tanks, belt dryers, air compressors, bamboo vinegar refining equipment, container production lines,
hot acid/water washing equipment and automatic packing machines.
All of our real property and fixed assets are encumbered by secured loans from our creditors. Tantech
Bamboo granted the encumbrances on our properties at the Tianning Industrial Zone facility. Tantech Energy granted the encumbrances
on our land use right at our Shuige Industrial Zone facility. We have relocated our facilities from our facility on Tianning Street
to a new, larger facility on Cen Shan Road. Forasen Group currently occupies approximately 500 square meters of our Tianning Street
facility as its office. We have not historically charged Forasen Group for renting this office space. We have referred the matter
to our corporate governance committee to determine an appropriate rental fee for this office space. We will base the rental fee
on comparable rental spaces in the Lishui area. We are leaving 15,691 square meters of our Tianning Street property vacant and
available for rental. The costs to maintain the Tianning property (approximately $19,433 (RMB 121,000) per year), we have no guarantee
that we will be able to rent the remainder of the property.
None of our property
is affected by any environmental issues that may affect our use of the property. At present, our plans to further develop, expand
or improve these properties are funded through proceeds from our initial public offering and through our operating cash flows.
Suzhou Yimao E-Motors
Co., Ltd (“Suzhou E-Motors”) has a manufacturing facility, located in Zhangjiagang City, Jiangsu Province, of 26,580
square meters.
Images of Suzhou E-Motors’
facilities are presented below:
Images of our facilities
are presented below:
Productive Capacity
We currently produce
all of our charcoal products at our Shuige Industrial Zone facility in Lishui. Our facilities in Hangzhou and our Tianning facility
in Lishui are used for general office and administration purposes.
Shuige Industrial Zone facility
The following is a map
of our Shuige Industrial Zone facility, which displays the building numbers referred to in the below tables describing the productive
uses of such facility.
Non-production properties:
Functional uses and location
|
|
Area
(m
2
)
|
|
|
Actual
used
area (m
2
)
|
|
|
Reserved
area (m
2
)
|
|
|
Space
utilization
|
|
|
Reserved purpose
|
|
Office administration, training, product display and so on (First through fourth floors of building No. 1)
|
|
|
4,478
|
|
|
|
3,359
|
|
|
|
1,120
|
|
|
|
75
|
%
|
|
Additional offices
|
|
Research and development center
(Fifth and sixth floors of building No. 1 and building 11)
|
|
|
4,027
|
|
|
|
1,120
|
|
|
|
2,907
|
|
|
|
27.8
|
%
|
|
New product
development team,
EDLC research and
development center
|
|
Employee dorms (Building No. 9, 10)
|
|
|
7,182
|
|
|
|
7,182
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
100
|
%
|
|
N/A
|
|
Other (boiler room, guard room, waste water processing and so on)
(Building No. 13 through 16)
|
|
|
218
|
|
|
|
218
|
|
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
100
|
%
|
|
N/A
|
|
We currently reserve
4,478 m
2
for office administration, training and product display purposes, of which 3,359 m
2
are
currently used. We have reserved 1,120 m
2
for additional office space.
Our research and development
center consists of 4,027 m
2
, of which we use 1,120 m
2
at present. We plan to use the additional
space on the sixth floor of our Shuige Industrial Zone facility for our new product development team when our needs exceed the
space provided on the fifth floor, but we do not have a specific time or plan in place for expanding such team. Until recently
when we decided to divest our EDLC business, we had planned to use the balance of space devoted to this purpose to implement an
EDLC research and development center.
We use 218 m
2
for general facility purposes, including our boiler room, guard room and other similar purposes.
Our employee dorms cover
7,182 m
2
, all of which is in use.
Production properties:
Functional uses and
location
|
|
Area
(m
2
)
|
|
|
Actual
used
area
(m
2
)
|
|
|
Reserved
area
(m
2
)
|
|
|
Space
utilization
|
|
|
Current
capacity
(metric
tons)
(1)
|
|
|
2013 actual
productivity
(metric
tons)
|
|
|
Capacity utilization
|
|
|
Reserved
purpose
|
Barbecue charcoal production line
(Building No. 2)
|
|
|
11,854
|
|
|
|
5,927
|
|
|
|
5,927
|
|
|
|
50
|
%
|
|
|
1,000
|
|
|
|
309
|
|
|
|
30.9
|
%
|
|
Installation of equipment for production expansion
|
Solid deodorant and purification product production
line (Building No. 3, half of building No. 4)
|
|
|
10,984
|
|
|
|
10,984
|
|
|
|
0
|
|
|
|
100
|
%
|
|
|
20,000
|
|
|
|
20,949
|
|
|
|
104.7
|
%(2)
|
|
N/A
|
Liquid household hygiene product and bamboo
vinegar product production line (Half of building No. 4)
|
|
|
3,440
|
|
|
|
1,720
|
|
|
|
1,720
|
|
|
|
50
|
%
|
|
|
5,000
|
|
|
|
4,091
|
|
|
|
82.0
|
%
|
|
Installation of a new production line
|
EDLC carbon production line (Building No. 5,
6, 7, 8, 9)
|
|
|
9,098
|
|
|
|
3,473
|
|
|
|
5,625
|
|
|
|
38.2
|
%
|
|
|
500
|
|
|
|
304
|
|
|
|
60.8
|
%
|
|
Build a production line for 1,000 additional tons of EDLC carbon
capacity
|
|
(1)
|
All of our production capacity
rates assume 250 working days per year, 8 hours per day. We believe we can increase the number of days worked per year or number
of hours worked per day to increase our production capacities if we choose to do so in the future.
|
|
(2)
|
We exceeded 100% utilization
rate by operating this production line in excess of the assumed capacity rates.
|
We have reserved 11,854
m
2
of our Shuige Industrial Zone facility for our barbecue charcoal production line, and currently use 5,927
m
2
of this area. The remaining 5,927 m
2
is reserved for a future production line. In our existing
barbecue charcoal production line, we have a current capacity of approximately 1,000 tons per year, and we produced 340 tons of
BBQ charcoal in 2015, a capacity utilization rate of 34%.
We have reserved 10,984
m
2
of our Shuige Industrial Zone facility for our solid deodorant and purification product production line. We
currently use all of the space. In our existing Charcoal Doctor solid product production line, we have a current capacity of approximately
20,000 tons per year, and we produced 21,500 tons of Charcoal Doctor solid product in 2015, a capacity utilization rate of 107.5%.
We exceeded 100% utilization by operating this production line in excess of the assumed capacity rates. If we choose to increase
our production capacity in the future, we would need to replace existing production lines with more efficient lines or to expand
our space, as we have not reserved space for additional production lines.
We have reserved 3,440
m
2
of our Shuige Industrial Zone facility for our liquid household hygiene product and bamboo vinegar product production
line, of which we currently use 1,720 m
2
. The remaining 1,720 m
2
is reserved for installation of
a new production line. In the existing production line, we have a current capacity of approximately 5 million units per year,
and we produced 3.6 million units of our liquid products in 2015, a capacity utilization rate of 72%.
Until our recent decision
to divest our EDLC business, we had reserved 9,098 m
2
of our Shuige Industrial Zone facility for an EDLC carbon
production line, of which we currently use 3,473 m
2
. The remaining 5,625 m
2
was reserved for building
another production line to increase capacity by 1,000 tons of EDLC carbon per year. On December 14, 2017, the Company entered
into a sale agreement and related agreements to transfer its EDLC carbon business (including intellectual property rights and
equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd. (the “Buyer”), a PRC start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen,
our former CTO. We expect to lease these facilities to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd., the buyer of our EDLC line of business.
|
Item 4A.
|
Unresolved Staff Comments
|
None.
|
Item 5.
|
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
|
The following discussion
and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial
statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F. In addition to historical consolidated financial
information, the following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs. Our actual
results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute
to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F, particularly in “Risk
Factors.”
A. Operating Results
Overview of Company
Traditionally, we are
a specialized manufacturer of bamboo charcoal based products with primary business focus in consumer products and low emission
BBQ charcoal. We conduct our operations in China through our wholly owned subsidiary, USCNHK in Hong Kong and its majority-owned
Chinese subsidiary, Tantech Bamboo. Tantech Bamboo is engaged in the production and distribution of consumer products. Through
Tantech Bamboo’s wholly-owned Chinese subsidiary, Tantech Charcoal, we conduct trading business, including the export of
charcoal products; and through Tantech Bamboo’s wholly-owned Chinese subsidiary, Tantech Babiku, we manufacture low emission
BBQ charcoal. Our subsidiary Tantech Energy was engaged in the manufacturing of Electric Double-Layer Capacitor (“EDLC”)
carbon. On December 14, 2017, the Company entered into a sale agreement and related agreements to transfer its EDLC carbon business
(including intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd. (the “Buyer”), a PRC start-up
company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, our former CTO.
In the fourth quarter
of 2015, we registered two Chinese subsidiary companies, Lishui Zhongzhu Charcoal Co., Ltd. (“Lishui Zhongzhu” or
“Zhongzhu”) and Hangzhou Tanbo Tech Co., Ltd. (“Tanbo Tech” or “Tanbo”). Lishui Zhongzhu is
engaged in the production and sales of active charcoal and other products. Tanbo Tech explores business opportunities outside
Lishui area.
On July 12, 2017, the
Company acquired 70% of the equity interest of Suzhou Yimao E-Motors Co., Ltd., (“Suzhou E-Motors”) from its original
shareholder. Suzhou E-Motors is a specialty electric vehicles and battery manufacturer based in Zhang Jia Gang City, Jiangsu Province,
China. After the acquisition, the Company owns a 100% equity interest of Euroasia International Capital Co., Ltd., a Hong Kong
limited company (“Euroasia”) and its wholly owned subsidiary Shanghai Jiamu Investment Management Co., Ltd, a Chinese
company (“Jiamu”), which further owns 100% equity interest of Hangzhou Jixi Investment Management Co., Ltd, a Chinese
company (“Jixi”). Jixi owns a 19% of equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors. In addition, Jiamu entered into a series
of contractual agreements with the owners of Hanzhou Wangbo Investment Management Co., Ltd, a Chinese company (“Wangbo”),
which owns 51% of the equity interests of Suzhou E-Motors. These agreements include a Technical Consultation and Services Agreement,
a Business Cooperation Agreement, an Equity Pledge Agreement, a Share Disposal Agreement and a Voting Rights Proxy Agreement (collectively,
the “VIE Agreements”).
Pursuant to the above VIE Agreements, which are described in further detail below, Jiamu has
the exclusive right to provide Wangbo consulting services related to business operations including technical and management services.
Taken together, the VIE Agreements obligate Jiamu to absorb a majority of the risk of loss from Wangbo’s activities and
entitle Jiamu to receive a majority of their residual returns. In essence, Jiamu has gained effective control over Wangbo. Therefore,
the Company believes that Wangbo should be considered as a Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”) under the Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810 “Consolidation”.
As a result, the Company ultimately controls a 70% equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors and the accounts of Suzhou E-Motors are
consolidated into those of the Company. Ouyatong, Jiamu, Jixi and Wangbo are all investment holding companies with no significant
business activities (collective “E-Motor Holdings”).
On December 14, 2017,
the Company and ZheJiang Apeikesi Energy Technology Co., Ltd (the “Buyer”) signed a purchase agreement (the “Agreement”),
pursuant to which, the Buyer agreed to acquire certain assets and all copyrights and technology know-how related to Electric Double-Layer
Capacitor (“EDLC”) carbon business from the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Tantech Energy, for a total price
of $2,459,200 (RMB 16 million) (the “Purchase Price”). The purchase price is payable in ten years with initial payment
of approximately $0.7 million (RMB 4.48 million) due in fiscal 2017. The remaining purchase price shall be paid in nine equal installments
in the following nine years. The Buyer is required to pay annual interest on the remaining purchase price at the PRC prime borrowing
rate. As of December 14, 2017, the book value of net assets underlying the transaction was $432,929 and the gain from the sales
transaction was approximately $1,948,490, which was included in the net income from discontinued operation in fiscal 2017. As of
December 31, 2017, the aggregateaccounts receivable from Purchaser was $1,770,624, of which $1,502,518 was included in the accounts
receivable –long term in the consolidated balance sheets. In connection with the Agreement, Buyer and the Company also signed
a lease agreement, pursuant to which, the Purchaser agreed to lease the existing production facility from Tantech Energy for five
years. The rents for the first two years are free. The annual rent income for the third, fourth and fifth year is $50,750, $58,000
and $65,250, respectively.
As a result of the Agreement,
based on the Company’s management accounts, certain assets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the revenue and expenses
for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 have been reclassified as discontinued operations to retrospectively reflect
this transaction.
As of December 31, 2017,
the Company had three reporting segments including consumer product segment, trading segment and electric vehicle segment.
Our consumer products
include purification and deodorization products, cleaning products and barbecue charcoals designed for domestic market. Purification
and deodorization products and cleaning products are sold under the brand name “Charcoal Doctor”. Purification and
deodorization products include air purification products, deodorizer and bamboo vinegar. Cleaning products include kitchen and
bathroom cleaning products, personal care products and liquid detergents. Consumer products accounted for 81.6%, 83.9% and 73.5%
of the total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
The largest category
of our consumer products is purification and deodorization products. Made from dry distilled carbonized bamboo, our purification
and deodorization products have the ability to absorb harmful substances and air-borne odors, including benzene, formaldehyde,
ammonia and carbon tetrachloride. These products also come in many shapes and varieties for a multitude of purposes including pillows,
cushion insoles, wrist pads, clothes hangers and other products. Bamboo vinegar is an additive that can be used in food processing,
medical and hygiene products and fertilizer. Although it currently only accounts for a small portion of our revenue, bamboo vinegar
products are crucial for us to maintain close ties with the agricultural industry which we believe will be a key area for growth
in the coming years. Cleaning products, including disinfectants, detergents, lotions, specialized soaps and toilet cleaners are
relatively new in our consumer products but provide us another opportunity for growth. Purchased from third parties and sold through
our distribution channel, barbecue charcoals designed for China’s domestic market have also been a key source of revenue
for us in recent years.
As of April 2018, Charcoal
Doctor products are stocked in over 1,800 supermarkets, department stores, specialty and convenience stores throughout China. We
also own and operate two Charcoal Doctor branded retail stores in Lishui. We plan to expand product lines in the coming years to
take advantage of the various uses of bamboo charcoal and bamboo vinegar.
Our trading business
was mainly related to the export of charcoal products. We established Tantech Charcoal as a trading company for the export of our
charcoal products in order to avoid mixing our export sales and our production businesses. Production businesses that are combined
with export businesses typically have a higher tax rate than we pay by separating these businesses. By separating the trading business
from the production business, we enjoy tax incentives and more streamlined operations. Because of our experience in trading charcoal
and in order to improve our cash flows, we also engaged in rubber trading through this entity until September 2013. The profit
of our trading business has been relatively low, and in September 2013, we started phrasing out our trades of rubber. While we
may have sporadic trades of rubber in the future and while we are still authorized to engage in rubber trading, it will not be
a focus of our Company.
We are in the process to transform our business to specialty electric vehicles (EVs) market. However,
we expect our sales of consumer products will stabilize in the coming years with the brand awareness and establishment for our
bamboo charcoal products. Our acquisition of Suzhou E-Motors completed in the second quarter of 2017 and we will focus on developing
and selling specialty EVs. If our expansions into new businesses are not successful, our future results of operations and growth
prospects may be materially and adversely affected. We are otherwise unaware of any specific known trends, uncertainties or events
that are reasonably likely to have a material effect on our sales or revenue of consumer products. Our revenue from our trading
segment is unlikely to increase significantly in future years. If we cannot increase our consumer products and Electronic vehicle
revenues or find new business opportunities to continue the growth, our total revenue may be decreasing.
Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
Government Policy May Impact our Business
and Operating Results
We have not seen any
impact of unfavorable government policy upon our business in recent years. However, our business and operating results will be
affected by China’s overall economic growth and government policy. Unfavorable changes in government policies could affect
the demand for our products and could materially and adversely affect our results of operations. Our bamboo charcoal based consumer
products are currently not subject to the government restrictions, however, any future changes in the government’s policy
upon bamboo charcoal industry may have a negative effect on the supply of our raw materials.
Price Inelasticity of Raw Materials
May Reduce Our Profit
As a specialized manufacturer
of bamboo charcoal based products, we rely on the continuous and stable supply of bamboo charcoal to ensure our operation and expansion.
Although bamboo (and as a result bamboo charcoal) is a renewable supply, price inelasticity at any given time may increase the
likelihood of bidding wars, resulting in an increase in raw material prices and thus reduce our profit. In addition, as we are
competing based upon low price, we will risk losing customers by increasing our selling prices.
Competition in Consumer Product
Our products face competition
from other producers. In our consumer product segment, we face competition from a number of companies that have similar product
portfolios. Many of such competitors’ products are not bamboo-based; instead, we compete based on our products’ functional
use. Many such competitors are able to provide functionally similar products without relying on bamboo or bamboo charcoal components.
Although our Charcoal
Doctor brand is one of the largest and most famous in the charcoal bag and bamboo charcoal market, the bamboo charcoal based consumer
product industry is relatively fragmented and subject to relatively low barriers of entry.
Our Charcoal Doctor
air purification products compete with products from charcoal-based competitors such as Zhejiang Maitanweng Ecological Development
Co., Ltd., Zhejiang Jiejiegao Charcoal Industry Co., Ltd., and Quzhou Modern Charcoal Industry, Co., Ltd.
Our Charcoal Doctor
toilet cleaner competitors include non-charcoal-based competitors such as SC Johnson & Son (Shanghai) Inc. (which makes the
Mr. Muscle brand in China), Blue Moon Chinese Co., Ltd., Shanghai White Cat Group Ltd., Beijing Green Umbrella Chemical Co., Ltd.
and Weilai (Guangzhou) Consumer products Co., Ltd.
Our BBQ charcoals also
face competition from similar products that are not made of bamboo-based charcoal. For example, our Algold grand shisha charcoal
competes with Shaxian Jinlu Charcoal Factory. While our shisha charcoal is a popular bamboo-charcoal based product, the competitor
product is more popular but not bamboo-charcoal based. Our other key international competitors in this area include Haiwan International
Trading Co., Ltd., Nanxiong Guizhu Charcoal Co., Ltd. and Shaoguan Libao Daily Sundry Co., Ltd. In addition to these companies,
we compete domestically with Fujian Zhuhai Charcoal Co., Ltd., Jiangshan Green Charcoal Co., Ltd., Pujiang Fuli Bamboo & Wood
Co., Ltd. and Sanhe Senyuan Charcoal Co., Ltd.
Some of our Products are Subject to
Cyclical Sales.
Our BBQ charcoal products
and solid bamboo charcoal products are subject to cyclical sales. We typically see our highest sales of BBQ charcoal products in
April and May and then again between August and October. The first peak marks our customers’ preparation for the summer outdoor
barbeque season, and the second peak is related to their purchase of our BBQ charcoal products for heating and cooking indoors
in the colder months.
The peak season for
our solid bamboo charcoal products is between October and November, and sales are lowest in February and March as a result of Chinese
New Year, as consumers tend to purchase such products prior to the holiday, rather than after.
While we have seen higher
sales near the end of the year for our liquid products, we believe our sales volume for such products is too low to consider such
fluctuations cyclical. As such products are primarily for export, demand for our liquid products is most likely to be affected
by seasonal and other fluctuations in the purchasing country rather than in China.
Notwithstanding the
effects of seasonality, we believe the key drivers for us to maintain a competitive position in the market and positive financial
performance continue to be brand recognition, product innovation and the application of new technology.
Results of Operation
The following table
summarizes the selected results of our operation during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and provides
information regarding the dollar and percentage increase or (decrease) during such years.
(All amounts, other than percentages, in
thousands of U.S. dollars)
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Statement of Operations Data:
|
|
Dollars in
thousands
|
|
|
As a
percentage
of sales
revenue
|
|
|
Dollars in
thousands
|
|
|
As a
percentage
of sales
revenue
|
|
|
Dollar ($)
Increase
(Decrease)
|
|
|
Percentage
Increase
(Decrease)
|
|
Revenues
|
|
$
|
43,084
|
|
|
|
100
|
%
|
|
$
|
40,533
|
|
|
|
100.0
|
%
|
|
$
|
2,551
|
|
|
|
6.3
|
%
|
Cost of revenues
|
|
|
32,406
|
|
|
|
75.2
|
%
|
|
|
27,476
|
|
|
|
67.8
|
%
|
|
|
4,930
|
|
|
|
17.9
|
%
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
10,678
|
|
|
|
24.8
|
%
|
|
|
13,057
|
|
|
|
32.2
|
%
|
|
|
(2,379
|
)
|
|
|
(18.2
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Selling expenses
|
|
|
790
|
|
|
|
1.8
|
%
|
|
|
690
|
|
|
|
1.7
|
%
|
|
|
100
|
|
|
|
14.5
|
%
|
General and administrative expenses
|
|
|
4,653
|
|
|
|
10.8
|
%
|
|
|
3,623
|
|
|
|
8.9
|
%
|
|
|
1,030
|
|
|
|
28.4
|
%
|
Research and development expenses
|
|
|
628
|
|
|
|
1.5
|
%
|
|
|
137
|
|
|
|
0.3
|
%
|
|
|
491
|
|
|
|
358.4
|
%
|
Total operating expenses
|
|
|
6,071
|
|
|
|
14.1
|
%
|
|
|
4,450
|
|
|
|
11.0
|
%
|
|
|
1,621
|
|
|
|
36.4
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from operations
|
|
|
4,607
|
|
|
|
10.7
|
%
|
|
|
8,607
|
|
|
|
21.2
|
%
|
|
|
(4,000
|
)
|
|
|
(46.5
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other income (expenses)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income
|
|
|
19
|
|
|
|
-
|
%
|
|
|
0.5
|
|
|
|
0
|
%
|
|
|
19
|
|
|
|
3700
|
%
|
Interest expense
|
|
|
(551
|
)
|
|
|
(1.3
|
)%
|
|
|
(471
|
)
|
|
|
(1.2
|
)%
|
|
|
(80
|
)
|
|
|
17
|
%
|
Government subsidy income
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
0.1
|
%
|
|
|
(53
|
)
|
|
|
(100
|
)%
|
Other income
|
|
|
436
|
|
|
|
1.0
|
%
|
|
|
99
|
|
|
|
1.1
|
%
|
|
|
337
|
|
|
|
340.4
|
%
|
Total other income (expense)
|
|
|
(96
|
)
|
|
|
(0.2
|
)%
|
|
|
(319
|
)
|
|
|
(0.8
|
)%
|
|
|
223
|
|
|
|
(69.9
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income before income taxes
|
|
|
4,511
|
|
|
|
10.5
|
%
|
|
|
8,288
|
|
|
|
20.4
|
%
|
|
|
(3,777
|
)
|
|
|
(45.6
|
)%
|
Provision for income taxes
|
|
|
1,528
|
|
|
|
3.5
|
%
|
|
|
1,367
|
|
|
|
3.4
|
%
|
|
|
161
|
|
|
|
11.8
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income from continuing operations
|
|
|
2,983
|
|
|
|
6.9
|
%
|
|
|
6,921
|
|
|
|
17.1
|
%
|
|
|
(3,938
|
)
|
|
|
(56.9
|
)%
|
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
|
30
|
|
|
|
0.1
|
%
|
|
|
(2,313
|
)
|
|
|
(5.7
|
)%
|
|
|
2,343
|
|
|
|
(101.3
|
)%
|
Net income
|
|
|
3,013
|
|
|
|
7.0
|
%
|
|
|
4,608
|
|
|
|
11.4
|
%
|
|
|
(1,595
|
)
|
|
|
(34.6
|
)%
|
Net income attributable to common stockholders of Tantech Holding Inc.
|
|
$
|
3,767
|
|
|
|
8.7
|
%
|
|
$
|
4,299
|
|
|
|
10.6
|
%
|
|
$
|
(532
|
)
|
|
|
(12.4
|
)%
|
The following table summarizes the results
of our operation during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and provides information regarding the
dollar and percentage increase or (decrease) during such years.
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Statement of Operations Data:
|
|
Dollars in
thousands
|
|
|
As a
percentage
of sales
revenue
|
|
|
Dollars in
thousands
|
|
|
As a
percentage of
sales
revenue
|
|
|
Dollar ($)
Increase
(Decrease)
|
|
|
Percentage
Increase
(Decrease)
|
|
Revenues
|
|
$
|
40,533
|
|
|
|
100.0
|
%
|
|
$
|
46,815
|
|
|
|
100.0
|
%
|
|
$
|
(6,282
|
)
|
|
|
(13.4
|
)%
|
Cost of revenues
|
|
|
27,476
|
|
|
|
67.8
|
%
|
|
|
32,083
|
|
|
|
68.5
|
%
|
|
|
(4,607
|
)
|
|
|
(14.4
|
)%
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
13,057
|
|
|
|
32.2
|
%
|
|
|
14,732
|
|
|
|
31.5
|
%
|
|
|
(1,675
|
)
|
|
|
(11.4
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating expenses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Selling expenses
|
|
|
690
|
|
|
|
1.7
|
%
|
|
|
857
|
|
|
|
1.8
|
%
|
|
|
(167
|
)
|
|
|
(19.5
|
)%
|
General and administrative expenses
|
|
|
3,623
|
|
|
|
8.9
|
%
|
|
|
4,724
|
|
|
|
10.1
|
%
|
|
|
(101
|
)
|
|
|
(23.3
|
)%
|
Research and development expenses
|
|
|
137
|
|
|
|
0.3
|
%
|
|
|
1,085
|
|
|
|
2.3
|
%
|
|
|
(948
|
)
|
|
|
(87.7
|
)%
|
Total operating expenses
|
|
|
4,450
|
|
|
|
11.0
|
%
|
|
|
6,666
|
|
|
|
14.2
|
%
|
|
|
(2,216
|
)
|
|
|
(33.2
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from operations
|
|
|
8,607
|
|
|
|
21.2
|
%
|
|
|
8,066
|
|
|
|
17.2
|
%
|
|
|
541
|
|
|
|
6.7
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other income (expenses)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income
|
|
|
0.5
|
|
|
|
0
|
%
|
|
|
83
|
|
|
|
0.2
|
%
|
|
|
(83
|
)
|
|
|
(99.4
|
)%
|
Interest expense
|
|
|
(471
|
)
|
|
|
(1.2
|
)%
|
|
|
(410
|
)
|
|
|
(0.9
|
)%
|
|
|
(61
|
)
|
|
|
14.9
|
%
|
Government subsidy income
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
0.1
|
%
|
|
|
326
|
|
|
|
0.7
|
%
|
|
|
(273
|
)
|
|
|
(83.7
|
)%
|
Other income
|
|
|
99
|
|
|
|
1.1
|
%
|
|
|
1,088
|
|
|
|
2.3
|
%
|
|
|
(989
|
)
|
|
|
(90.9
|
)%
|
Total other income (expense)
|
|
|
(319
|
)
|
|
|
(0.8
|
)%
|
|
|
1,087
|
|
|
|
2.3
|
%
|
|
|
(1,406
|
)
|
|
|
(129.3
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income before income taxes
|
|
|
8,288
|
|
|
|
20.4
|
%
|
|
|
9,153
|
|
|
|
19.6
|
%
|
|
|
(865
|
)
|
|
|
(9.5
|
)%
|
Provision for income taxes
|
|
|
1,367
|
|
|
|
3.4
|
%
|
|
|
2,116
|
|
|
|
4.5
|
%
|
|
|
(749
|
)
|
|
|
(35.4
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income from continuing operations
|
|
|
6,921
|
|
|
|
17.1
|
%
|
|
|
7,037
|
|
|
|
15.0
|
%
|
|
|
(116
|
)
|
|
|
(1.6
|
)%
|
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
|
(2,313
|
)
|
|
|
(5.7
|
)%
|
|
|
1,890
|
|
|
|
4.0
|
%
|
|
|
(4,203
|
)
|
|
|
(222.4
|
)%
|
Net income
|
|
|
4,608
|
|
|
|
11.4
|
%
|
|
|
8,927
|
|
|
|
19.1
|
%
|
|
|
(4,319
|
)
|
|
|
(48.4
|
)%
|
Net income attributable to common stockholders of Tantech Holding Inc.
|
|
$
|
4,299
|
|
|
|
10.6
|
%
|
|
$
|
8,439
|
|
|
|
18.0
|
%
|
|
$
|
(4,139
|
)
|
|
|
(49.1
|
)%
|
Revenues: revenues increased by approximately
$2.6 million, or 6.3%, to approximately $43.1 million in fiscal 2017 from approximately $40.5 million in fiscal 2016. The increase
was mainly attributable to approximately $8.6 million revenue from electronic vehicle (“EV”) segment and approximately
$1.3 million increase in revenue from trading segment, offset by a $7.7 million decrease in revenue from consumer product segment.
Revenues decreased by approximately $6.3
million, or 13.6%, to approximately $40.5 million in 2016 from approximately $46.8 million in 2015. The decrease was attributable
to the decreased sales from our biofuel energy segment, trading segment and consumer product segment.
Decrease in revenue from consumer product
segment
Our consumer product
segment is the largest among our three segments. Our revenue from consumer products was primarily generated through the sales of
our purification and deodorization products and cleaning products and barbecue charcoals designed for the domestic market. Our
consumer products are considered to be environmentally friendly not only because of the lifespan and fast growth rate of bamboo,
but also the minimum waste in the process of producing our products. In addition, our products feature a high raw material utilization
rate and have met the standards set for designation of “environmentally friendly” enterprises by the Chinese Society
for Environmental Sciences. Moreover, our facilities have received ISO 14001:2004 certification, which reflects our focus on measuring
and managing our environmental impact.
A study conducted in
Shanghai’s Lianhua Supermarket found that, given equivalent products, 85% of the consumers preferred environmentally friendly
products and were willing to pay prices up to 5% higher than traditional products. We anticipate that growing consumer preferences
for environmentally friendly products over traditional household cleaning products and increasing consumer awareness of our brand
as an “environmentally friendly” enterprise will drive revenue from our consumer products in the coming years.
Revenues for the consumer product segment decreased by $7.7 million, or 18%, to $32.7 million for fiscal
2017 from $40.0 million for the prior fiscal year. The gross margin of consumer product segment also decreased from 31.3% in fiscal
2016 to 25.5% in fiscal 2017. The decrease in our revenue from consumer product segment in 2017 was due to the following reasons.
First, as a result of the increasing E-commerce awareness and change of shopping habits among younger consumers, people are increasingly
buying consumer products online with unknown brands in order to save money. Therefore, orders from the Company’s customers
for its consumer products decreased considerably from approximately $40 million in 2016 to approximately $35.4 million in 2017.
Second, in 2017, the Company gradually reduced the cooperation with certain supermarket customers with low selling price and unfavorable
profit margin. Total number of supermarket customers decreased from 12 in 2016 to 8 in 2017, and revenue from supermarket customers
decreased by 95%, from $28 million (RMB 186.2 million) in 2016 to only $1.4 million (RMB 9.4 million) in 2017. On the other
hand, the Company increased sales to distributors during the current period. Revenue from distributors and specialty shop customers
increased by 156%, from $12.9 million in 2016 to $33.1 million in 2017. Total number of distributors and specialty shop customers
increased from 42 in 2016 to 48 in 2017. And third, in response to market competition, the Company also reduced the average selling
price by approximately 3% to 5% to satisfy customers’ demand in 2017 as compared to 2016. The overall decrease in the Company’s
revenue from consumer product segments reflected the above factors.
Revenues for the consumer
product segment decreased to approximately $40.0 million in fiscal 2016 from approximately $43.2 million in fiscal 2015. The decrease
was primarily attributable to the decreased sales of barbecue charcoal designed for domestic market and lower sales of kitchen
and bathroom cleaning products in 2016. In particular, the revenue from combustible charcoal for domestic market decreased by approximately
$8.1 million in 2016 compared to 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to the temporary disruption in supply of barbecue
charcoal in the last two months of 2015. The environmental policies in certain localities have been tightened in Daxinganling Region.
Charcoal kilns are being gradually shut down by the government. As a result, we are no longer able to purchase from our second
largest supplier TaheXinzhongda Carbon Co. The loss of one of the main suppliers could force us to look for alternative suppliers
at higher costs and thus increase our production costs in the coming years. In 2016, the overall consumer products sector experienced
general slowdown due to weak economy condition in China. As a result of the increasing E-commerce awareness and change of shopping
habits among younger generations, people are increasingly buying consumer products online with unknown brands in order to save
money. Therefore, orders from our major customers, which are third party distributors and retail stores, have decreased considerably,
that forced us to sell our products in supermarket instead, with a relatively lower sales price.
Trading segment
In our trading segment,
the revenue was approximately $1.8 million in fiscal 2017, an increase of 230% from $0.6 million in 2016. In fiscal 2016, we dropped
the trading business of non-“Charcoal Doctor” products, since those products disrupted our own branded charcoal products
sale. The change in marketing strategy caused low sales volume and revenue in fiscal 2016. Starting in fiscal 2017, the Company
focused on promoting “Charcoal Doctor” products in the market. As a result, our domestic sales of “Charcoal Doctor”
products increased from $0.1 million in fiscal 2016 to $1.4 million in fiscal 2017, while the export sales remained around $0.4
million in both years. The gross margin in export sales is generally higher than the domestic sales. The decline in gross margin
in fiscal 2017 was due to the fact that approximately 76% of sales in fiscal 2017 were made to domestic market with lower margins,
compared to only 19% sales to domestic market in fiscal 2016.
The revenue was approximately
$0.6 million in fiscal 2016, a decrease of 84.5% compared to approximately $3.6 million in fiscal 2015. In fiscal 2016, we dropped
the trading business of non-“Charcoal Doctor” products, since those products contributed lower gross margin and disrupted
our own branded charcoal products sale. We suspended those sales of charcoal related products in domestic market and increased
the exports instead. Therefore, the total sales volume of our trading segment decreased and led to the decreased revenue of trading
segment.
Electronic Vehicle (“EV”)
segment
On July 12, 2017 (the
“Closing Date”), the Company completed the acquisition of 70% of the equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors Co., Ltd (“Suzhou
E-Motors”), a specialty electric vehicles and power batteries manufacturer based in Zhang Jia Gang City, Jiangsu Province,
People’s Republic of China. The Company believes that the acquisition brings new advanced technologies and economic synergies
in electric vehicle market and broaden the Company’s customer base and cross-selling opportunities. The revenue for our
EV segment was approximately $8.6 million in fiscal 2017 with gross margin of 22.6%. The Company sold 100 electronic cars in fiscal
2017 with average price of approximately $47,000.
Disposition of Electric Double Layer
Capacitor (“EDLC”) segment.
Until recently, the
Company had another Biofuel Energy segment, which primarily produces and sells BBQ charcoal and bamboo-based fuel for Electric
Double Layer Capacitor (“EDLC”). Our EDLC carbon and low emission barbecue charcoal products are facing increasing
challenges from rapid technology innovation, competition from large international rivals, and our limited sales network for these
products. For the EDLC business, we had sales of approximately $3.4 million in 2017, decreased by 49% from approximately $6.7 million
in 2016. In order to cut recurring losses for this product category, we decided to cease operations of our EDLC carbon segment
and sold certain key assets to an entity headed by our current Chief Technology Officer. The Company believes this decision represented
a strategic shift that could have a material effect on the Company’s result of operations. Based on the Company’s management
accounts, certain assets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the revenue and expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017, 2016
and 2015 have been reclassified as discontinued operations to retrospectively reflect this transaction.
On December 14, 2017,
the Company and ZheJiang Apeikesi Energy Technology Co., Ltd (the “Buyer”) signed a purchase agreement (the “Agreement”),
pursuant to which, the Purchaser agreed to acquire certain assets and all copyrights and technology know-how related to EDLC carbon
business from the Company’s fully owned subsidiary Tantech Energy for a total price of $2,459,200 (RMB 16 million) (the “Purchase
Price”). The purchase price is payable in ten years with initial payment of approximately $0.7 million (RMB 4.48 million)
due in fiscal 2017. The remaining purchase price shall be paid in nine equal installments in the following nine years. The Purchaser
is required to pay annual interest on the remaining purchase price at the PRC prime borrowing rate. As of December 14, 2017, the
book value of net assets underlying the transaction was $432,929 and the gain from the sales transaction was approximately $1,948,490,
which was included in the net income from discontinued operation in fiscal 2017.
Cost of revenues:
Our cost of revenues
increased by approximately $4.9 million or 17.9% to approximately $32.4 million in fiscal 2017 from approximately $27.5 million
in fiscal 2016. As a percentage of revenues, the cost of revenue increased to 75.2% in fiscal 2017 from 67.8% in fiscal 2016.
The increase in cost
of revenues was mainly attributable to approximately $6.6 million cost of revenue for our EV segment. The cost of revenue for trading
segment increased by $1.4 million compared to fiscal 2016 due to higher revenue in fiscal 2017. On the other side, the cost of
revenue for consumer product segment decreased by 13% or approximately $3.7 million compared to fiscal 2016 due to 18% decrease
in revenue in fiscal 2017. The increase in cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues in fiscal 2017 was primarily attributable
to the increased material costs of our air purification, deodorizer and bamboo vinegar products.
Our cost of revenues
decreased by approximately $4.6 million or 14.4% to approximately $27.5 million in 2016 from approximately $32.1 million in 2015.
As a percentage of revenues, the cost of revenue decreased by 0.7% to 67.8% in 2016 from 68.5% in 2015. The decrease in cost of
revenues as a percentage of revenues in 2016 was primarily attributable to the decreased material costs of our air purification,
deodorizer and bamboo vinegar products. Cost of revenues in purification and deodorization products section increased by 28.9%
compared to 2016.
Gross profit:
Our gross profit decreased
by approximately $2.3 million, or 18.2% to approximately $10.7 million in fiscal 2017 from approximately $13 million in fiscal
2016. The gross profit margin was 24.8% in fiscal 2017, as compared to 32.2% in fiscal 2016. On segment basis, gross margins for
consumer product and trading were 25.5% and 22.8%, respectively, for fiscal 2017, compared to 31.3%, and 95.4%, respectively, for
fiscal 2016. The decrease in gross margin was primarily attributable to the lower selling price related our consumer products and
trading segment in fiscal 2017.
Our gross profit decreased
by approximately $1.7 million, or 11.4%, to approximately $13 million in 2016 from approximately $14.7 million in 2015. Gross profit
margin was 32.2% in 2016, as compared to 3.5% in 2015. The increase of 0.3 percentage points was primarily attributable to the
higher gross profit in our trading segment in 2016.
Selling expenses:
Selling expenses increased by approximately $0.1 million to approximately $0.8 million in fiscal 2017
compared to approximately $0.7 million in fiscal 2016. As a percentage of sales, our selling expenses increased to 1.8% of revenues
in fiscal 2017, as compared to 1.6% of revenues in fiscal 2016. The increase in selling expenses was primarily attributable to
$0.3 million of selling expense in our EV segment, which is our new business segment acquired in fiscal 2017. The selling expense
for our consumer product segment and trading segment decreased by $0.2 million compared to fiscal 2016. The decrease in selling
expenses was primarily attributable to the decreased sales commission and salary expenses by approximately $74,160, decreased trade
show and exhibit expenses by approximately $42,781 and decreased logistic service expenses by approximately $26,989, compared to
the prior fiscal year.
Selling expenses decreased
by approximately $167,000 to approximately $690,000 in fiscal 2016 compared to approximately $857,000 in 2015. As a percentage
of sales, our selling expenses decreased to 1.7% of revenues in fiscal 2016, as compared to 1.8% of revenues in fiscal 2015. The
decrease in selling expenses was primarily attributable to the decreased logistic service expenses, decreased expenses related
to export and lower labor expenses in fiscal 2016. Due to the decreasing sale and direct export volume of our products, in fiscal
2016, logistic service expenses as well as export expenses have decreased by approximately 39% and 31%, respectively, as compared
to fiscal 2015.
General and administrative
expenses:
Our general and administrative
expenses increased by approximately $1.0 million or 28.4%, to approximately $4.7 million in fiscal 2017 from approximately $3.6
million in fiscal 2016. As a percentage of revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 10.8% in fiscal 2017, compared
to 8.8% in fiscal 2016. The increase was primarily attributable to the following factors:
|
·
|
In connection with our discontinued operation of EDLC segment, general and administrative expenses of
approximately $3.9 million and $2.4 million for fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively, have been separately presented and reflected
under discontinued operations. The significant increase in general and administrative expense related to EDLC operations was mainly
attributable to an approximately $2.9 million bad debt reserve on advance to suppliers in fiscal 2017 because the company discontinued
the related operations; and
|
|
·
|
In terms of general and administrative expenses from continuing operation, our bad debt expense
related to accounts receivable increased by approximately $2.6 million. Based on the results of aging analysis performed, we set
aside approximately $3.9 million and $0.9 million as allowance for potentially uncollectable accounts receivable balances as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As a percentage of accounts receivable, our reserve balance increased to 7% as of December
31, 2017 from 2.3% as of December 31, 2016; and
|
|
·
|
In terms of general and administrative expenses from continuing operation, our bad debt expense related
to advance to suppliers decreased by $1.0 million compared to fiscal 2016, due to our continuous efforts on collection.
|
Our general and administrative
expenses decreased by approximately $1.1 million or 23.3%, to approximately $3.6 million in 2016 from approximately $4.7 million
in 2015. As a percentage of revenues, general and administrative expenses increased by 1.2% to 8.9% in 2016, compared to 11.7%
in 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to the following factors:
First, a decrease in
bad debt expenses related to our accounts receivable of approximately $0.7 million in fiscal 2016. Based on results of aging analysis
performed in fiscal 2016, we set aside approximately $0.5 million as allowance for potentially uncollectable accounts receivable
balances. Approximately $0.7 million of the accounts receivable balances that we had recorded allowances in prior years were collected
in fiscal 2016. We reversed the allowance by the same amount and decreased bad debt expenses related to accounts receivable of
approximately $0.2 million. As a result, our bad debt expenses related to accounts receivable decreased by approximately $0.7 million
in 2016, compared to bad debt expenses related to accounts receivable of approximately $1.0 million in 2015.
As a percentage of accounts
receivable, our reserve balance decreased by 0.6% to 2.3% as of December 31, 2016 from 2.9% as of December 31, 2015; and
Second, an increase
in bad debt expenses related to our advance to suppliers of approximately $1.9 million in fiscal 2016 compared to a net decrease
in bad debt expenses related to advances to suppliers of approximately $0.2 million in fiscal 2015. Due to recent tighten environmental
protection policies in China, many smaller suppliers have gone out of business. We reviewed conditions of each supplier, based
on our judgment, we adjusted accordingly in bad debt expenses related to our advances to suppliers in fiscal 2016.
As a percentage of advances
to suppliers, our reserve balance increased to 10.1% as of December 31, 2016 from 1.9% as of December 31, 2015. The increase in
reserve balance as a percentage of advances to suppliers in 2016 was primarily attributable to the increased bad debt expenses
we recognized in fiscal 2016 as mentioned above; and
Third, an increase in
consulting expenses of approximately $0.3 million, primarily due to the consulting expenses we paid related to the acquisition
of Suzhou E-motors.
Research and development
expenses
:
Research and development expenses increased by $0.5 million, or 358.4%, to $0.6 million in fiscal 2017
from $0.1 million in fiscal 2016. The increase was primarily due to our R&D efforts in our EV segment during the second half
of fiscal 2017. We intended to focus on the electric vehicle segment going forward.
Our research and development
expenses decreased by approximately $1 million to approximately $0.1 million in fiscal 2016 compared to approximately $1.1 million
in fiscal 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to the expenditure of approximately $0.5 million related to our sponsored
R&D project in fiscal 2015, and the Company has no such project in 2016. In addition, materials used on R&D project decreased
by approximately $0.1 million in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015.
Total operating expenses increased by $1.6 million, or 36.4%, to $6.1 million for fiscal 2017 from $4.5
million in fiscal 2016, which was mainly due to an increase of approximately $1.0 million in general and administrative expenses
for fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016.
Total operating expenses
decreased by $2.2 million, or 33.2%, to $4.5 million for fiscal 2016 from $6.7 million in fiscal 2015, which was mainly due to
a decrease of approximately $1.0 million in general and administrative expenses and $1 million in research and development expenses
for fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015.
Interest expenses:
Our interest expenses
decreased by approximately $0.08 million, or 17% to approximately $0.55 million in fiscal 2017, from approximately $0.47 million
in fiscal 2016, because our short-term loan balance reduced by approximately $1.5 million in fiscal 2017, compared to fiscal 2016.
Our interest expenses
increased by approximately $0.61 million, or 14.9% to approximately $0.47 million in 2016, from approximately $0.41 million in
2015. As the outstanding days of short-term bank loans in 2016 are more than that in 2015, we had more interest expenses accrued
for bank loans in 2016 compared to 2015.
Other Income:
Other income was approximately $0.4 million in fiscal 2017 and $0.1 million in fiscal 2016. Other income
was primarily related to the consulting fee that we charged to a third party company using our patent in its production of doors
with air treatment functionality.
Other income was approximately
$0.1 million and $1.1 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively. Other income was primarily related to the consulting fee that we
charged to a third party company using our patent in its production of doors with air treatment functionality.
Government subsidy
income:
Our government subsidy
income was approximately $53,000 in 2016 compared to approximately $326,000 in 2015. Our government subsidy income in 2016 and
2015 were all granted by local governments in recognizing our achievements in different areas. All subsidies we received in 2016
and 2015 were one-time grants and may not occur again in the future. We cannot predict the likelihood or amount of any future subsidies.
In 2016, we received
discretionary subsidies from Lishui Science & Technology Bureau. We received $52,597 in the aggregate in grants in 2016. Our
2016 subsidies consisted of the following grants:
Recipient
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
Date of grant
|
|
7/8/16
|
|
12/22/16
|
|
Amount (USD)
|
|
$22,587
|
|
$15,058
|
|
Government entity making the grant
|
|
Lishui Science & Technology Bureau
|
|
Lishui Science & Technology Bureau
|
|
Reason for grant
|
|
Grant for advanced talents project
|
|
Grant for technology development
|
|
Recipient
|
|
Tantech Charcoal
|
Date of grant
|
|
9/5/16
|
Amount (USD)
|
|
$7,423
|
Government entity making the grant
|
|
Lishui Science & Technology Bureau
|
Reason for grant
|
|
Subsidy for export oriented company
|
Recipient
|
|
Tantech Energy
|
Date of grant
|
|
12/1/16
|
Amount (USD)
|
|
$7,529
|
Government entity making the grant
|
|
Lishui Science & Technology Bureau
|
Reason for grant
|
|
Subsidy for R&D project
|
In 2015, we received
discretionary subsidies from various agencies within Lishui City. We received $326,018 in the aggregate in grants in 2015. Our
2015 subsidies consisted of the following grants:
Recipient
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
Date of grant
|
|
6/2/15
|
|
6/11/15
|
|
Amount (USD)
|
|
$240,900
|
|
$80,300
|
|
Government entity making the grant
|
|
Lishui City Economy Development Committee
|
|
Lishui City Economy Development Committee
|
|
Reason for grant
|
|
Grant for IPO
|
|
Subsidy for export
|
|
Recipient
|
|
Tantech Bamboo
|
Date of grant
|
|
7/2/15
|
|
12/23/15
|
|
Amount (USD)
|
|
$3,212
|
|
$1,606
|
|
Government entity making the grant
|
|
Lishui Economic Development Zone
|
|
Lishui Economic Development Zone
|
|
Reason for grant
|
|
Grant for growth in business
|
|
Subsidy for reducing emission
|
|
Income before income
taxes from continuing operations:
Our income before income
tax from continuing operations was approximately $4.5 million in fiscal 2017, a decrease of approximately $3.7 million compared
to approximately $8.2 million in fiscal 2016. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease of approximately 2.3 million
in gross profit, an increase of approximately $1.6 million in operating expense compared to fiscal 2016.
Our income before income taxes was approximately $8.2 million in 2016, a decrease of approximately $0.9
million compared to approximately $9.1 million in 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease of approximately
$1.7 million in gross profit, an offset by decrease of approximately $2.2 million in operating expense in fiscal 2016 compared
to fiscal 2015.
Provision for income
taxes:
Our provision for income
taxes was approximately $1.5 million in fiscal 2017, an increase of approximately $0.2 million or 11.2% from approximately $1.4
million in fiscal 2016. Even though the Company had a lower income before income tax from continuing operations, the Company provided
full valuation allowance on bad debt reserves due to uncertainties in realizing those tax benefits in future, which resulted in
higher income tax provision in fiscal 2017.
Our provision for income taxes was approximately $1.4 million in fiscal 2016, a decrease of approximately
$0.7 million or 35.4% from approximately $2.1 million in 2015. The decrease in provision for income taxes was primarily attributable
to lower income before income taxes, which was partially offset by a higher effective income tax rate in fiscal 2016 compared to
fiscal 2015.
Net income (loss)
from discontinued operations:
We sold EDLC business in fiscal 2017. The net income for EDLC business was approximately $0.03 million
fiscal 2017 and was a net loss of $2.3 million in fiscal 2016. The Company recognized approximately $1.9 million gain from sale
of EDLC business to ZheJiang Apeikesi Energy Technology Co., Ltd in fiscal 2017. The gain on disposition was offset by approximately
$2.9 million bad debt reserve on advance to suppliers in fiscal 2017 because we discontinued EDLC business.
Net income attributable
to common stockholders:
Our net income attributable
to common stockholders was approximately $3.8 million in fiscal 2017, a decrease of approximately $0.5 million from approximately
$4.3 million in fiscal 2016. The decrease was attributable to the factors described above.
Our net income attributable
to common stockholders was approximately $4.3 million in 2016, a decrease of approximately $4.1 million from approximately $8.4
million in 2015. The decrease was attributable to the factors described above.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
We are a holding company
incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. We may need dividends and other distributions on equity from our PRC subsidiaries to
satisfy our liquidity requirements. Current PRC regulations permit our PRC subsidiaries to pay dividends to us only out of their
accumulated profits, if any, determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. In addition, our PRC subsidiaries
are required to set aside at least 10% of their respective accumulated profits each year, if any, to fund certain reserve funds
until the total amount set aside reaches 50% of their respective registered capital. Our PRC subsidiaries may also allocate a portion
of its after-tax profits based on PRC accounting standards to employee welfare and bonus funds at their discretion. These reserves
are not distributable as cash dividends.
We have relied on direct
payments of expenses by our subsidiaries (which generate revenues), to meet our obligations to date.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the
Company had significant decrease in revenue from consumer product segment due to stiff competition; disposed its EDLC business
as a result of operating losses and outdated technology; completed the acquisition of Suzhou E-Motors to enter into electric vehicle
(“EV”) business. All these events had and will continue to have significant impact on the Company’s operations.
For its consumer product sector, the Company significantly cut its sales to supermarket customers because of long aged accounts
receivable from these supermarket customers as online shopping has become increasing popular. The Company has been experiencing
longer sales and collection period while pushing back on the delivery of raw materials for production. That leads to higher balances
of accounts receivable and advances to suppliers as compared to prior years. Meanwhile, the newly acquired EV sector is also experiencing
delays of government rebate processing time and reduction of the amount of government rebates on eligible vehicles due to recent
policy change. On the other hand, the disposal of EDLC business can save the Company certain operating cash flows.
Due to a successful equity financing resulted
in net proceeds of $5.6 million in September 2017, the Company still had approximately $10 million cash on hand as of December
31, 2017. Although the Company maintains a positive work capital as of December 31, 2017 and generated positive cash flows from
its continued operations during the year ended December 31, 2017, the future operations of the Company depend on whether or not
the Company can successfully collect its accounts receivable and utilize its advances, as well as how the change of government
policies affect its new EV business. Without additional equity financing, the Company may heavily rely on bank borrowings or shareholder/related
party loans to fund its working capital needs. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had short-term loan balance of approximately
$5.2 million and $6.7 million, respectively. In addition, the Company had bank acceptance note payable balance of $7.0 million
and $1.7 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Any failure to renew these bank borrowings upon their maturities
could have adverse impact on the Company’s operations.
The Company currently
plans to fund its operations mainly through cash flow from its operations, renewal of bank borrowings, additional equity financing
and the continuing financial support by its shareholders and its affiliates controlled by its principal shareholder, if necessary,
in the near future to ensure sufficient working capital. The Company has implemented a stricter policy on sales to supermarkets
and less credible customers and continues to improve its collection efforts on accounts with outstanding balances. As of May 6,
2018, the Company subsequently collected $16.4 million of the accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2017 from its continuing
operations and $5.4 million of the accounts receivable balance from its EDLC business. The Company also subsequently utilized $2.4
million of advance to suppliers balance as of December 31, 2017 from its continuing operations, and collected refund of $1.0 million
advance to suppliers balance from its EDLC business as of May 6, 2018. The Company is actively working with other customers and
suppliers and expects to fully collect or utilize the rest of is prepayment balance in 2018. As of the date of this report, the
Company maintains a cash balance of approximately $9.8 million, excluding the $18.4 equity investment paid to acquire Lishui Xincai
Industrial Co., Ltd. (See Note 22 – Subsequent Event).
The Company is also working closely with
the local government to speed up the government rebate process and expects the outstanding rebate receivable to be fully collected
in 2019. With disposal of its EDLC business and its placing focus on manufacturing of more marketable consumer products, the Company
is shifting its strategy to cut back costs and ensure profitability. Although the Company is currently not generating net income
from its EV sector, it has been focusing on reducing the costs and expenses and developing other non-rebate alternative energy
products. The recent government policy change in reduction of the EV rebate amount will
likely affect Suzhou E-Motors’ future operations. The Company is adjusting its operation plans to either raise sales prices
on current products or develop and manufacture products that are less prone to government rebate program and more market-oriented
such as wheelchair for the elderly and disabled and small delivery van. The Company plans to fund this sector through additional
private placements of securities and continued support from its parent company even without timely receipt of government rebates.
The principal shareholder of the Company, along with the affiliated entity, Forasen Group, have made pledges to provide financial
support to the Company whenever necessary.
Based on current operating plans, management
believes that the above-mentioned measures collectively will provide sufficient liquidity for the Company to meet its future liquidity
and capital requirement for at least next twelve months from the date of this report.
Further, although instruments
governing the current debts incurred by our PRC subsidiaries do not have restrictions on their abilities to pay dividend or make
other payments to us, the lender may impose such restriction in the future. As a result, our ability to distribute dividends largely
depends on earnings from our PRC subsidiaries and its ability to pay dividends out of its earnings. We cannot assure you that
our PRC subsidiaries will generate sufficient earnings and cash flows in the near future to pay dividends or otherwise distribute
sufficient funds to enable us to meet our obligations, pay interest and expenses or declare dividends.
Years Ended December 31, 2017 and
2016
As of December 31,
2017, we had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $9.9 million. Our current assets were approximately $89.2 million and
our current liabilities were approximately $26.8 million, which resulted in a current ratio of 3.3:1, decreased from 4.5:1 in
fiscal 2016. Total shareholders’ equity as of December, 31 2017 was approximately $109.6 million.
Our accounts receivable
turnover in days were 391 days and 450 days for fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively. Although we typically does not grant special
payment terms to our customers, some of our customers, who are large retailers and wholesale chains, tend to require longer payment
terms but are unlikely to default. The instances of slow payments and long-aging receivables may have negative impact on our short-term
operating cash flow and future liquidity. We periodically review our accounts receivable and allowance level in order to ensure
our methodology used to determine allowances is reasonable and accrued additional allowances if necessary. We have recently put
a lot of efforts into accounts receivable collection through tightening our customer credit policy and strengthening monitoring
of uncollected receivables. If the Company has difficulty collecting, the following steps will be taken, including but not limited
to: cease any additional shipments to the customers, visit the customers to request payments on past due invoices, and if necessary,
take legal recourse. If all of these steps are unsuccessful, management will determine whether or not the receivable will be reserved
or written off.
Total accounts receivable aging was as
follows as of December 31, 2017:
Aging
|
|
December 31, 2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less than 3 months
|
|
$
|
21,185,207
|
|
4-6 months
|
|
|
9,943,288
|
|
7-12 months
|
|
|
12,614,456
|
|
Over 12 months
|
|
|
8,464,544
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
51,757,495
|
|
Breakdown by business
|
|
December 31, 2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable – short term portion from continuing operations, net
|
|
$
|
44,834,930
|
|
Accounts receivable – short term portion from EDLC business, net
|
|
|
5,420,047
|
|
Accounts receivable- Long-term
|
|
|
1,502,518
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
51,757,495
|
|
For the accounts receivable
from continuing operations, the Company provided bad debt allowance of $3.8 million against the aged accounts receivable balances.
Subsequent to December 31, 2017 and through May 6, 2018, the Company collected $16.4 million or 37% of the accounts receivable
balance from continuing businesses as of December 31, 2017 (including $2.2 million accounts receivable from related parties).
For the accounts receivable
from EDLC business, the Company provided bad debt allowance of $85,153 against the aged accounts receivable balances. The Company
has subsequently as of May 6, 2018, collected back aggregate accounts receivable balance of approximately $5.4 million from three
of the Company’s major customers in EDLC business. As a result, remaining accounts receivable from EDLC business is immaterial
as of this Report Date.
As of December 31, 2017
and 2016, the Company had significant advances to suppliers of approximately $17.5 million and 14.8 million, respectively. In order
to ensure a steady supply of raw materials, the Company is required from time to time to make cash advances when placing its purchase
orders. Due to recent tighten environmental protection policies in China, many smaller suppliers have gone out of business. The
Company monitors the advances to suppliers account and the allowance level periodically in order to ensure the related allowance
is reasonable. We have since enhanced our collections or realization on advance to suppliers through tightening vendor prepayment
policy and strengthening monitoring of unrealized prepayment. If the Company has difficulty collecting, the following steps will
be taken: cease additional purchases from these suppliers, visit the suppliers to request return of the prepayments promptly, and
if necessary, take legal recourse. If all of these steps are unsuccessful, management will determine whether or not the prepayment
will be reserved or written off.
Advances to suppliers’
aging was as follows as of December 31, 2017:
Aging
|
|
December 31, 2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less than 3 months
|
|
$
|
9,991,311
|
|
4-6 months
|
|
|
4,561,171
|
|
7-12 months
|
|
|
399,770
|
|
Over 12 months
|
|
|
2,568,713
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
17,520,965
|
|
Breakdown by business
|
|
December 31, 2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
Advances to suppliers from continuing operations, net
|
|
$
|
11,290,625
|
|
Advances to suppliers from EDLC business, net
|
|
|
6,230,340
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
17,520,965
|
|
The advances to suppliers
from continuing businesses was approximately $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2017, the Company provided
approximately $0.6 million bad debt allowance against the aged advance to supplier balances. Subsequent to December 31, 2017 through
May 6, 2018, the Company utilized or received refund of $2.4 million or 21% of the advances to suppliers from continuing businesses
balance as of December 31, 2017. Based on current sales trend, the Company expects to see increased sales revenue from consumer
product segment in fiscal 2018 and estimates most of the advance to supplier balance from continuing operation will be utilized
in fiscal 2018.
The advances to suppliers
from EDLC business was approximately $6.2 million as of December 31, 2017. The Company provided $4.1 million bad debt reserve
against the aged advance to supplier balances under EDLC business as of December 31, 2017. Subsequent to December 31, 2017 and
through May 6, 2018, the Company collected $1.0 million or 16.1% of the advances to suppliers balance as of December 31, 2017.
One of the Company’s major vendor in EDLC business, Longquan Zhixin Trading Co,, Ltd., with outstanding advance to supplier
balance of $5.9 million as of December 31, 2017 has signed an agreement with the Company to repay the full amount prior to June
2018.
The following table sets forth summary
of our cash flows for the periods indicated:
(All amounts in thousands of U.S. dollars)
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
|
|
$
|
2,304
|
|
|
$
|
(7,033
|
)
|
Net cash used in investing activities
|
|
|
(3,494
|
)
|
|
|
(1,878
|
)
|
Net cash provided by financing activities
|
|
|
4,944
|
|
|
|
9,057
|
|
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
|
|
|
244
|
|
|
|
(476
|
)
|
Net increase (decrease) in cash
|
|
|
3,998
|
|
|
|
(330
|
)
|
Cash, beginning of year
|
|
|
5,943
|
|
|
|
6,273
|
|
Cash, end of year
|
|
$
|
9,941
|
|
|
$
|
5,943
|
|
(All amounts in thousands of U.S. dollars)
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
|
|
$
|
(7,033
|
)
|
|
$
|
4,451
|
|
Net cash used in investing activities
|
|
|
(1,878
|
)
|
|
|
(7,154
|
)
|
Net cash provided by financing activities
|
|
|
9,057
|
|
|
|
8,843
|
|
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
|
|
|
(476
|
)
|
|
|
(282
|
)
|
Net increase (decrease) in cash
|
|
|
(330
|
)
|
|
|
5,858
|
|
Cash, beginning of year
|
|
|
6,273
|
|
|
|
415
|
|
Cash, end of year
|
|
$
|
5,943
|
|
|
$
|
6,273
|
|
Operating Activities
Net cash provided by
operating activities was approximately $2.3 million in fiscal 2017, compared to cash used in operating activities of approximately
$7.0 million in fiscal 2016. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to the following
factors:
|
·
|
a reduction in advance to suppliers of approximately $4.1 million due to better utilization or refund
of advance to suppliers in fiscal 2017, compared to $11.4 million increase in payment of advances to suppliers for fiscal 2016.
During 2016, we were unable to purchase from our previous major supplier TaheXinzhongda Carbon Co., Ltd on timely basis due to
shortage of supply. In order to secure stable supply of raw materials, we increased prepayments to the other two suppliers in fiscal
2016
|
|
·
|
the bad debt reserve for fiscal 2017 was approximately $2.6 million, compared to approximately $0.2 million
bad debt reserve for accounts receivable in fiscal 2016. The increase in bad debt reserve primarily related to aged accounts receivable
and advance to supplier on the Company’s consumer product segment as a result of decreased revenue trend and slow cash collection
cycle.
|
Offset by the impacts from the following
factors:
|
·
|
the Company had a net income of $3.0 in fiscal 2017, decreased by $1.6 million from fiscal 2016
|
|
·
|
an increase of government rebate receivable of $2.9 million from our EV segment in fiscal
2017
|
|
·
|
a reduction of tax payable of approximately $3.0 million in fiscal 2017 due to payment of taxes, compared
to an increase of tax payable of $87,175 in fiscal 2016
|
|
·
|
the Company provided approximately $0.9 million bad debt reserve to advance to suppliers in fiscal
2016. With improved utilization of advance to suppliers in fiscal 2017, the Company only provided $45,507 bad debt reserve to advance
to suppliers for fiscal 2017.
|
Net cash used in operating activities was approximately $7.0 million in fiscal 2016, compared to cash
provided by operating activities of approximately $4.5 million in fiscal 2015. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities
was primarily attributable to the following factors:
|
·
|
The decrease in net income of approximately by approximately $4.4 million in 2016 compared to 2015;
|
|
·
|
Accounts receivable increased by approximately $3.2 million in 2016 compared to an increase of $213,000 in 2015. Our typical standard payment terms offered to our customers are 3 months. In 2016, we increased sales to large retailers and wholesale clubs, however, they tend to require longer payment terms than 3 months. Considering they are well-established big companies and their default risk is relatively low, we extended their credit terms up to 9 months to 12 months. As a result, accounts receivable turnover decreased in 2016 compared to 2015;
|
|
·
|
Advances to suppliers increased by approximately $11.4 million in 2016 compared to an increase of approximately $5.8 million in 2015. In 2016, we were unable to purchase from our previous second largest supplier TaheXinzhongda Carbon Co. as mentioned above, thus we rely on other two main suppliers. In order to secure stable supply of raw materials, we increased prepayments to them in 2016;
|
The decrease in net
cash provided by operating activities was partially offset by:
|
·
|
The increase in allowances for advances to suppliers of approximately $1.9 million in 2016 compared to a net decrease of approximately $9,000 in 2015;
|
|
·
|
The increase in depreciation expense of approximately $1.2 million in 2016 compared to a net increase of approximately $1.2 million in 2015.
|
Net cash used in
investing activities was $3.5 million for fiscal 2017, compared to net cash used in investing activities of $1.8 million in fiscal
2016. The increase in net cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2017 was primarily attributable the payment of $4.5 million
paid for acquisition of Suzhou E-Motors. The net cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2016 was primarily attributable to
$3.4 million deposit made for business acquisition of E-Motor, offset by a refund of $1.5 million by a supplier due to the cancellation
of an asset purchase.
Net cash used in investing
activities was approximately $1.9 million in 2016, compared to net cash used in investing activities of approximately $7.2 million
in 2015. The decrease in net cash used in investing activities was primarily attributable to deposit made for a business acquisition
in fiscal 2016 a decrease by about $4.7 million compared with 2015.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $4.9 million for fiscal 2017, compared to net cash provided
by financing activities of $9.1 million for the prior fiscal year. Net cash provided by financing activities for fiscal 2017 primarily
due to proceeds of approximately $6.0 million received from September 2017 private placement and $4.9 million increase in bank
acceptance note payable, offset by increase in restricted cash of $3.4 million and net repayment of $1.9 million in bank loans.
The net cash provided by financing activities for fiscal 2016 was primarily attributable to the proceeds received from our private
placement of approximately $8.0 million in 2016 and net proceeds from bank acceptance note payable of $1.8 million, offset by net
repayment on bank loans of $1.2 million.
Net cash provided
by financing activities was approximately $9.1 million in 2016, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of approximately
$8.8 million in 2015. The increase in net cash provided by financing activities in 2016 was primarily attributable to the proceeds
received from our private placement of approximately $8.0 million, the net increase of bank borrowings of approximately $7.0 million
and the increase in borrowings from bank acceptance notes payable of approximately $4.8 million. The increase was partially offset
by an increase in repayments of bank loans of approximately $8.3 million and increase in repayments of bank acceptance notes of
$3.0 million.
Our primary source
of cash is currently generated from the sales of our products and bank borrowings. In the coming years, we will be looking to other
sources, such as raising additional capital by issuing shares of our common stock to meet our cash needs. While facing uncertainties
in regards to the size and timing of capital raise, we expect to be able to meet our working capital and capital expenditure
requirements by using our cash on hand, cash flows from operations and bank borrowings in the next twelve months.
Loan Facilities
As of December 31, 2017,
the balance of our bank loans was approximately $5.2 million. Our outstanding balance of bank acceptance notes was $7.0 million
on December 31, 2017.
As of December 31, 2017,
the details of all our short-term bank loans are as follow:
(All amounts are in U.S. dollars)
No
|
|
Type
|
|
Contracting Party
|
|
Valid Date
|
|
Duration
|
|
Amount
|
|
1
|
|
Short-term bank loan
|
|
Bank of China
|
|
2017-09-28 to 2018-09-15
|
|
1 year
|
|
$
|
3,057,093
|
|
4
|
|
Short-term bank loan
|
|
Bank of China
|
|
2017-09-28 to 2018-09-25
|
|
1 year
|
|
$
|
2,151,800
|
|
Although we currently
do not have any material unused sources of liquidity, giving effect to the foregoing bank loans and other financing activities,
we believe that our currently available working capital should be adequate to sustain our operations at our current levels through
at least for the next twelve months. We will consider additional borrowing or public offering based on our working capital needs
and capital expenditure requirements. There is no seasonality of our borrowing activities.
We
repaid approximately $8.3 million and borrowed approximately $7.0 million in bank loans for our working capital needs during the
year ended December 31, 2016. We also repaid approximately $3.0 million of bank acceptance notes payable and secured approximately
$4.8 million of bank acceptance notes payable in fiscal 2016. As a result, the balance of all our bank loans as of December 31,
2016 was approximately $6.7 million. Our outstanding balance of bank acceptance notes was $1.7 million on December 31, 2016.
As of December 31, 2016,
the details of all our short-term bank loans are as follow:
(All amounts are in U.S. dollars)
No
|
|
Type
|
|
Contracting Party
|
|
Valid Date
|
|
Duration
|
|
Amount
|
|
1
|
|
Short-term bank loan
|
|
Bank of China
|
|
2016-06-08 to 2017-06-05
|
|
1 year
|
|
$
|
2,879,420
|
|
2
|
|
Short-term bank loan
|
|
Shanghai Pudong Development Bank
|
|
2016-08-16 to 2017-08-15
|
|
1 year
|
|
$
|
1,439,710
|
|
3
|
|
Short-term bank loan
|
|
Banks of Hangzhou
|
|
2016-03-28 to 2017-03-26
|
|
1 year
|
|
$
|
287,942
|
|
4
|
|
Short-term bank loan
|
|
Bank of China
|
|
2016-05-11 to 2017-05-09
|
|
1 year
|
|
$
|
2,087,580
|
|
Although we currently
do not have any material unused sources of liquidity, giving effect to the foregoing bank loans and other financing activities,
we believe that our currently available working capital should be adequate to sustain our operations at our current levels through
at least for the next twelve months. We will consider additional borrowing or public offering based on our working capital needs
and capital expenditure requirements. There is no seasonality of our borrowing activities.
Statutory Reserves
Under PRC regulations,
all our subsidiaries in the PRC may pay dividends only out of their accumulated profits, if any, determined in accordance with
PRC GAAP. In addition, these companies are required to set aside at least 10% of their after-tax net profits each year, if any,
to fund the statutory reserves until the balance of the reserves reaches 50% of their registered capital. The statutory reserves
are not distributable in the form of cash dividends to the Company and can be used to make up cumulative prior year losses.
Restrictions on net
assets also include the conversion of local currency into foreign currencies, tax withholding obligations on dividend distributions,
the need to obtain State Administration of Foreign Exchange approval for loans to a non-PRC consolidated entity. We did not have
these restrictions on our net assets as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. We are also a party to certain debt agreements
that are secured with pledges on our real property in Shuige Industrial Zone facility located in Lishui, China. But such debt agreements
do not restrict our net assets and instead only impose restrictions on the pledged property.
The following table
provides the amount of our statutory reserves, the amount of restricted net assets, consolidated net assets, and the amount of
restricted net assets as a percentage of consolidated net assets, as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.
|
|
As of
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
As of
December 31,
2016
|
|
Statutory Reserves
|
|
$
|
6,461,788
|
|
|
$
|
6,461,788
|
|
Total Restricted Net Assets
|
|
$
|
6,461,788
|
|
|
$
|
6,461,788
|
|
Consolidated Net Assets
|
|
$
|
109,612,378
|
|
|
$
|
80,206,069
|
|
Restricted Net Assets as Percentage of Consolidated Net Assets
|
|
|
5.9
|
%
|
|
|
8.1
|
%
|
Total restricted net
assets accounted for approximately 5.9% of our consolidated net assets as of December 31, 2017. As our subsidiaries usually set
aside only 10% of after-tax net profits each year to fund the statutory reserves and are not required to fund the statutory reserves
when they incur losses, we believe the potential impact of such restricted net assets on our liquidity is limited.
Total restricted net
assets accounted for approximately 8.1% of our consolidated net assets as of December 31, 2016. As our subsidiaries usually set
aside only 10% of after-tax net profits each year to fund the statutory reserves and are not required to fund the statutory reserves
when they incur losses, we believe the potential impact of such restricted net assets on our liquidity is limited.
Capital Expenditures
We had capital expenditures
of $82,263, $10,819 and $242,552 for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively for the addition and renovation
of our workshops and office buildings; purchasing of equipment in connection with our business activities.
We expect that our capital
expenditures will increase in the future as our business continues to develop and expand. We have used cash generated from our
subsidiaries’ operations to fund our capital commitments in the past and anticipate using such funds and proceeds received
from our initial public offering, our secondary offering and other sources to fund capital expenditure commitments in the future.
E. Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
We provided a guaranty
on behalf of Forasen Group’s outstanding line of credit of RMB 57,070,000 (equivalent to $8,771,659) by pledging our building
with a net book value of approximately $6.4 million as the collateral for the loan and notes. The guaranty will be expired on July
23, 2020. As of today, no additional guarantee was made by the Company.
We had capital expenditures
of approximately $11,000 and $243,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively for the addition and renovation
of our workshops and office buildings; purchasing of equipment in connection with our business activities.
Except for the above-mentioned guaranty,
we have not entered into any other financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third
parties. In addition, we have not entered into any derivative contracts that are indexed to our own shares and classified as shareholder’s
equity, or that are not reflected in our consolidated financial statements.
Critical Accounting Policies
We prepare our financial
statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted by the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”),
which requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amount of assets, liabilities, revenue,
costs and expenses, and any related disclosures. Although there was no material changes made to the accounting estimates and assumptions
in the past three years, we continually evaluate these estimates and assumptions based on the most recently available information,
our own historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Since the
use of estimates is an integral component of the financial reporting process, actual results could differ from our expectations
as a result of changes in our estimates.
We believe that the
following accounting policies involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity in their application and require us to make significant
accounting estimates. Accordingly, these are the policies we believe are the most critical to understanding and evaluating our
consolidated financial condition and results of operations.
Use of Estimates
In preparing the consolidated financial
statements in conformity with US GAAP, management makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the consolidated financial statements, as well
as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting year. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions
include the fair value estimates used in the purchase price allocation, the useful lives of property and equipment; allowances
pertaining to the allowance for doubtful accounts and advances to related parties and suppliers; the valuation of inventories;
and the realizability of deferred tax assets.
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for
under the purchase method of accounting. Under the purchase method, assets and liabilities of the business acquired are recorded
at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition with any excess of the cost of the acquisition over the fair value
of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired recorded as goodwill. Results of operations of the acquired business are included
in the income statement from the date of acquisition.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues under FAS
Codification Topic 605 (“ASC 605”). Revenue is recognized when all of the following have occurred: (i) persuasive evidence
of an arrangement exists, (ii) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (iii) the price is fixed or determinable,
and (iv) the ability to collect is reasonably assured. These criteria, as related to the Company’s revenue, are considered
to have been met as follows:
Sales of products: Upon sales of products,
the delivery of goods either occurs when (a) goods leave the Company’s warehouse or production facilities or (b) goods are
delivered and accepted by customer, usually at a location outside the Company. For sales under free on board (“FOB”)
warehouse or production facilities term, the Company recognizes revenue when product leaves the Company’s warehouse or production
facility. Product delivery is evidenced by warehouse shipping log as well as signed shipping bills from the shipping company. For
sales under FOB destination term, the Company recognizes revenue when product is delivered and accepted by customer. Product delivery
is evidenced by signed receipt document upon delivery.
Under both cases, the risk of loss and/or
title of goods passes to the customer at the time of delivery. The Company does not recognize any revenue for any sale arrangements
that do not transfer title and/or risk of loss. The Company’s sales cutoff for both methods is evidenced by the receipt of
goods delivery either signed by the shipping company or the customer acknowledging the receipt of goods. Such document is used
as the proof of transfer of title and/or risk of loss.
Revenue from the rendering of services:
Revenue from electric vehicle assembly services are recognized upon performance of services as stipulated in the underlying contract.
Service revenue generated is currently minimum and insignificant.
Government manufacturing rebate income:
The Company is eligible for a government manufacturing rebate on each qualifying electric bus sold. The government manufacturing
rebates are recognized as part of revenue when sales are finalized, amount of rebates can be reasonably estimated and collection
is assured. The collectability of rebates can be assured as long as the sales are deemed qualifying based on the criteria set by
the government.
Revenue is reported net of all value added
taxes. The Company does not routinely permit customers to return products and historically, customer returns have been immaterial.
Recent accounting pronouncements
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09), which
supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, including most industry-specific revenue recognition
guidance throughout the Industry Topics of the Codification. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised
goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that is expected to be received for
those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which deferred the effective date of ASU 2014-09 to fiscal
years beginning after December 31, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted for reporting
periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Subsequently, the FASB issued ASUs in 2016 containing implementation guidance related
to ASU 2014-09, including: ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations
(Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net), which is intended to improve the operability and understandability of the implementation
guidance on principal versus agent considerations; ASU 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying
Performance Obligations and Licensing, which is intended to clarify two aspects of Topic 606: identifying performance obligations
and the licensing implementation guidance; ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements
and Practical Expedients, which contains certain provisions and practical expedients in response to identified implementation issues;
and ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which is intended
to clarify the Codification or to correct unintended application of guidance. ASU 2014-09 allows for either full retrospective
or modified retrospective adoption. The Company adopted ASU 2014-09 and the related ASUs on January 1, 2018 using the modified
retrospective method, which will not result in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to the opening balance sheet of retained earnings
at the effective date.
Under ASC 606, an entity recognizes revenue
when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects the consideration which the entity
expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. To determine revenue recognition for arrangements that an entity determines
are within the scope of ASC 606, the entity performs the following five steps: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (ii)
identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price; (iv) allocate the transaction price
to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation.
ASC 606 also impacts certain other areas, such as the accounting for costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. The standard also requires
disclosure of the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers.
The Company has performed an assessment of our revenue contracts and concluded that there will be no change
to (1) the timing and pattern of revenue recognition for its current revenue streams in scope of Topic 606, which includes product
sales, (2) the presentation of revenue as gross versus net, or (3) the amount of capitalized contract costs upon adoption of Topic
606. Because there will be no change to the timing and pattern of revenue recognition, we believe there will be no material changes
to the Company’s consolidated financial statements
of
exemption of additional required disclosure.
In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting
Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (ASU 2016-02). ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize lease assets and lease
liabilities on the balance sheet and to disclose key information about the entity’s leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. A modified retrospective
approach is required. The Company anticipates the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated
financial position; however, the Company does not believe adoption will have a material impact on the Company’s results of
operations. The Company believes the most significant impact relates to our accounting for operating leases for office space and
equipment.
In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, "Statement
of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash", which requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period
in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore,
amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents
when reconciling the beginning-of- period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments
in this ASU apply to all entities that have restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents and are required to present a statement
of cash flows under Topic 230. The amendments are effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December
15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments should be applied using a
retrospective transition method to each period presented. The Company plans to adopt this ASU in the first quarter of fiscal 2018.
The adoption of this guidance will increase cash and cash equivalents by the amount of restricted cash on the Company's consolidated
statement of cash flows.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No.
2017-01, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business”. The amendments in this ASU clarify
the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should
be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. Basically these amendments provide a screen to determine
when a set is not a business. If the screen is not met, the amendments in this ASU first, require that to be considered a business,
a set must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create
output and second, remove the evaluation of whether a market participant could replace missing elements. These amendments take
effect for public businesses for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those periods, and all
other entities should apply these amendments for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within annual
periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material
impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No.
2017-01, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business”. The amendments in this ASU clarify
the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should
be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. Basically, these amendments provide a screen to determine
when a set is not a business. If the screen is not met, the amendments in this ASU first, require that to be considered a business,
a set must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create
output and second, remove the evaluation of whether a market participant could replace missing elements. These amendments take
effect for public businesses for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those periods, and all
other entities should apply these amendments for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within annual
periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material
impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU No.
2017-05 (“ASU 2017-05”) to provide guidance for recognizing gains and losses from the transfer of nonfinancial assets
and in-substance nonfinancial assets in contracts with non-customers, unless other specific guidance applies. The standard requires
a company to derecognize nonfinancial assets once it transfers control of a distinct nonfinancial asset or distinct in substance
nonfinancial asset. Additionally, when a company transfers its controlling interest in a nonfinancial asset, but retains a noncontrolling
ownership interest, the company is required to measure any noncontrolling interest it receives or retains at fair value. The guidance
requires companies to recognize a full gain or loss on the transaction. As a result of the new guidance, the guidance specific
to real estate sales in ASC 360-20 will be eliminated. ASU 2017-05 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15,
2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. The effective date of this guidance coincides with revenue recognition
guidance. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial
statements.
In March 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-05
— Income Taxes (Topic 740): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“ASU 2018-05”),
which amends the FASB Accounting Standards Codification and XBRL Taxonomy based on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Act”)
that was signed into law on December 22, 2017 and Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) that was released by
the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Act changes numerous provisions that impact U.S. corporate tax rates, business-related
exclusions, and deductions and credits and may additionally have international tax consequences for many companies that operate
internationally. The Company does not believe this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual
Obligations
Below is a table setting
forth all of our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2017, which consists of our short-term loan agreements, loans from
third parties and due to related parties:
|
|
Payment Due by Period
|
|
Contractual Obligations
|
|
Total
|
|
|
Less than
1 year
|
|
|
1 – 3
years
|
|
|
3 – 5
years
|
|
|
More than
5 years
|
|
Short-Term Debt Obligations
|
|
$
|
5,208,893
|
|
|
$
|
5,208,893
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
Bank Acceptance Notes Payable
|
|
|
6,957,526
|
|
|
|
6,975,526
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Operating Lease Obligations
|
|
|
65,131
|
|
|
|
65,131
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Due to third parties
|
|
|
2,995,228
|
|
|
|
2,995,228
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Due to related parties
|
|
|
708,864
|
|
|
|
708,864
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
15,953,642
|
|
|
$
|
15,953,642
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
G. Safe Harbor
See “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking
Statements.”
Item
6.
|
Directors, senior management and employees
|
A.
|
Directors and Senior Management
|
The following table
provides information regarding our executive officers and directors as of May 11, 2018:
Name
|
|
Age
|
|
Position(s)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zhengyu Wang
|
|
49
|
|
Chairman of Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wangfeng Yan
|
|
41
|
|
Chief Operating Officer
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jing Jin
|
|
36
|
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yefang Zhang
|
|
51
|
|
Director
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wencai Pan
|
|
40
|
|
Director (Independent)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hongdao Qian
|
|
54
|
|
Director (Independent)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shudong Wang
|
|
67
|
|
Director (Independent)
|
Zhengyu Wang
is a seasoned veteran in business and high-tech agricultural products. He founded Tantech Bamboo in October 2002
(then known as Lishui Zhonglin High Tech Co., Ltd.) and he has served as Chairman and CEO ever since. From November 1998 until
April 2003, he was General Manager of Lishui Forasen Foodstuff Co., Ltd. Prior to that, from 1994 to 1997, he served as General
Manager of Lishui Jingning Huali, Co., Ltd. From 1990 to 1994, he served as a board member of the Lishui Farmer’s Economic
Committee. In addition to his efforts with our Company, Mr. Wang also manages the business operations of Forasen Group, a company
he owns with his wife and our director, Ms. Yefang Zhang. Forasen Group is a PRC company with several subsidiaries that are engaged
in a variety of businesses, including without limitation rubber trading, mushroom sales, biomass power generation, and marketing.
In addition, since February 2017, Mr. Wang has served as a director of Farmmi, Inc., another Nasdaq listed company since February
2018. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China in June 1990. He has been appointed
as a director because, as our founder, he has significant experience in leading and advising our Company and understands our industry.
Wangfeng Yan
was appointed as our Chief Operating Officer on March 1, 2018. Mr. Yan joined Tantech Holdings (Lishui) Co., Ltd. (formerly Zhejiang
Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd.) (“Tantech Bamboo”) as a member of the production staff in August 2010 and rose
to serve as the head of production managers. Prior to being appointed as Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Yan was in charge of production
management for Tantech Bamboo and Zhejiang Tantech Energy Tech Co., Ltd. (“Tantech Energy”). In these capacities, Mr.
Yan contributed to the “Dr. Charcoal” brand sales channel development. In June 2010, Mr. Yan earned a Bachelor’s
Degree in Engineering from Zhejiang Sci-tech University in Hangzhou.
Jing Jin
joined
Tantech Holdings in May 2016 and has since served as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining our company, Mr. Jin served as Senior
Adviser for AAIC (Shanghai) Co., Ltd responsible for M&A transaction deals from January 2014 – February 2016. In the
meantime, he also served as Project Advisor and Lecturer for Shanghai Golden Education Group. Prior to 2014, he worked in Can-Access
Int’l Financial Consultants Ltd, Vancouver as Senior Financial Adviser, responsible for small-medium enterprises’ financing
both in private and public. Mr. Jin graduated from Simon Fraser University in June 2008 in Burnaby, Canada with a Bachelor’s
degree of Business Administration. He has been a licensed CPA in the state of New Hampshire since 2014.
Yefang Zhang
has
been in leadership roles for over a dozen years. She then helped to found Zhejiang Forasen Group Co., Ltd in October 2002 and has
served as a Board member since then. Since July 2015, she has been Chairwoman and CEO of Farmmi, Inc., another Nasdaq listed company.
From 1997 until 2002, she worked as General Manager at Zhejiang Forasen Food and Stuff Co., Ltd. From 1994 to 1997, she served
as Vice GM of Lishui Jingning Huali Co., Ltd. From 1991 to 1994, she was a teacher at Wenzhou Huangtan Middle School. From 1990
to 1994, she served on the board of Lishui Farmer’s Economic Committee. In addition to her efforts with our Company, Ms.
Zhang also manages the business operations of Forasen Group, a company she owns with her husband and our director and Chief Executive
Officer, Mr. Zhengyu Wang. Forasen Group is a PRC company with several subsidiaries that are engaged in a variety of businesses,
including without limitation rubber trading, mushroom sales, biomass power generation, and marketing. She earned her Bachelor’s
Degree in Geography from Wenzhou Teacher’s College in July 1991. We have appointed Ms. Zhang to be a director due to her
strong understanding of our industry and business.
Wencai Pan
has been our director since 2014. He has served as the CFO of Shandong Xiangrui Pharmacy Co. Ltd., which was listed in the
US under SMSA Treemont Acquisition Corp. from 2011 through present. From 2007 through 2010, Mr. Pan was the China controller for
Aramex Express Logistics Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., a global logistics and transportation company from 2007 to 2010, as controller
for its China operations and was based out of Shanghai. During 2006, Mr. Pan had been employed as a consultant by the Centergate
Securities Bankruptcy Committee, which was set up by the China Securities Regulatory Commission, where he assisted on bankruptcy
audits on Centergate Securities Ltd. Co. Previously, Mr. Pan served as the finance manager for Shera International Limited, a technology
product development, production and distribution company, from 2004 until the end of 2005 and was based out of Shanghai. Mr. Pan
was employed as an internal auditor by Valley National Bank, located in Wayne, New Jersey, U.S., from 2003 to 2004. None of Mr.
Pan’s previous employers is a parent, subsidiary or other affiliate of the Company. Mr. Pan obtained a Masters in Professional
Accountancy from The University of Utah, in 2003. In 1998, Mr. Pan received a bachelor’s degree in Economics from The University
of International Business & Economics, Beijing, China. Mr. Pan passed the Chinese CPA exam in 1997 and passed the Uniform CPA
exam in the United States in 2002. We have chosen Mr. Pan to serve as a director because of his experience with US GAAP and with
United States compliance issues.
Hongdao Qian
has been our director since 2014. He has been a Professor on the faculty of the Guanghua Law School at Zhejiang University since
September 2005. His research, writing and teaching focuses on corporate governance, economic analysis of law and Western jurisprudence.
Prior to joining Guanghua Law School, Mr. Qian was a Professor at the Institute of Law, China Academy of Social Sciences; a Lecturer
in Economics at Peking University and a Prosecutor in the People’s Procuratorate of Zhejiang Province. Mr. Qian was a visiting
scholar at Waseda University in Japan, Stanford University in California and both Oxford and Cambridge Universities in England.
Since July 2017, he has been an independent director of Farmmi, Inc, another Nasdaq listed company. He currently serves as Vice
Chairman of the Chinese Society of Comparative Law, Executive Subeditor of the China Academic Yearbook and President of the China
Rule of Law Research Institute, where he has organized a team of scholars to create China’s first Rule of Law index using
empirical methods. Mr. Qian earned his bachelor of law from Jilin University in 1986, his master of law from North-West University
of Politics and Law in 1994 and his doctor of law from Peking University in 1997. We have chosen Mr. Qian to serve on our Board
of Directors because of his expertise in economics and law.
Shudong Wang
has been our director since 2014. He was the department director at the China National Bamboo Research Center from 1996
through his retirement in 2012. He earned his bachelor’s degree in forestry from Northeast Forestry University in Heilongjiang
in 1976. He once served as deputy director of Bamboo Branch of the Academic Committee of China Forestry. He has also served as
executive director of South-South Cooperation Association and the Center of China International Exchange. He is a science advisor
to the State Forestry Bureau. We selected Mr. Wang to serve on our Board of Directors because of his expertise in the bamboo industry
in China.
Executive
Compensation
Our compensation committee
approves our salary and benefit policies. Before our initial public offering, our board of directors determined the compensation
to be paid to our executive officers based on our financial and operating performance and prospects, and contributions made by
the officers’ to our success. Each of the named officers are measured by a series of performance criteria by the board of
directors, or the compensation committee on a yearly basis. Such criteria are set forth based on certain objective parameters such
as job characteristics, required professionalism, management skills, interpersonal skills, related experience, personal performance
and overall corporate performance.
The board of directors
makes an independent evaluation of appropriate compensation to key employees, with input from management. The board of directors
has oversight of executive compensation plans, policies and programs.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table
presents summary information regarding the total compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to each of the named executive officers
for services rendered to us for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
|
|
Fiscal
Year
|
|
|
Salary
($)
|
|
|
Bonus
($)
(1)
|
|
|
All Other
Compensation
($)
(2)
|
|
|
Total
($)
|
|
Zhengyu Wang
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
35,054
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
1,084
|
|
|
|
36,138
|
|
Chief Executive Officer
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
35,054
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
1,084
|
|
|
|
36,138
|
|
Jianming Wu
(3)
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
26,291
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
813
|
|
|
|
27,104
|
|
Chief Operating Officer
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
26,291
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
813
|
|
|
|
27,104
|
|
Jing Jin
(4)
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
48,000
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
48,000
|
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
29,000
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
29,000
|
|
Zaihua Chen
(5)
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
26,291
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
813
|
|
|
|
27,104
|
|
Chief Technical Officer
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
26,291
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
813
|
|
|
|
27,104
|
|
Qingsong Dong
(6)
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
17,527
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
542
|
|
|
|
18,069
|
|
Acting Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
17,527
|
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
542
|
|
|
|
18,069
|
|
(1)
|
No officer received a bonus in 2017.
|
(2)
|
Consists of social security payments required under Chinese law. Although we also reimburse the referenced individuals for reasonable expenses, such reimbursements do not, in the aggregate, exceed $10,000 for any individual in any year presented and are not considered perquisites because they are integrally and directly related to the performance of such recipients’ jobs.
|
|
(3)
|
Effective March 1, 2018,
Jianming Wu resigned as Chief Operating Officer. Wangfeng Yan was appointed as the Registrant’s new Chief Operating
Officer.
|
|
(4)
|
Mr. Jing Jin joined Tantech
Holdings Ltd. on May 3, 2016 as Chief Financial Officer by replacing Mr. Qingsong Dong.
|
|
(5)
|
Effective December 31,
2017, Zaihua Chen resigned as our Chief Technical Officer.
|
|
(6)
|
Mr. Jing Jin replaced Mr.
Qingsong Dong on May 3, 2016 as Chief Financial Officer. Effective March 1, 2018, Qingsong Dong resigned as our Treasurer.
|
Director Compensation
The following section
presents information regarding the compensation paid during fiscal 2017 to members of our Board of Directors who are not also our
employees (referred to herein as “Non-Employee Directors”). As of December 31, 2017, we had four such directors, Ms.
Yefang Zhang, Mr. Wencai Pan, Mr. Shudong Wang and Mr. Hongdao Qian.
We may also provide
stock, option or other equity-based incentives to our directors for their service. We also plan to reimburse our directors for
any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them in connection with their services provided in such capacity.
The following table presents
information regarding the compensation of our non-employee directors for fiscal 2017. Compensation for our Chief Executive Officer,
Mr. Zhengyu Wang, is reflected above in the Summary Compensation Table rather than below.
Name
|
|
Fees earned
or paid
in cash
($)
|
|
|
Stock
Awards
($)
|
|
|
Option
Awards
($)
|
|
|
Non-equity
Incentive
Plan Compensation
($)
|
|
|
Changes in Pension
Value and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
($)
|
|
|
All other
Compensation
($)
|
|
|
Total
($)
|
|
Yefang Zhang
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Wencai Pan
|
|
$
|
10,800
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
1,200
|
|
|
$
|
12,000
|
|
Shudong Wang
|
|
$
|
7,835
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
1,200
|
|
|
$
|
9,035
|
|
Hongdao Qian
|
|
$
|
7,835
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
1,200
|
|
|
$
|
9,035
|
|
See information provided
in response to Item 6.A. above as to the current directors.
Election of Officers
Our executive officers are
elected by, and serve at the discretion of, our board of directors. Our CEO and chairman of the Board of Directors, Zhengyu Wang
is married to one of our other directors, Yefang Zhang. Other than this relationship, there are no familial relationships among
any members of the Board of Directors.
Board of Directors and Board Committees
Our board of directors currently
consists of five (5) directors. A majority of our Board of Directors is independent, as such term is defined by The NASDAQ Capital
Market.
A director may vote in respect
of any contract or transaction in which he is interested, provided, however that the nature of the interest of any director in
any such contract or transaction shall be disclosed by him at or prior to its consideration and any vote on that matter. A general
notice or disclosure to the directors or otherwise contained in the minutes of a meeting or a written resolution of the directors
or any committee thereof of the nature of a director’s interest shall be sufficient disclosure and after such general notice
it shall not be necessary to give special notice relating to any particular transaction. A director may be counted for a quorum
upon a motion in respect of any contract or arrangement which he shall make with our company, or in which he is so interested and
may vote on such motion.
Mr. Zhengyu Wang currently
holds both the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board. These two positions have not been consolidated into
one position; Mr. Wang simply holds both positions at this time. We do not have a lead independent director, and we do not anticipate
having a lead independent director because we will encourage our independent directors to freely voice their opinions on a relatively
small company board. We believe this leadership structure is appropriate because we are a relatively small company listed on a
public exchange; as such we deem it appropriate to be able to benefit from the guidance of Mr. Wang as both our principal executive
officer and Chair of the Board. Our Board of Directors plays a key role in our risk oversight. The Board of Directors makes all
relevant Company decisions. As a smaller company with a small board of directors, we believe it is appropriate to have the involvement
and input of all of our directors in risk oversight matters.
Board Committees
We have established three standing committees
under the board: the audit committee, the compensation committee and the nominating committee. The audit committee is responsible
for overseeing the accounting and financial reporting processes of our company and audits of the financial statements of our company,
including the appointment, compensation and oversight of the work of our independent auditors. The compensation committee of the
board of directors reviews and makes recommendations to the board regarding our compensation policies for our officers and all
forms of compensation, and also administers our incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans (but our board will retain
the authority to interpret those plans). The nominating committee of the board of directors is responsible for the assessment of
the performance of the board, considering and making recommendations to the board with respect to the nominations or elections
of directors and other governance issues. The nominating committee considers diversity of opinion and experience when nominating
directors.
Wencai Pan qualifies as
an audit committee financial expert and is the chair of the audit committee. Shudang Wang is the chair of the compensation committee.
Hongdao Qian is the chair of the nominating committee. Wencai Pan, Shudong Wang and Hongdao Qian serve on all three committees,
and each is an independent director.
Duties of Directors
Under British Virgin Islands
law, our directors have a duty to act honestly, in good faith and with a view to our best interests. Our directors also have a
duty to exercise the care, diligence and skills that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances. In
fulfilling their duty of care to us, our directors must ensure compliance with our amended and restated memorandum and articles
of association. We have the right to seek damages if a duty owed by our directors is breached.
The functions and powers
of our board of directors include, among others:
|
·
|
appointing officers and determining the term of office of the officers;
|
|
·
|
authorizing the payment of donations to religious, charitable, public or other bodies, clubs, funds or associations as deemed advisable;
|
|
·
|
exercising the borrowing powers of the company and mortgaging the property of the company;
|
|
·
|
executing checks, promissory notes and other negotiable instruments on behalf of the company; and
|
|
·
|
maintaining or registering a register of mortgages, charges or other encumbrances of the company.
|
Interested Transactions
A director may vote, attend
a board meeting or sign a document on our behalf with respect to any contract or transaction in which he or she is interested.
We require directors to promptly disclose the interest to all other directors after becoming aware of the fact that he or she is
interested in a transaction we have entered into or are to enter into. A general notice or disclosure to the board or otherwise
contained in the minutes of a meeting or a written resolution of the board or any committee of the board that a director is a shareholder,
director, officer or trustee of any specified firm or company and is to be regarded as interested in any transaction with such
firm or company will be sufficient disclosure, and, after such general notice, it will not be necessary to give special notice
relating to any particular transaction.
Remuneration and Borrowing
The directors may receive
such remuneration as our board of directors may determine from time to time. Each director is entitled to be repaid or prepaid
all traveling, hotel and incidental expenses reasonably incurred or expected to be incurred in attending meetings of our board
of directors or committees of our board of directors or shareholder meetings or otherwise in connection with the discharge of his
or her duties as a director. The compensation committee will assist the directors in reviewing and approving the compensation structure
for the directors. Our board of directors may exercise all the powers of the company to borrow money and to mortgage or charge
our undertakings and property or any part thereof, to issue debentures, debenture stock and other securities whenever money is
borrowed or as security for any debt, liability or obligation of the company or of any third party.
Qualification
There are no membership
qualifications for directors. Further, there are no share ownership qualifications for directors unless so fixed by us in a general
meeting. There are no other arrangements or understandings pursuant to which our directors are selected or nominated.
Director Compensation
All directors hold office
until the next annual meeting of shareholders at which directors are re-elected or until their successors have been duly elected
and qualified. Our CEO, Zhengyu Wang is married to our Director, Yefang Zhang. Officers are elected by and serve at the discretion
of the Board of Directors. Employee directors do not receive any compensation for their services. Non-employee directors are entitled
to receive up to $30,000 per year for serving as directors and may receive incentive security grants from our company. In addition,
non-employee directors are entitled to receive reimbursement of their actual travel expenses for each Board of Directors meeting
attended.
Limitation of Director and Officer Liability
Under British Virgin Islands
law, each of our directors and officers, in performing his or her functions, is required to act honestly and in good faith with
a view to our best interests and exercise the care, diligence and skill that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in comparable
circumstances. British Virgin Islands law does not limit the extent to which a company’s memorandum and articles of association
may provide for indemnification of officers and directors, except to the extent any such provision may be held by the British Virgin
Islands courts to be contrary to public policy, such as to provide indemnification against civil fraud or the consequences of committing
a crime.
Under our memorandum and
articles of association, we may indemnify our directors, officers and liquidators against all expenses, including legal fees, and
against all judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement and reasonably incurred in connection with civil, criminal, administrative
or investigative proceedings to which they are party or are threatened to be made a party by reason of their acting as our director,
officer or liquidator. To be entitled to indemnification, these persons must have acted honestly and in good faith with a view
to the best interest of the company and, in the case of criminal proceedings, they must have had no reasonable cause to believe
their conduct was unlawful. Such limitation of liability does not affect the availability of equitable remedies such as injunctive
relief or rescission. These provisions will not limit the liability of directors under United States federal securities laws.
We may indemnify any of
our directors or anyone serving at our request as a director of another entity against all expenses, including legal fees, and
against all judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement and reasonably incurred in connection with legal, administrative or
investigative proceedings. We may only indemnify a director if he or she acted honestly and in good faith with the view to our
best interests and, in the case of criminal proceedings, the director had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct
was unlawful. The decision of our board of directors as to whether the director acted honestly and in good faith with a view to
our best interests and as to whether the director had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful, is in
the absence of fraud sufficient for the purposes of indemnification, unless a question of law is involved. The termination of any
proceedings by any judgment, order, settlement, conviction or the entry of no plea does not, by itself, create a presumption that
a director did not act honestly and in good faith and with a view to our best interests or that the director had reasonable cause
to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful. If a director to be indemnified has been successful in defense of any proceedings
referred to above, the director is entitled to be indemnified against all expenses, including legal fees, and against all judgments,
fines and amounts paid in settlement and reasonably incurred by the director or officer in connection with the proceedings.
We may purchase and maintain
insurance in relation to any of our directors or officers against any liability asserted against the directors or officers and
incurred by the directors or officers in that capacity, whether or not we have or would have had the power to indemnify the directors
or officers against the liability as provided in our amended and restated memorandum and articles of association.
Insofar as indemnification
for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted for our directors, officers or persons controlling our company
under the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy
as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
To the best of our knowledge,
none of our directors or officers has been convicted in a criminal proceeding, excluding traffic violations or similar misdemeanors,
nor has any been a party to any judicial or administrative proceeding during the past five years that resulted in a judgment, decree
or final order enjoining the person from future violations of, or prohibiting activities subject to, federal or state securities
laws, or a finding of any violation of federal or state securities laws, except for matters that were dismissed without sanction
or settlement. Except as set forth in our discussion below in “Related Party Transactions,” our directors and officers
have not been involved in any transactions with us or any of our affiliates or associates which are required to be disclosed pursuant
to the rules and regulations of the SEC.
Our
Employees
As of April 15, 2018, we
employ a total of 134 full-time employees in the following functions:
Lishui & Hangzhou
|
|
Number of Employees
|
|
Department
|
|
April 15,
2018
|
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
December 31,
2015
|
|
Senior Management
|
|
|
4
|
|
|
|
5
|
|
|
|
5
|
|
|
|
6
|
|
Human Resource & Administration
|
|
|
14
|
|
|
|
14
|
|
|
|
23
|
|
|
|
23
|
|
Finance
|
|
|
10
|
|
|
|
12
|
|
|
|
12
|
|
|
|
12
|
|
Research & Development
|
|
|
3
|
|
|
|
3
|
|
|
|
14
|
|
|
|
14
|
|
Production & Procurement
|
|
|
43
|
|
|
|
42
|
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
|
83
|
|
Sales & Marketing
|
|
|
7
|
|
|
|
7
|
|
|
|
19
|
|
|
|
29
|
|
Total
|
|
|
81
|
|
|
|
83
|
|
|
|
130
|
|
|
|
167
|
|
Below is information specifically for our Suzhou E-Motors subsidiary.
Suzhou E-Motors
|
|
Number of Employees
|
|
Department
|
|
April 15,
2018
|
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
Senior Management
|
|
|
4
|
|
|
|
4
|
|
Human Resource & Administration
|
|
|
20
|
|
|
|
20
|
|
Finance
|
|
|
10
|
|
|
|
10
|
|
Research & Development
|
|
|
3
|
|
|
|
3
|
|
Production & Procurement
|
|
|
25
|
|
|
|
25
|
|
Sales & Marketing
|
|
|
3
|
|
|
|
3
|
|
Total
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
53
|
|
Our employees are not represented
by a labor organization or covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We have not experienced any work stoppages.
We are required under PRC
law to make contributions to employee benefit plans at specified percentages of our after-tax profit. In addition, we are required
by PRC law to cover employees in China with various types of social insurance. In 2017 and 2016, we contributed approximately $123,000
and $110,000, respectively, to the employee benefit plans and social insurance. The effect on our liquidity by the payments for
these contributions is immaterial. We believe that we are in material compliance with the relevant PRC employment laws.
Employment Agreements
Each employee is required
to enter into an employment agreement. Accordingly, all of our employees, including management, have executed their employment
agreements. Our employment agreements with our executives provide the amount of each executive officer’s salary and establish
their eligibility to receive a bonus.
Our employment agreements
with our executive officers generally provide for a salary to be paid monthly. The agreements also provide that executive officers
are to work full time for our company and are entitled to all legal holidays as well as other paid leave in accordance with PRC
laws and regulations and our internal work policies. The employment agreements also provide that we will pay for all mandatory
social security programs for our executive officers in accordance with PRC regulations. Our executive officers are subject to keep
trade secrets confidential. In addition, our employment agreements with our executive officers prevent them from rendering services
for our competitors for so long as they are employed.
Other than the salary, bonuses,
equity grants and necessary social benefits required by the government, which are defined in the employment agreements, we currently
do not provide other benefits to the officers. Our executive officers are not entitled to severance payments upon the termination
of their employment agreement or following a change in control.
We have not provided retirement
benefits (other than a state pension scheme in which all of our employees in China participate) or severance or change of control
benefits to our named executive officers.
Under Chinese law, we may
terminate an employment agreement without penalty by providing the employee thirty days’ prior written notice or one month’s
wages in lieu of notice if the employee is incompetent or remains incompetent after training or adjustment of the employee’s
position in other limited cases. If we wish to terminate an employment agreement in the absence of cause, then we are obligated
to pay the employee one month’s salary for each year we have employed the employee. We are, however, permitted to terminate
an employee for cause without penalty to our company, where the employee has committed a crime or the employee’s actions
or inactions have resulted in a material adverse effect to us.
Zhengyu Wang
We entered into an employment
agreement with our chief executive officer, Mr. Zhengyu Wang, effective January 1, 2011. Under the terms of Mr. Wang’s employment,
Mr. Wang is entitled to the following:
|
·
|
Base compensation of approximately RMB 240,000 per year.
|
|
·
|
Reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred by Mr. Wang.
|
Mr. Wang’s employment
has no expiration date but may be terminated at any time by either party upon presentation of 30 days’ prior notice or immediately
for cause.
Wangfeng Yan
We entered into an
employment agreement with our Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Wangfeng Yan, effective March 1, 2018. Under the terms of that employment
agreement, Mr. Yan is entitled to the following:
|
·
|
Base compensation of RMB 180,000 payable in 12 equal monthly installments of RMB 15,000 each.
|
|
·
|
Reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred by Mr. Yan.
|
Mr. Yan’s
employment agreement is scheduled to expire on February 28, 2021.
Jing Jin
We entered into an employment
agreement with our chief financial officer, Mr. Jing Jin, effective May 3, 2016. Under the terms of that employment agreement,
Mr. Jin is entitled to the following:
|
·
|
Base compensation of $48,000 payable in 12 equal monthly installments of $4,000 each.
|
|
·
|
Reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred by Mr. Jin.
|
Mr. Jin’s employment
agreement is scheduled to expire on April 13, 2019. Mr. Jin’s agreement may be terminated at any time by either party upon
presentation of 30 days’ prior notice or immediately for cause.
The following table sets
forth information with respect to beneficial ownership of our common shares as of April 15, 2018 by:
|
·
|
Each of our directors and named executive officers; and
|
|
·
|
All directors and named executive officers as a group.
|
The number and percentage
of common shares beneficially owned are based on 28,703,242 common shares outstanding as of April 15, 2018. Information with respect
to beneficial ownership has been furnished by each director, officer or beneficial owner of 5% or more of our common shares. Beneficial
ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally requires that such person have voting or investment
power with respect to securities. In computing the number of common shares beneficially owned by a person listed below and the
percentage ownership of such person, common shares underlying options, warrants or convertible securities held by each such person
that are exercisable or convertible within 60 days of April 15, 2018 are deemed outstanding, but are not deemed outstanding for
computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Except as otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table, or as required
by applicable community property laws, all persons listed have sole voting and investment power for all common shares shown as
beneficially owned by them. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes, the address for each principal shareholder is in the care
of our Company at Tantech Holdings (Lishui) Co., Ltd., No. 10 Cen Shan Road, Shuige Industrial Zone, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province
323000, People’s Republic of China. As of the date of the Annual report, we have one (1) shareholder of record.
Named Executive Officers and Directors
|
|
Amount of Beneficial
Ownership(1)
|
|
|
Percentage
Ownership(2)
|
|
Directors and Named Executive Officers:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zhengyu Wang
(2)
|
|
|
12,780,000
|
|
|
|
44.525
|
%
|
Jianming Wu
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
Qingsong Dong
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
Yefang Zhang
(2)
|
|
|
12,780,000
|
|
|
|
44.525
|
%
|
Wencai Pan
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
Shudong Wang
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
Hongdao Qian
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
Jing Jin
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
All directors and executive officers as a group (eight (8) persons)
|
|
|
—
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
%
|
|
(1)
|
Beneficial ownership is determined
in accordance with the rules of the SEC and includes voting or investment power with respect to the common shares.
|
|
(2)
|
The number of our common
shares outstanding used in calculating the percentage for each listed person includes the common shares underlying options held
by such person to the extent such options are exercisable within 60 days of the date hereof.
|
Options
Incentive Securities Pool
We have established a pool
for shares and share options for our employees. As of the date of this report, this pool contain shares and options to purchase
2,160,000 of our common shares, equal to 10% of the number of common shares outstanding as of the public offering.
Any options granted
will vest at a rate of 20% per year for five years and have a per share exercise price equal to the fair market value of one of
our common shares on the date of grant. We expect to grant shares and/or options under this pool to certain employees. We have
not yet determined the recipients of any such grants.
|
Item 7.
|
Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
|
The following table sets
forth information with respect to beneficial ownership of our common shares as of April 15, 2018 by:
|
·
|
Each person who is known by us to beneficially own 5% or more of our outstanding common shares.
|
The number and percentage
of common shares beneficially owned are based on 28,703,242 common shares outstanding as of April 15, 2018. Information with respect
to beneficial ownership has been furnished by each director, officer or beneficial owner of 5% or more of our common shares. Beneficial
ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally requires that such person have voting or investment
power with respect to securities. In computing the number of common shares beneficially owned by a person listed below and the
percentage ownership of such person, common shares underlying options, warrants or convertible securities held by each such person
that are exercisable or convertible within 60 days of March 31, 2017 are deemed outstanding, but are not deemed outstanding for
computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Except as otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table, or as required
by applicable community property laws, all persons listed have sole voting and investment power for all common shares shown as
beneficially owned by them. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes, the address for each principal shareholder is in the care
of our Company at Tantech Holdings (Lishui) Co., Ltd., No. 10 Cen Shan Road, Shuige Industrial Zone, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province
323000, People’s Republic of China. As of the date of the annual report, we have one (1) shareholder of record.
Shareholders
|
|
Amount of Beneficial
Ownership(1)
|
|
|
Percentage
Ownership(2)
|
|
Tanbsok Group Ltd
(2)
|
|
|
12,780,000
|
|
|
|
44.525
|
%
|
|
(1)
|
Beneficial ownership is determined
in accordance with the rules of the SEC and includes voting or investment power with respect to the common shares.
|
|
(2)
|
Tanbsok Group Ltd holds one
hundred percent of our issued and outstanding shares prior to our initial public offering. The sole shareholder of Tanbsok Group
Ltd is Ms. Yefang Zhang, who is a director of our company and the spouse of our Chief Executive Officer and founder, Mr. Zhengyu
Wang. By virtue of this relationship, Mr. Wang may be deemed to share beneficial ownership of the shares of our company held by
Tanbsok Group Ltd with Ms. Zhang.
|
B.
|
Related party transactions
|
In addition to the executive
officer and director compensation arrangements discussed in “Executive Compensation,” below we describe transactions
since January 1, 2013, to which we have been a participant, in which the amount involved in the transactions is material to us
or the related party.
Since the beginning of 2013,
we have had transactions with the following related parties:
|
·
|
LiShui JiuAnJu Commercial Trade Co., Ltd.
|
|
·
|
Zhejiang Forasen Group Co., Ltd.
|
|
·
|
Zhejiang Forasen Food and Stuff Co., Ltd.
|
|
·
|
Hangzhou Forasen E-Commerce Co., Ltd.
|
|
·
|
Hong Kong Clean Energy Ltd.
|
Summary of Status of Related Party Transactions
Given the number of related
transactions, we believe it is helpful to provide an overview of the largest amount outstanding for each of the related party
transactions described here during the periods covered that is material to us or the related party. For more details, please refer
to note 15 of the financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. As described in more details below, as
of the date of this filing, there is no related party balance outstanding.
As to all related party
transactions that are loans, we disclose them below without regard to whether such loans is material. All such related party loans
carried no interest and were repayable upon demand, with no periodic payments required. The other details regarding such loans
are described for each such loan.
These related parties fall
within two categories: those who are shareholders, officers and directors of THL and/or Tantech Bamboo, and those who are related
to Zhejiang Forasen Group Co., Ltd. All amounts described in this section are unsecured, interest-free and due on demand.
Shareholders, Officers, Directors and Employees
of THL and Tantech Bamboo
Before the IPO, THL was
owned entirely by Tanbsok Group Ltd., the sole shareholder of which is Ms. Yefang Zhang, the spouse of our Chief Executive Officer
and the Chairman of our Board of Directors, Mr. Zhengyu Wang.
THL owns 100% of USCNHK,
and USCNHK owns 100% of Lishui Tantech which in turn owns 100% of Tantech Bamboo.
In June 24, 2016, Lishui
Tantech has entered into an equity purchase agreement with the previous holders of 5% interest of Tantech Bamboo, to purchase the
5% interest of Tantech Bamboo for 1,018,935 shares of THL. The purchase was completed in December 2016.
The largest outstanding
amount Zhengyu Wang owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil, nil and approximately RMB 1.5 million
(approximately $245,000), respectively, representing loans made to Mr. Wang for his business related expenses. As of December
31, 2013, all such amounts have been repaid. The largest outstanding amount our company owed Mr. Wang in the year ended December
31, 2014 was RMB 37,870 (equivalent to $6,169), representing payments made by Mr. Wang on the company’s behalf. As of December
31, 2014, such amount has been reimbursed to Mr. Wang.
The largest outstanding
amount Yefang Zhang owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil, nil and approximately RMB 2.7 million
(approximately $430,000), respectively, representing loans made to Ms. Zhang for her business related expenses. As of December
31, 2013, all such amounts have been repaid.
The largest outstanding amount Wangfeng Yan owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015,
2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil, nil and approximately RMB 576,000 (approximately $93,000) ,respectively, representing loans made
to Mr. Yan for his business related expenses. As of December 31, 2013, all such amounts have been repaid.
Lishui JiuAnJu Commercial Trade Co., Ltd.
Wangfeng Yan and Dexian
Zhang (Yefang Zhang’s brother) each own 50% of the equity of Lishui JiuAnJu Commercial Trade Co., Ltd. (“LJC”).
Although LJC’s name shares “JiuAnJu” in common with a third-party debtor, ZheJiang JiuAnJu Environment Protection
Co., Ltd., this entity is unrelated to LJC or its shareholders. Prior to September 11, 2011, LJC was an unrelated party owned by
Yonghong Wu. At that time, LJC was a customer of our company and distributed our products for sale. Although the terms of such
sales were generally interest-free 60 days net payment, LJC became delinquent in its payments to our company and accrued a significant
account payable to our company. In order to protect our company from the risk of default by LJC, Zhengyu Wang personally loaned
Mr. Zhang and Mr. Yan RMB 10 million to purchase all of the equity of LJC from Ms. Wu and assume the liabilities of LJC. In the
event Mr. Zhang and Mr. Yan fail to repay Mr. Wang upon demand, Mr. Wang has the right to obtain ownership of LJC.
The largest outstanding
amount LJC owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil, nil and approximately RMB 44.0 million (approximately
$7.1 million), respectively, representing trade accounts receivable for sales made to LJC by our company and further loans from
our company to LJC for its operational needs. As of December 31, 2017, all such amounts have been repaid.
Forasen Companies
Mr. Zhengyu Wang and Ms.
Yefang Zhang each own 50% of the equity of Zhejiang Forasen Group Co., Ltd. (“Forasen Group”). Moreover, 95% of Tantech
Bamboo was previously owned by Forasen Group, rather than USCNHK. Forasen Group owns part of the equity of Zhejiang Forasen Food
and Stuff Co., Ltd. (“ZFF”) and Forasen Group previously owned all of the equity of Hangzhou Forasen E-Commerce Co.,
Ltd. (“HFE”).
The largest outstanding
amount Forasen Group owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil, nil, approximately RMB 21.0 million
(approximately $3.4 million) and approximately RMB 83.8 million (approximately $13.6 million), respectively, representing loans
made to support the rubber and mushroom trading activities of Forasen Group. As of December 31, 2017, all such amounts have been
repaid. In the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, we purchased $839,059 and $3,622,905, respectively in raw materials from
Forasen Group based on market terms to use in our normal production process. The raw materials purchased from Forasen Group were
primarily charcoal powder used in our EDLC carbon production, and market terms were set at prevailing commodity rates. Purchases
were made on credit, without an interest rate and were due on demand.
The largest outstanding
amount ZFF owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil, nil and approximately RMB 19.0 million (approximately
$3.1 million), respectively, representing loans made to support the rubber and mushroom trading activities of Forasen Group. We
understand that ZFF made such funds available to Forasen Group. As of December 31, 2017, all such amounts have been repaid.
The largest outstanding
amount HFE owed our company in 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was nil, nil, nil and RMB 169,192, respectively, representing loans
made to pay for working capital needs of HFE. As of December 31, 2017, all such amounts have been repaid.
Other Related Parties
Hong Kong Clean Energy Ltd.
(“HKCE”) is a company registered in Hong Kong and is wholly owned by Mr. Zhengyu Wang. Before December 2014, our company
owed HKCE $120,000, representing the payment made by HKCE on the company’s behalf.
Settlement of Related Party Balances
On March 20, 2013, USCNHK
paid RMB 115,520,000 (approximately $18.5 million) to Forasen Group for the acquisition of Tantech Bamboo. Among the amount being
paid, RMB 37,635,136 (equivalent of approximately $6.1 million) was borrowed from Mr. Zhengyu Wang. On September 20, 2013, USCNHK,
Mr. Wang and Forasen Group reached an agreement in which Mr. Wang forgave the borrowing from USCNHK and the Company agreed to
offset such borrowing against the receivables from Forasen Group for RMB 37,635,136 (equivalent of approximately $6.1 million).
The settlement decreased the Company’s “due from related parties” balances by approximately $6.1 million and
decreased its additional paid-in capital account by the same amount.
As of December 31, 2014,
the Company settled all related party balances. As of the date of this filing, no related party balances remain outstanding.
Future Related Party Transactions
Our Corporate Governance
Committee of our Board of Directors (which consists solely of independent directors) will approve all future related party transactions.
|
C.
|
Interests of experts and counsel
|
Not applicable for
annual reports on Form 20-F.
|
Item 8.
|
Financial Information
|
See information provided
in response to Item 18 below.
We incorporate by reference
in the Registration Statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333- 213240) our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016,
and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the
years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2017, which appears in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
|
Item 9.
|
The Offer and Listing.
|
|
A.
|
Offer and listing details
|
Our common shares have been
listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market since March 24, 2015 under the symbol “TANH.” The table below shows, for the periods
indicated, the high and low market prices for our shares.
|
|
Market Price Per Share
|
|
|
|
High
|
|
|
Low
|
|
Annually:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2015
|
|
$
|
31.09
|
|
|
$
|
3.12
|
|
2016
|
|
$
|
5.89
|
|
|
$
|
1.88
|
|
2017
|
|
$
|
4.37
|
|
|
$
|
1.15
|
|
Quarterly:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
$
|
5.89
|
|
|
$
|
4.36
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
$
|
5.69
|
|
|
$
|
3.23
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
$
|
4.36
|
|
|
$
|
1.88
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
$
|
2.63
|
|
|
$
|
2.00
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
$
|
2.18
|
|
|
$
|
1.45
|
|
Second Quarter
|
|
$
|
2.88
|
|
|
$
|
1.15
|
|
Third Quarter
|
|
$
|
4.37
|
|
|
$
|
2.39
|
|
Fourth Quarter
|
|
$
|
3.16
|
|
|
$
|
2.58
|
|
2018
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter
|
|
$
|
2.80
|
|
|
$
|
2.45
|
|
Monthly:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December
|
|
$
|
2.92
|
|
|
$
|
2.58
|
|
2018 (through May 9, 2018)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
January
|
|
$
|
2.72
|
|
|
$
|
2.58
|
|
February
|
|
$
|
2.80
|
|
|
$
|
2.45
|
|
March
|
|
$
|
2.80
|
|
|
$
|
2.57
|
|
April
|
|
$
|
3.18
|
|
|
$
|
2.70
|
|
May (through May 9, 2018)
|
|
$
|
3.25
|
|
|
$
|
2.94
|
|
Not applicable for annual
reports on Form 20-F.
Our common shares are listed
on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “TANH.”
Not applicable for annual
reports on Form 20-F.
Not applicable for annual
reports on Form 20-F.
Not applicable for annual
reports on Form 20-F.
|
Item 10.
|
Additional Information.
|
Not applicable for annual
reports on Form 20-F.
|
B.
|
Memorandum and articles of association
|
We incorporate by reference
the description of our Memorandum and Articles of Association, as currently in effect in the British Virgin Islands, set forth
in our registration statement on Form F-1, declared effective on March 18, 2015 (File No. 333-198788).
Other than as otherwise
disclosed previously, we did not have any other materials contracts.
Foreign Currency Exchange
The principal regulations
governing foreign currency exchange in China are the Foreign Exchange Administration Regulations. Under the PRC foreign exchange
regulations, payments of current account items, such as profit distributions and trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions,
may be made in foreign currencies without prior approval from SAFE by complying with certain procedural requirements. By contrast,
approval from or registration with appropriate government authorities is required where RMB is to be converted into foreign currency
and remitted out of China to pay capital expenses such as the repayment of foreign currency-denominated loans or foreign currency
is to be remitted into China under the capital account, such as a capital increase or foreign currency loans to our PRC subsidiaries.
In August 2008, SAFE issued
the Circular on the Relevant Operating Issues Concerning the Improvement of the Administration of the Payment and Settlement of
Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, or SAFE Circular 142, regulating the conversion by a foreign-invested
enterprise of foreign currency-registered capital into RMB by restricting how the converted RMB may be used. In addition, SAFE
promulgated Circular 45 on November 9, 2011 in order to clarify the application of SAFE Circular 142. Under SAFE Circular 142 and
Circular 45, the RMB capital converted from foreign currency registered capital of a foreign-invested enterprise may only be used
for purposes within the business scope approved by the applicable government authority and may not be used for equity investments
within the PRC. In addition, SAFE strengthened its oversight of the flow and use of the RMB capital converted from foreign currency
registered capital of foreign-invested enterprises. The use of such RMB capital may not be changed without SAFE’s approval,
and such RMB capital may not in any case be used to repay RMB loans if the proceeds of such loans have not been used.
In November 2012, SAFE promulgated
the Circular of Further Improving and Adjusting Foreign Exchange Administration Policies on Foreign Direct Investment, which substantially
amends and simplifies the current foreign exchange procedure. Pursuant to this circular, the opening of various special purpose
foreign exchange accounts, such as pre-establishment expenses accounts, foreign exchange capital accounts and guarantee accounts,
the reinvestment of RMB proceeds by foreign investors in the PRC, and remittance of foreign exchange profits and dividends by a
foreign-invested enterprise to its foreign shareholders no longer require the approval or verification of SAFE, and multiple capital
accounts for the same entity may be opened in different provinces, which was not possible previously. In addition, SAFE promulgated
the Circular on Printing and Distributing the Provisions on Foreign Exchange Administration over Domestic Direct Investment by
Foreign Investors and the Supporting Documents in May 2013, which specifies that the administration by SAFE or its local branches
over direct investment by foreign investors in the PRC shall be conducted by way of registration and banks shall process foreign
exchange business relating to the direct investment in the PRC based on the registration information provided by SAFE and its branches.
We typically do not need
to use our offshore foreign currency to fund our PRC operations. In the event we need to do so, we will apply to obtain the relevant
approvals of SAFE and other PRC government authorities as necessary.
SAFE Circular 37
In July 2014, SAFE issued
SAFE Circular 37, which supersedes SAFE Circular 75, and requires that PRC citizens or residents must register with the relevant
local SAFE branch before making capital contribution to any offshore entity directly established or indirectly controlled by that
PRC citizen or resident for the purpose of investment or financing and with onshore or offshore assets or equity interests legally
owned by that PRC citizen or resident. In addition, the SAFE registrations are required to be updated with local SAFE branch with
respect to that offshore special purpose company in connection with the change of its basic information, such as its company name,
business term, shareholding by individual PRC citizens or residents, merger, or division and, with respect to the individual PRC
citizens or residents in case of any increases or decreases of capital in that offshore special purpose company, or share transfers
or swaps by the individual PRC citizens or residents.
Regulation of Dividend Distribution
The principal laws, rules
and regulations governing dividend distribution by foreign-invested enterprises in the PRC are the Company Law of the PRC, as amended,
the Wholly Foreign-owned Enterprise Law and its implementation regulations and the Equity Joint Venture Law and its implementation
regulations. Under these laws, rules and regulations, foreign-invested enterprises may pay dividends only out of their accumulated
profit, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Both PRC domestic companies and wholly-foreign
owned PRC enterprises are required to set aside as general reserves at least 10% of their after-tax profit, until the cumulative
amount of such reserves reaches 50% of their registered capital. A PRC company is not permitted to distribute any profits until
any losses from prior fiscal years have been offset. Profits retained from prior fiscal years may be distributed together with
distributable profits from the current fiscal year.
The following sets forth
the material British Virgin Islands, Chinese and U.S. federal income tax consequences related to an investment in our common shares.
It is directed to U.S. Holders (as defined below) of our common shares and is based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof
in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change. This description does not deal with all possible
tax consequences relating to an investment in our common shares, such as the tax consequences under state, local and other tax
laws.
The following brief description
applies only to U.S. Holders (defined below) that hold common shares as capital assets and that have the U.S. dollar as their functional
currency. This brief description is based on the tax laws of the United States in effect as of the date of this annual report and
on U.S. Treasury regulations in effect or, in some cases, proposed, as of the date of this annual report, as well as judicial and
administrative interpretations thereof available on or before such date. All of the foregoing authorities are subject to change,
which change could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below.
The brief description below
of the U.S. federal income tax consequences to “U.S. Holders” will apply to you if you are a beneficial owner of shares
and you are, for U.S. federal income tax purposes,
|
·
|
an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;
|
|
·
|
a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;
|
|
·
|
an estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or
|
|
·
|
a trust that (1) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and the control of one or more U.S. persons for all substantial decisions or (2) has a valid election in effect under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.
|
WE URGE POTENTIAL PURCHASERS OF OUR SHARES
TO CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS CONCERNING THE U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND NON-U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES OF PURCHASING, OWNING
AND DISPOSING OF OUR SHARES.
People’s Republic of China Enterprise
Taxation
The following brief description
of Chinese enterprise laws is designed to highlight the enterprise-level taxation on our earnings, which will affect the amount
of dividends, if any, we are ultimately able to pay to our shareholders. Our company pays a 17% value added tax and EIT rates of
15% for Tantech Bamboo and Tantech Energy and 25% for Tantech Charcoal. Tantech Bamboo and Tantech Energy pay a lower EIT rate
than Tantech Charcoal because Tantech Bamboo and Tantech Energy have been certified as high technology companies and thus enjoy
a preferable rate. If this favorable EIT rate were to be terminated or Tantech Bamboo or Tantech Energy were to fail to qualify
to receive these rates, they would be subject to taxation at the standard EIT rate of 25% for enterprise income taxes, unless we
were otherwise to qualify for a decreased tax rate.
British Virgin Islands Taxation
Under the BVI Act as currently
in effect, a holder of common shares who is not a resident of the British Virgin Islands is exempt from British Virgin Islands
income tax on dividends paid with respect to the common shares and all holders of common shares are not liable to the British Virgin
Islands for income tax on gains realized during that year on sale or disposal of such shares. The British Virgin Islands does not
impose a withholding tax on dividends paid by a company incorporated or re-registered under the BVI Act.
There are no capital gains,
gift or inheritance taxes levied by the British Virgin Islands on companies incorporated or re-registered under the BVI Act. In
addition, shares of companies incorporated or re-registered under the BVI Act are not subject to transfer taxes, stamp duties or
similar charges.
There is no income tax treaty
or convention currently in effect between the United States and the British Virgin Islands or between China and the British Virgin
Islands.
United States Federal Income Taxation
The following does not address
the tax consequences to any particular investor or to persons in special tax situations such as:
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financial institutions;
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regulated investment companies;
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real estate investment trusts;
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traders that elect to mark-to-market;
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persons liable for alternative minimum tax;
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persons holding our common shares as part of a straddle, hedging, conversion or integrated transaction;
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persons that actually or constructively own 10% or more of our voting shares;
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persons who acquired our common shares pursuant to the exercise of any employee share option or otherwise as consideration; or
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persons holding our common shares through partnerships or other pass-through entities.
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Prospective purchasers are
urged to consult their tax advisors about the application of the U.S. Federal tax rules to their particular circumstances as well
as the state, local, foreign and other tax consequences to them of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common shares.
Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions
on our Common Shares
Subject to the passive foreign
investment company rules discussed below, the gross amount of distributions made by us to you with respect to the common shares
(including the amount of any taxes withheld therefrom) will generally be includable in your gross income as dividend income on
the date of receipt by you, but only to the extent that the distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and
profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles). The dividends will not be eligible for the dividends-received
deduction allowed to corporations in respect of dividends received from other U.S. corporations.
With respect to non-corporate
U.S. Holders, including individual U.S. Holders, dividends are taxed at the lower capital gains rate applicable to qualified dividend
income, provided that (1) the common shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, or we
are eligible for the benefits of an approved qualifying income tax treaty with the United States that includes an exchange of information
program, (2) we are not a passive foreign investment company (as discussed below) for either our taxable year in which the dividend
is paid or the preceding taxable year, and (3) certain holding period requirements are met. Under U.S. Internal Revenue Service
authority, common shares are considered for purpose of clause (1) above to be readily tradable on an established securities market
in the United States if they are listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market. You are urged to consult your tax advisors regarding the
availability of the lower rate for dividends paid with respect to our common shares, including the effects of any change in law
after the date of this annual report.
Dividends will constitute
foreign source income for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. If the dividends are taxed as qualified dividend income (as discussed
above), the amount of the dividend taken into account for purposes of calculating the foreign tax credit limitation will be limited
to the gross amount of the dividend, multiplied by the reduced rate divided by the highest rate of tax normally applicable to dividends.
The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income. For this
purpose, dividends distributed by us with respect to our common shares will constitute “passive category income” but
could, in the case of certain U.S. Holders, constitute “general category income.”
To the extent that the amount
of the distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles),
it will be treated first as a tax-free return of your tax basis in your common shares, and to the extent the amount of the distribution
exceeds your tax basis, the excess will be taxed as capital gain. We do not intend to calculate our earnings and profits under
U.S. federal income tax principles. Therefore, a U.S. Holder should expect that a distribution will be treated as a dividend even
if that distribution would otherwise be treated as a non-taxable return of capital or as capital gain under the rules described
above.
Taxation of Dispositions of Common Shares
Subject to the passive
foreign investment company rules discussed below, you will recognize taxable gain or loss on any sale, exchange or other taxable
disposition of a share equal to the difference between the amount realized (in U.S. dollars) for the share and your tax basis
(in U.S. dollars) in the common shares. The gain or loss will be capital gain or loss. If you are a non-corporate U.S. Holder,
including an individual U.S. Holder, who has held the common shares for more than one year, you will generally be eligible for
reduced tax rates. If capital gains preferential rates are amended, such gains would be taxable at the personal income rates then
in place. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. Any such gain or loss that you recognize will generally
be treated as United States source income or loss for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.
Passive Foreign Investment Company
We believe that we are not
a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the year ended December 31, 2017, but we cannot be
certain whether we will be treated as a passive foreign investment company for any future taxable year. PFIC status is a factual
determination for each taxable year which cannot be made until the close of the taxable year. A non-U.S. corporation is considered
a PFIC for any taxable year if either:
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at least 75% of its gross income is passive income; or
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at least 50% of the value of its assets (based on an average of the quarterly values of the assets during a taxable year) is attributable to assets that produce or are held for the production of passive income (the “asset test”).
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We will be treated as owning
our proportionate share of the assets and earning our proportionate share of the income of any other corporation in which we own,
directly or indirectly, at least 25% (by value) of the stock.
We must make a separate
determination each year as to whether we are a PFIC. As a result, our PFIC status may change. In particular, because the value
of our assets for purposes of the asset test will generally be determined based on the market price of our common shares, our PFIC
status will depend in large part on the market price of our common shares. Accordingly, fluctuations in the market price of the
common shares may cause us to become a PFIC. If we are a PFIC for any year during which you hold common shares, we will continue
to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which you hold common shares.
However, if we cease to
be a PFIC, you may avoid some of the adverse effects of the PFIC regime by making a “deemed sale” election with respect
to the common shares.
If we are a PFIC for any
taxable year during which you hold common shares, you will be subject to special tax rules with respect to any “excess distribution”
that you receive and any gain you realize from a sale or other disposition (including a pledge) of the common shares, unless you
make a “mark-to-market” election as discussed below. Distributions you receive in a taxable year that are greater than
125% of the average annual distributions you received during the shorter of the three preceding taxable years or your holding period
for the common shares will be treated as an excess distribution. Under these special tax rules:
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the excess distribution or gain will be allocated ratably over your holding period for the common shares;
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the amount allocated to the current taxable year, and any taxable year prior to the first taxable year in which we were a PFIC, will be treated as ordinary income, and
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the amount allocated to each other year will be subject to the highest tax rate in effect for that year and the interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax will be imposed on the resulting tax attributable to each such year.
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The tax liability for amounts
allocated to years prior to the year of disposition or “excess distribution” cannot be offset by any net operating
losses for such years, and gains (but not losses) realized on the sale of the common shares cannot be treated as capital, even
if you hold the common shares as capital assets.
A U.S. Holder of “marketable
stock” (as defined below) in a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election for such stock to elect out of the tax treatment discussed
above. If you make a mark-to-market election for the common shares, you will include in income each year an amount equal to the
excess, if any, of the fair market value of the common shares as of the close of your taxable year over your adjusted basis in
such common shares. You are allowed a deduction for the excess, if any, of the adjusted basis of the common shares over their fair
market value as of the close of the taxable year. However, deductions are allowable only to the extent of any net mark-to-market
gains on the common shares included in your income for prior taxable years. Amounts included in your income under a mark-to-market
election, as well as gain on the actual sale or other disposition of the common shares, are treated as ordinary income. Ordinary
loss treatment also applies to the deductible portion of any mark-to-market loss on the common shares, as well as to any loss realized
on the actual sale or disposition of the common shares, to the extent that the amount of such loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market
gains previously included for such common shares. Your basis in the common shares will be adjusted to reflect any such income or
loss amounts. If you make a valid mark-to-market election, the tax rules that apply to distributions by corporations which are
not PFICs would apply to distributions by us, except that the lower applicable capital gains rate for qualified dividend income
discussed above under “— Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions on our Common shares” generally would
not apply.
The mark-to-market election
is available only for “marketable stock”, which is stock that is traded in other than de minimis quantities on at least
15 days during each calendar quarter (“regularly traded”) on a qualified exchange or other market (as defined in applicable
U.S. Treasury regulations), including the NASDAQ Capital Market. If the common shares are regularly traded on the NASDAQ Capital
Market and if you are a holder of common shares, the mark-to-market election would be available to you were we to be or become
a PFIC.
Alternatively, a U.S. Holder
of stock in a PFIC may make a “qualified electing fund” election with respect to such PFIC to elect out of the tax
treatment discussed above. A U.S. Holder who makes a valid qualified electing fund election with respect to a PFIC will generally
include in gross income for a taxable year such holder’s pro rata share of the corporation’s earnings and profits for
the taxable year. However, the qualified electing fund election is available only if such PFIC provides such U.S. Holder with certain
information regarding its earnings and profits as required under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. We do not currently intend
to prepare or provide the information that would enable you to make a qualified electing fund election. If you hold common shares
in any year in which we are a PFIC, you will be required to file U.S. Internal Revenue Service Form 8621 regarding distributions
received on the common shares and any gain realized on the disposition of the common shares.
You are urged to consult
your tax advisors regarding the application of the PFIC rules to your investment in our common shares and the elections discussed
above.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
Dividend payments with
respect to our common shares and proceeds from the sale, exchange or redemption of our common shares may be subject to information
reporting to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and possible U.S. backup withholding. Backup withholding will not apply, however,
to a U.S. Holder who furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number and makes any other required certification on U.S. Internal
Revenue Service Form W-9 or who is otherwise exempt from backup withholding. U.S. Holders who are required to establish their
exempt status generally must provide such certification on U.S. Internal Revenue Service Form W-9. U.S. Holders are urged to consult
their tax advisors regarding the application of the U.S. information reporting and backup withholding rules.
Backup withholding is not
an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against your U.S. federal income tax liability, and you
may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund
with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and furnishing any required information.
We are subject to the
information requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, the Company files reports and other information
with the SEC. You may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at the Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington,
D.C. 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The
SEC also maintains a web site at
http://www.sec.gov
that contains reports and other information regarding registrants
that file electronically with the SEC.
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I.
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Subsidiary Information
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Not applicable.
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Item 11.
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Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
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Our exposure to interest
rate risk primarily relates to excess cash invested in short-term instruments with original maturities of less than a year and
long-term held-to-maturity securities with maturities of greater than a year. Investments in both fixed rate and floating rate
interest earning instruments carry a degree of interest rate risk. Fixed rate securities may have their fair market value adversely
impacted due to a rise in interest rates, while floating rate securities may produce less income than expected if interest rates
fall. Due in part to these factors, our future investment income may fall short of expectations due to changes in interest rates,
or we may suffer losses in principal if we have to sell securities that have declined in market value due to changes in interest
rates. We have not been, and do not expect to be, exposed to material interest rate risks, and therefore have not used any derivative
financial instruments to manage our interest risk exposure.
We had no short-term investments
and long-term held-to-maturity investments as of December 31, 2017.
Foreign Exchange Risk
Our functional currency
is the RMB, and our financial statements are presented in U.S. dollar. The RMB depreciated from 2014 through the end of 2016, but
has appreciated approximately 20% against the U.S. dollar since the beginning of 2017. Any appreciation or depreciation in the
value of RMB relative to the U.S. dollar may affect our financial results reported in the U.S, dollar terms without giving effect
to any underlying change in our business or results of operation.
Currently, our assets, liabilities,
revenues and costs are mainly denominated in RMB. However, we may generate revenues denominated in U.S. dollar, and our offering
was in U.S. dollar. Therefore, a portion of our cash and cash equivalents and short-term financial assets are denominated in U.S.
dollar. Our exposure to foreign exchange risk primarily relate to those financial assets denominated in U.S. dollars. Any significant
revaluation of RMB against U.S. dollar may materially affect our earnings and financial position, and the value of, and any dividends
payable on, our common shares in U.S. dollars in the future. See “Risk Factors — Risks Related to Doing Business
in China — Fluctuations in exchange rates could adversely affect our business and the value of our securities.”
Commodity Risk
As a developer and manufacturer
of bamboo-based charcoal products, our Company is exposed to the risk of an increase in the price of raw bamboo and, as a result,
bamboo charcoal. We historically have lacked an ability to pass on price increases to customers, but we have not entered into any
contract to hedge any specific commodity risk. Moreover, our Company does not purchase or trade on commodity instruments or positions;
instead, it purchases commodities (bamboo charcoal and wood-based charcoal) for use.
In summer 2012, we faced
a supply shortage based on local government initiatives to reduce the risk of fire caused by charcoal. As a result, the local government
in Daxing Anlin, where one of our main wood-based OEM BBQ charcoal suppliers is located, restricted the production of charcoal
during June, July and August 2012. At that time, our stock of OEM BBQ charcoal was insufficient to avoid demand pressures. We have
viewed this temporary shortage as an isolated event and do not expect it to recur in the future. If, however, this belief is incorrect,
the absence of hedging could exacerbate our commodity risk.
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Item 12.
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Description of securities other than equity securities.
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With the exception of
Items 12.D.3 and 12.D.4, this Item 12 is not applicable for annual reports on Form 20-F. As to Items 12.D.3 and 12.D.4, this Item
12 is not applicable, as the Company does not have any American Depositary Shares.
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
The accompanying notes are an integral
part of these consolidated financial statements.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 – Organization and
nature of business
Tantech Holdings Ltd. (“Tantech”
or “Tantech BVI” or the “Company”) is a holding company established under the laws of the British Virgin
Islands on November 19, 2010. Through its 100% owned subsidiary in Hong Kong, USCNHK Group Limited (“USCNHK”), its
100% owned operating subsidiaries located in the People’s Republic of China (“China” or “PRC”),
Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd. (“Tantech Bamboo” or “Bamboo”), Tantech is engaged in the
research and development, production and distribution of various products made from bamboo.
In addition, Tantech Bamboo also has five
wholly-owned subsidiaries: Zhejiang Tantech Bamboo Charcoal Co., Ltd. (“Tantech Charcoal” or “Charcoal”),
Zhejiang Tantech Energy Tech Co., Ltd. (“Tantech Energy” or “Energy”), Zhejiang Babiku Charcoal Co., Ltd.
(“Tantech Babiku” or “Babiku”), LishuiZhongzhu Charcoal Co., Ltd. (“LishuiZhongzhu” or “Zhongzhu”)
and Hangzhou Tanbo Tech Co., Ltd. (“Tanbo Tech” or “Tanbo”). Tantech Charcoal conducts trading business,
including the export of charcoal products; Tantech Babiku, established by Tantech Bamboo on October 20, 2015, conducts BBQ charcoal
business and Tantech Energy is currently in the process of transferring its low emission BBQ charcoal business to Tantech Babiku.
Lishui Zhongzhu, established by Tantech Bamboo on November 18, 2015, is engaged in the production and sales of active charcoal
and other products. Tanbo Tech, another new entity established by Tantech Bamboo on December 8, 2015, plans to explore business
opportunities outside Lishui area. Tantech Energy was engaged in the manufacturing of Electric Double-Layer Capacitor (“EDLC”)
carbon. On December 14, 2017, the Company entered into a sale agreement and related agreements to transfer its EDLC carbon business
(including intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd. (the “Buyer”), a PRC
start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, the Registrant’s former Chief Technology Officer (the “CTO”).
On
August 19, 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized USCNHK to form a wholly-owned subsidiary, LishuiTantech Energy
Tech Co., Ltd. (“LishuiTantech”), as a holding company to hold its 95% equity interest in Tantech Bamboo. On April
7, 2016, LishuiTantech was registered in Lishui, China under the PRC law. On June 24, 2016, Tantech BVI, through LishuiTantech,
entered into an equity purchase agreement with the five individual holders of the remaining 5% interest of Tantech Bamboo, to
acquire the 5% interest of Tantech Bamboo for 1,018,935 shares of the Company’s common stock. The transfer of the 5% equity
interest was completed on December 28, 2016.
On July 12, 2017, the Company acquired
70% of the equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors Co., Ltd, (“E-Motors”) from its original shareholder (Note 4). E-Motors
is a specialty electric vehicles and power batteries manufacturer based in Zhang Jia Gang City, Jiangsu Province, People’s
Republic of China (“China” or “PRC”). The 70% equity interest include 19% equity interest owned directly
through Hangzhou Jiyi Trading Co., Ltd (“Jiyi”) and 51% equity interest owned through a series of contractual agreement
with the owners of Hanzhou Wangbo Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Wangbo”). Jiyi is 100% owned through Shanghai Jiamu
Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Jiamu”), who is, in turn, wholly owned by Euroasia International Capital (“Euroasia”),
a 100% owned subsidiary of the Company. These agreements include a Technical Consultation and Services Agreement, a Business Cooperation
Agreement, an Equity Pledge Agreement, a Share Disposal Agreement and a Voting Rights Proxy Agreement (collectively “VIE
Agreements”). Pursuant to the above VIE Agreements, Jiamu has the exclusive right to provide Wangbo consulting services related
to business operations including technical and management consulting services. All the above contractual agreements obligate Jiamu
to absorb a majority of the risk of loss from Wangbo’s activities and entitle Jiamu to receive a majority of their residual
returns. In essence, Jiamu has gained effective control over Wangbo. Therefore, the Company believes that Wangbo should be considered
as a Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”) under the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”)
Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810 “Consolidation”.
As a result, the Company ultimately controls
70% equity interest of E-Motors and accounts of E-Motors are consolidated into those of the Company. Euroasia is incorporated in
Hong Kong, PRC. Jiamu is incorporated in Shanghai, PRC. Both Jiyi and Wangbo are incorporated in Hanzhou, PRC. Euroasia also has
a fully owned subsidiary Euroasia New Energy Automotive (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd (“Euroasia New Energy”). They are all investment
holding companies with no significant business activities. (Collective “E-Motor Holdings”).
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies
Principal of Consolidation
The accompanying consolidated financial
statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“US
GAAP”). The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Tantech BVI and its subsidiaries, USCNHK,
Lishui Tantech, Tantech Bamboo and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Tantech Charcoal, Tantech Energy, Tantech Babiku and Tanbo Tech,
E-Motor and E-Motor Holdings (collectively, the “Company”). All significant inter-company balances and transactions
are eliminated upon consolidation.
Non-controlling interest
Non-controlling interest represents 30% of the equity
interest in Suzhou E-Motors owned by Jinke Chuangtou Co., Ltd., which is not under the Company's control.
Consolidation of variable interest entities
In
accordance with accounting standards regarding consolidation of variable interest entities, VIEs are generally entities that lack
sufficient equity to finance their activities without additional financial support from other parties or whose equity holders
lack adequate decision making ability. The VIEs with which the Company is involved must be evaluated to determine the primary
beneficiary of the risks and rewards of the VIE. The primary beneficiary is required to consolidate the VIE for financial reporting
purposes.
The following assets and liabilities
of the consolidated VIE are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company as of December 31, 2017:
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December
31, 2017
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Current assets
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$
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16,760,444
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Non-current assets
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36,352,228
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Total assets
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53,112,672
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Current liabilities
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(21,695,054)
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Non-current liabilities
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(2,086,086)
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Total liabilities
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$
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(23,781,140)
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Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for
under the purchase method of accounting. Under the purchase method, assets and liabilities of the business acquired are recorded
at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition with any excess of the cost of the acquisition over the fair value
of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired recorded as goodwill. Results of operations of the acquired business are included
in the income statement from the date of acquisition.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies
Discontinued operation
In accordance with ASU No. 2014-08, Reporting
Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity, a disposal of a component of an entity or a group
of components of an entity is required to be reported as discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that
has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results when the components of an entity meets
the criteria in paragraph 205-20-45-1E to be classified as held for sale. When all of the criteria to be classified as held for
sale are met, including management, having the authority to approve the action, commits to a plan to sell the entity, the major
current assets, other assets, current liabilities, and noncurrent liabilities shall be reported as components of total assets and
liabilities separate from those balances of the continuing operations. At the same time, the results of all discontinued operations
(which we presented as operations to be disposed and operations disposed), less applicable income taxes (benefit), shall be reported
as components of net income (loss) separate from the net income (loss) of continuing operations in accordance with ASC 205-20-45.
Use of Estimates
In preparing the consolidated financial
statements in conformity with US GAAP, management makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the consolidated financial statements, as well
as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting year. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions
include the fair value estimates used in the purchase price allocation, the useful lives of property and equipment; allowances
pertaining to the allowance for doubtful accounts and suppliers; the valuation of inventories; and the realizability of deferred
tax assets.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Financial Accounting Standards Board’s
(“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements”, defines
fair value, establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for fair value measurements and enhances disclosure requirements.
The three levels are defined as follows:
Level 1 - inputs to the valuation methodology
are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2 - inputs to the valuation methodology
include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted market prices for identical or similar assets
in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable, and inputs derived from or corroborated by
observable market data.
Level 3 - inputs to the valuation methodology
are unobservable.
Unless otherwise disclosed, the fair value
of the Company’s financial instruments including cash, restricted cash, accounts receivable, advances to suppliers, other
receivables, accounts payable, customer deposits, accrued expenses, short term bank loans and banker’s acceptance notes payable
approximates their recorded values due to their short-term maturities.
Cash and cash equivalents
For purposes of the statements of cash
flows, the Company considers all highly liquid instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less and money
market accounts to be cash equivalents. All cash balances are in bank accounts in PRC and Hong Kong and are not insured by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or other programs.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash represents required cash
deposits as a part of collateral for bank acceptance notes payable and letters of credit. The Company is required to maintain 19%
of the balance of the bank acceptance notes payable in restricted cash to ensure future credit availability. The Company earns
interest at a variable rate per month on this restricted cash.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies - continued
Concentrations of credit risk
Financial instruments which potentially
subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash, trade accounts receivable and advances to suppliers.
All of the Company’s cash is maintained with banks within the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong of which no
deposits are covered by insurance. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts. A significant portion of the Company's
sales are credit sales which are primarily to customers whose ability to pay is dependent upon the industry economics prevailing
in these areas. The Company also makes cash advances to certain suppliers to ensure the stable supply of key raw materials. The
Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and key suppliers to help further reduce credit risk.
Accounts receivable
Accounts receivable are presented net of
an allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses. The Company
reviews its accounts receivable on a periodic basis and makes general and specific allowances when there is doubt as to the collectability
of individual balances. In evaluating the collectability of individual receivable balances, the Company considers many factors,
including the age of the balance, customer’s historical payment history, its current credit-worthiness and current economic
trends. Accounts are written off after efforts at collection prove unsuccessful.
Inventory
The Company values its inventories at the
lower of cost, determined on a weighted average basis, or market. The Company reviews its inventories periodically to determine
if any reserves are necessary for potential obsolescence or if a write-down is necessary if the carrying value exceeds net realizable
value.
Advances to Suppliers
In order to ensure a steady supply of raw
materials, the Company is required from time to time to make cash advances when placing its purchase orders. The Company reviews
its advances to suppliers on a periodic basis and makes general and specific allowances when there is doubt as to the ability of
a supplier to refund an advance or provide supplies to the Company.
Property and Equipment and Construction
in Progress
Property and equipment are stated at cost
less accumulated depreciation. The cost of an asset comprises its purchase price and any directly attributable costs of bringing
the asset to its present working condition and location for its intended use.
Depreciation is computed on a straight-line
basis over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. The estimated useful lives for significant property and equipment
are as follows:
Buildings
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20 years
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Machinery and equipment
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5-10 years
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Transportation equipment
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4 years
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Office equipment
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4 - 5 years
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Electronic equipment
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3 years
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Repairs and maintenance costs are normally
charged to earnings in the year in which they are incurred. In situations where it can be clearly demonstrated that the expenditure
has resulted in an increase in the future economic benefits expected to be obtained from the use of the asset, the expenditure
is capitalized as an additional cost of the asset.
Construction in progress includes direct
costs of construction or acquisition of equipment, interest expense associated with the loans used for the construction and design
fees incurred. Capitalization of these costs ceases and the construction in progress is transferred to plant and equipment when
substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the assets for their intended use are completed. No depreciation is provided
until it is completed and ready for its intended use.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies - continued
Intangibles including goodwill
Intangible assets are acquired individually
or as part of a group of assets, and are initially recorded at their fair value. The cost of a group of assets acquired in a transaction
is allocated to the individual assets based on their relative fair values.
The estimated useful lives of the Company’s intangible
assets are as follows:
|
|
Estimated Useful Life
|
|
|
|
Goodwill
|
|
Indefinite
|
Licenses and permit
|
|
Indefinite
|
Software
|
|
3- 10 years
|
Land use right
|
|
50 years
|
Patents
|
|
10 years
|
The Company evaluates intangible assets
for impairment other than goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired.
The Company evaluates goodwill and licenses
and permits for impairment when a triggering event occurs. There is no intangible assets impairment as of December 31, 2017 and
2016.
Customer Deposits
Customer deposits represent amounts received
from customers in advance of shipments relating to the sales of the Company’s products.
Leases
Leases are classified as either capital
or operating leases. Leases that transfer substantially all the benefits and risks incidental to the ownership of assets are accounted
for as capital leases as if there was an acquisition of an asset and incurrence of an obligation at the inception of the lease.
All other leases are accounted for as operating leases wherein rental payments are expensed as incurred.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues under FAS
Codification Topic 605 (“ASC 605”). Revenue is recognized when all of the following have occurred: (i) persuasive evidence
of an arrangement exists, (ii) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (iii) the price is fixed or determinable,
and (iv) the ability to collect is reasonably assured. These criteria, as related to the Company’s revenue, are considered
to have been met as follows:
Sales of products: Upon sales of products,
the delivery of goods either occurs when (a) goods leave the Company’s warehouse or production facilities or (b) goods are
delivered and accepted by customer, usually at a location outside the Company. For sales under free on board (“FOB”)
warehouse or production facilities term, the Company recognizes revenue when product leaves the Company’s warehouse or production
facility. Product delivery is evidenced by warehouse shipping log as well as signed shipping bills from the shipping company. For
sales under FOB destination term, the Company recognizes revenue when product is delivered and accepted by customer. Product delivery
is evidenced by signed receipt document upon delivery.
Under both cases, the risk of loss and/or
title of goods passes to the customer at the time of delivery. The Company does not recognize any revenue for any sale arrangements
that do not transfer title and/or risk of loss. The Company’s sales cutoff for both methods is evidenced by the receipt of
goods delivery either signed by the shipping company or the customer acknowledging the receipt of goods. Such document is used
as the proof of transfer of title and/or risk of loss.
Revenue from the rendering of services:
Revenue from electric vehicle assembly services are recognized upon performance of services as stipulated in the underlying contract.
Service revenue generated is currently minimum and insignificant.
Government manufacturing rebate income:
The Company is eligible for a government manufacturing rebate on each qualifying electric bus sold. The government manufacturing
rebates are recognized as part of revenue when sales are finalized, amount of rebates can be reasonably estimated and collection
is assured. The collectability of rebates can be assured as long as the sales are deemed qualifying based on the criteria set by
the government.
Revenue is reported net of all value added
taxes. The Company does not routinely permit customers to return products and historically, customer returns have been immaterial.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies - continued
Cost of revenues
Cost of revenues includes cost of raw materials
purchased, inbound freight cost, cost of direct labor, depreciation expense and other overhead. Cost of revenues also includes
the cost of raw materials and utility purchased from related parties. Write-down of inventory for lower of cost or market adjustments
is also recorded in cost of revenues.
Subsidy Income
The Company periodically receives various
government grants such as “High Technology Projects Subsidy” and “Scientific Research Grant”. There is
no guarantee the Company will continue to receive such grants in the future.
Other Income
Other income was primarily related to the
consulting fee that the Company charged a third party using a Company’s patent in the production of doors with air treatment
functionality.
Foreign Currency Translation
The Company’s financial information
is presented in U.S. dollars. The functional currency of the Company’s subsidiaries in the PRC is the RMB, the currency of
the PRC. Any subsidiary transactions, which are denominated in currencies other than RMB, are translated into RMB
at the exchange rate quoted by the People’s Bank of China prevailing at the dates of the transactions, and exchange
gains and losses are included in the statements of operations as foreign currency transaction gain or loss. The consolidated financial
statements of the Company have been translated into U.S. dollars in accordance with ASC 830, “Foreign Currency Matters”.
The financial information is first prepared in RMB and then is translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates for assets
and liabilities and average exchange rates for revenue and expenses. Capital accounts are translated at their historical exchange
rates when the capital transactions occurred. The effects of foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component
of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity. Cash flows from the Company’s operations are calculated
based upon the local currencies using the average translation rate. As a result, amounts related to assets and liabilities reported
on the statements of cash flows will not necessarily agree with changes in the corresponding balances on the balance sheets.
The following table outlines the currency
exchange rates that were used in creating the consolidated financial statements in this report:
|
|
December 31, 2017
|
|
December 31, 2016
|
|
December 31, 2015
|
US$:RMB exchange rate
|
|
Period End
|
|
$
|
0.1537
|
|
|
Period End
|
|
$
|
0.1440
|
|
|
Period End
|
|
$
|
0.1541
|
|
|
|
Average
|
|
$
|
0.1478
|
|
|
Average
|
|
$
|
0.1506
|
|
|
Average
|
|
$
|
0.1606
|
|
Comprehensive Income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) consists of
two components, net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) refers to revenue, expenses,
gains and losses that under GAAP are recorded as an element of shareholder’s equity but are excluded from net income. Other
comprehensive income (loss) consists of foreign currency translation adjustment from those subsidiaries not using the U.S. dollar
as their functional currency.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies - continued
Income Taxes
The Company’s subsidiaries in China
are subject to the income tax laws of the PRC. No taxable income was generated outside the PRC for the years ended December 31,
2017 and 2016. The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, “Income Taxes”. ASC 740 requires an
asset and liability approach for financial accounting and reporting for income taxes and allows recognition and measurement of
deferred tax assets based upon the likelihood of realization of tax benefits in future years. Under the asset and liability approach,
deferred taxes are provided for the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities
for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is provided for deferred tax
assets if it is more likely than not these items will either expire before the Company is able to realize their benefits, or future
deductibility is uncertain.
ASC 740-10-25 prescribes a more-likely-than-not
threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken (or expected to be taken) in a tax return.
It also provides guidance on the recognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income
tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, years open for tax examination,
accounting for income taxes in interim periods and income tax disclosures. There were no material uncertain tax positions as of
December 31, 2017 and 2016. All tax returns since the Company’s inception are subject to examination by tax authorities.
Value Added Tax (“VAT”)
The Company is subject to VAT for selling
merchandise. The applicable VAT rate is 13% or 17% (depending on the type of goods involved) for products sold in the PRC. The
amount of VAT liability is determined by applying the applicable tax rate to the invoiced amount of goods sold (output VAT) less
VAT paid on purchases made with the relevant supporting invoices (input VAT). Under the commercial practice of the PRC, the Company
pays VAT based on tax invoices issued. The tax invoices may be issued subsequent to the date on which revenue is recognized, and
there may be a considerable delay between the date on which the revenue is recognized and the date on which the tax invoice is
issued. In the event the PRC tax authorities dispute the date on which revenue is recognized for tax purposes, the PRC tax office
has the right to assess a penalty based on the amount of taxes which is determined to be late or deficient, with any penalty being
expensed in the period when a determination is made by the tax authorities that a penalty is due. During the reporting periods,
the Company had no dispute with PRC tax authorities and there was no tax penalty incurred.
Earnings (loss) per Share (“EPS”)
The Company computes earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) in accordance with ASC 260, “Earnings
per Share” (“ASC 260”), and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 98 (“SAB 98”). ASC 260 requires companies
with complex capital structures to present basic and diluted EPS. Basic EPS is measured as net income divided by the weighted average
common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is similar to basic EPS but presents the dilutive effect on a per share basis
of potential common shares (e.g., convertible securities, options and warrants) as if they had been converted at the beginning
of the periods presented, or issuance date, if later. Potential common shares that have an anti-dilutive effect (i.e., those that
increase income per share or decrease loss per share) are excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS.
As
of December 31, 2017, there were 1,078,045 warrants
not included in the diluted loss per
share as they would be anti-dilutive.
Statement of Cash Flows
In accordance with ASC 230, “Statement
of Cash Flows,” cash flows from the Company’s operations are calculated based upon the local currencies. As a result,
amounts related to assets and liabilities reported on the statements of cash flows will not necessarily agree with changes in the
corresponding balances on the balance sheets
Reclassification
In connection with the discontinued operation of
the EDLC business, certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Such reclassifications
had no effect on net income or cash flows as previously reported.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies - continued
Risks and Uncertainties
The operations of the Company are located
in the PRC. Accordingly, the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations may be influenced by the
political, economic, and legal environments in the PRC, in addition to the general state of the PRC economy. The Company’s
results may be adversely affected by changes in the political and social conditions in the PRC, and by changes in governmental
policies with respect to laws and regulations, anti-inflationary measures, currency conversion and remittance abroad, and rates
and methods of taxation, among other things.
The Company’s sales, purchases and
expense transactions are denominated in RMB, and all of the Company’s assets and liabilities are also denominated in RMB.
The RMB is not freely convertible into foreign currencies under the current law. In China, foreign exchange transactions are required
by law to be transacted only by authorized financial institutions at exchange rates set by the People’s Bank of China, the
central bank of China. Remittances in currencies other than RMB may require certain supporting documentation in order to affect
the remittance.
The Company does not carry any business
interruption insurance, products liability insurance or any other insurance policy except for a limited property insurance policy.
As a result, the Company may incur uninsured losses, increasing the possibility that investors would lose their entire investment
in the Company.
Recent accounting pronouncements
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09), which
supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, including most industry-specific revenue recognition
guidance throughout the Industry Topics of the Codification. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised
goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that is expected to be received for
those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, which deferred the effective date of ASU 2014-09 to fiscal
years beginning after December 31, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted for reporting
periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Subsequently, the FASB issued ASUs in 2016 containing implementation guidance related
to ASU 2014-09, including: ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations
(Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net), which is intended to improve the operability and understandability of the implementation
guidance on principal versus agent considerations; ASU 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying
Performance Obligations and Licensing, which is intended to clarify two aspects of Topic 606: identifying performance obligations
and the licensing implementation guidance; ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements
and Practical Expedients, which contains certain provisions and practical expedients in response to identified implementation issues;
and ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which is intended
to clarify the Codification or to correct unintended application of guidance. ASU 2014-09 allows for either full retrospective
or modified retrospective adoption. The Company adopted ASU 2014-09 and the related ASUs on January 1, 2018 using the modified
retrospective method, which will not result in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to the opening balance sheet of retained earnings
at the effective date.
In September 2017, the FASB has issued
ASU No. 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), Leases (Topic 840),
and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission
of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments.” The amendments in ASU No. 2017-13 amends the early adoption date
option for certain companies related to the adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. Entities may still adopt using the
public company adoption guidance in the related ASUs, as amended. The effective date is the same as the effective date and transition
requirements for the amendments for ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2016-02.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 2 – Summary of significant
accounting policies - continued
Recent accounting pronouncements
Under ASC 606, an entity recognizes revenue
when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects the consideration which the entity
expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. To determine revenue recognition for arrangements that an entity determines
are within the scope of ASC 606, the entity performs the following five steps: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (ii)
identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price; (iv) allocate the transaction price
to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation.
ASC 606 also impacts certain other areas, such as the accounting for costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. The standard also requires
disclosure of the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers.
The Company has performed an assessment
of our revenue contracts and concluded that there will be no change to (1) the timing and pattern of revenue recognition for its
current revenue streams in scope of Topic 606, which includes product sales, (2) the presentation of revenue as gross versus net,
or (3) the amount of capitalized contract costs upon adoption of Topic 606. Because there will be no change to the timing and pattern
of revenue recognition, we believe there will be no material changes to the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting
Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (ASU 2016-02). ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize lease assets and lease
liabilities on the balance sheet and to disclose key information about the entity’s leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. A modified retrospective
approach is required. The Company anticipates the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated
financial position; however, the Company does not believe adoption will have a material impact on the Company’s results of
operations. The Company believes the most significant impact relates to our accounting for operating leases for office space and
equipment.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No.
2017-01, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business”. The amendments in this ASU clarify
the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should
be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. Basically, these amendments provide a screen to determine
when a set is not a business. If the screen is not met, the amendments in this ASU first, require that to be considered a business,
a set must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create
output and second, remove the evaluation of whether a market participant could replace missing elements. These amendments take
effect for public businesses for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those periods, and all
other entities should apply these amendments for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within annual
periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material
impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU No.
2017-05 (“ASU 2017-05”) to provide guidance for recognizing gains and losses from the transfer of nonfinancial assets
and in-substance nonfinancial assets in contracts with non-customers, unless other specific guidance applies. The standard requires
a company to derecognize nonfinancial assets once it transfers control of a distinct nonfinancial asset or distinct in substance
nonfinancial asset. Additionally, when a company transfers its controlling interest in a nonfinancial asset, but retains a noncontrolling
ownership interest, the company is required to measure any noncontrolling interest it receives or retains at fair value. The guidance
requires companies to recognize a full gain or loss on the transaction. As a result of the new guidance, the guidance specific
to real estate sales in ASC 360-20 will be eliminated. ASU 2017-05 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15,
2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. The effective date of this guidance coincides with revenue recognition
guidance. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial
statements.
In March 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-05
— Income Taxes (Topic 740): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“ASU 2018-05”),
which amends the FASB Accounting Standards Codification and XBRL Taxonomy based on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Act”)
that was signed into law on December 22, 2017 and Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) that was released by
the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Act changes numerous provisions that impact U.S. corporate tax rates, business-related
exclusions, and deductions and credits and may additionally have international tax consequences for many companies that operate
internationally. The Company does not believe this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Note 3 -- Liquidity
For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had a significant
decrease in revenue from its consumer product segment due to stiff competition; disposed its EDLC business as a result of operating
losses and outdated technology; completed the acquisition of Suzhou E-Motors to enter into the electric vehicle (“EV”)
business. All of these events had and will continue to have significant impact on the Company’s operations. For its consumer
product sector, the Company significantly cut its sales to supermarket customers because of long-aged accounts receivable from
these supermarket customers as online shopping has become increasingly popular. The Company has been experiencing longer sales
and collection periods while pushing back on the delivery of raw materials for production. That leads to higher balances of accounts
receivable and advances to suppliers as compared to prior years. Meanwhile, the newly acquired EV sector is also experiencing delays
of government rebate processing time and reduction of the amount of government rebates on eligible vehicles due to recent policy
changes. On the other hand, the disposal of the EDLC business can save the Company certain operating cash flows.
Due to a successful equity financing which
resulted in net proceeds of $5.6 million in September 2017, the Company still had approximately $10 million cash on hand as of
December 31, 2017. Although the Company maintains a positive working capital as of December 31, 2017 and generated positive cash
flows from its continued operations during the year ended December 31, 2017, the future operations of the Company depend on whether
or not the Company can successfully collect its accounts receivable and utilize its advances, as well as how the change of government
policies affect its new EV business. Without additional equity financing, the Company may heavily rely on bank borrowings or shareholder/related
party loans to fund its working capital needs. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had a short-term loan balance of
approximately $5.2 million and $6.7 million, respectively. In addition, the Company had bank acceptance note payable balance of
$7.0 million and $1.7 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Any failure to renew these bank borrowings upon
their maturities could have an adverse impact on the Company’s operations.
The Company currently plans to fund its
operations mainly through cash flow from its operations, renewal of bank borrowings, additional equity financing and the continuing
financial support by its shareholders and its affiliates controlled by its principal shareholder, if necessary, in the near future
to ensure sufficient working capital. The Company has implemented a stricter policy on sales to supermarkets and less credible
customers and continues to improve its collection efforts on accounts with outstanding balances. As of May 6, 2018, the Company
subsequently collected $16.4 million of the accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2017 from its continuing operations,
and $5.4 million of the accounts receivable balance from its EDLC business. The Company also subsequently utilized $2.4 million
of advance to suppliers balance as of December 31, 2017 from its continuing operations, and collected refund of $1.0 million advance
to suppliers balance from its EDLC business as of May 6, 2018. The Company is actively working with other customers and suppliers
and expects to fully collect or utilize the rest of prepayment balance in 2018. As of the date of this report, the Company maintains
a cash balance of approximately $9.8 million, excluding the $18.4 equity investment paid to acquire Lishui Xincai Industrial Co.,
Ltd. (See Note 22 – Subsequent Event).
The Company is also working closely with
the local government to speed up the government rebate process and expects the outstanding rebate receivable being fully collected
in 2019. With disposal of its EDLC business and placing focus on manufacturing of more marketable consumer products, the Company
is shifting its strategy to cut back costs and ensure profitability. Although the Company is currently not generating net income
from its EV sector, it has been focusing on reducing the costs and expenses and developing other non-rebate alternative energy
products. The Company plans to fund this sector through additional private placement and continued support from the parent company
even without timely receipt of government rebate. The principal shareholder of the Company, along with the affiliated entity, Forasen
Group, has made pledges to provide financial support to the Company whenever necessary.
Based on its current operating plan, management
believes that the above-mentioned measures collectively will provide sufficient liquidity for the Company to meet its future liquidity
and capital requirements for at least next twelve months from the date of this report.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 4 – Acquisition of E-Motors
On July 12, 2017 (the “Closing Date”),
the Company completed the acquisition of 70% of the equity interest of E-Motors through E-Motors Holdings (Note 1), a specialty
electric vehicles and power batteries manufacturer based in Zhang Jia Gang City, Jiangsu Province, People’s Republic of China.
Pursuant to the original Purchase Agreement
executed on May 2, 2016, and the Supplemental Agreement No. 1 signed on December 22, 2016 and Supplemental Agreement No. 2 signed
on July 12, 2017, the Company acquired 70% equity interest of Suzhou E-Motors for a total cash consideration of $15,861,840 (RMB
103,200,000) and a share consideration of 2,500,000 restricted shares of Tantech’s common stock with fair value of $6,500,000.
The Company believes that the acquisition brings new advanced technologies and economic synergies in electric vehicle market and
broaden the Company’s customer base and cross-selling opportunities.
The transaction was accounted for as a
business combination using the purchase method of accounting. The purchase price allocation of the transaction was determined by
the Company with the assistance of an independent appraisal firm based on the estimated fair value of the assets acquired
and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date. The purchase price allocation to assets acquired and liabilities assumed as
of the date of acquisition was as follows:
|
|
Amounts
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash acquired
|
|
$
|
37,132
|
|
Restricted cash
|
|
|
23,055
|
|
Accounts receivable, net
|
|
|
4,495,690
|
|
Accounts receivable from related parties, net
|
|
|
3,434,845
|
|
Manufacturer rebate receivable
|
|
|
6,209,480
|
|
Inventories, net
|
|
|
2,404,668
|
|
Advances to suppliers, net
|
|
|
1,233,274
|
|
Due from related party
|
|
|
385,083
|
|
Other current assets
|
|
|
1,608,333
|
|
Property, plant and equipment, net
|
|
|
1,584,652
|
|
Patents and software
|
|
|
2,050,923
|
|
Electronic vehicle registered license
|
|
|
13,907,238
|
|
Accounts payable
|
|
|
(6,101,767
|
)
|
Accrued liabilities and other current liabilities
|
|
|
(6,444,440
|
)
|
Deferred tax liability
|
|
|
(1,884,603
|
)
|
Noncontrolling interest
|
|
|
(9,583,646
|
)
|
Goodwill
|
|
|
9,001,923
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total consideration
|
|
$
|
22,361,840
|
|
The intangible assets mainly include E-motor’s
electronic vehicles registered license of $13,907,238 with an indefinite life. The goodwill is mainly attributable to the excess
of the consideration paid over the fair value of the net assets acquired that cannot be recognized separately as identifiable
assets under U.S. GAAP.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 5 – Disposal of Certain Assets
of Tantech Energy
On December 14, 2017, the Company entered
into a sale agreement and related agreements (the “EDLC Agreements”) to transfer its Electric Double-Layer Capacitor
(“EDLC”) carbon business (including intellectual property rights and equipment) to Zhejiang Apeikesi Energy Co., Ltd.
(the “Buyer”), a PRC start-up company controlled by Dr. Zaihua Chen, the Registrant’s former CTO.
Pursuant to the EDLC Agreements, total purchase price is $2,459,200 (RMB 16 million) (the “Purchase
Price”). The purchase price is payable in ten years with initial payment of approximately $0.7 million (RMB 4.48 million)
due in fiscal 2017. The remaining purchase price shall be paid in nine equal installments in the following nine years. The Buyer
is required to pay annual interest on the remaining purchase price at the PRC prime borrowing rate. As of December 14, 2017, the
book value of net assets underlying the transaction was $432,929 and the gain from the sales transaction was approximately $1,948,490,
which was included in the net income from discontinued operation in fiscal 2017. As of December 31, 2017, the aggregated of accounts
receivable from Buyer was $1,770,624 of which $$1,502,518 was included in the accounts receivable –long term in the consolidated
balance sheets (Note 5).
In connection with the Agreement, Buyer
and the Company also signed a lease agreement, pursuant to which, the Buyer agreed to lease the existing production facility from
Tantech Energy for five years. The rents for the first two years are free. The annual rent income for the third, fourth and fifth
year is $50,750, $58,000 and $65,250, respectively. As a result of this agreement, the Company believes the sales of certain assets
of Tantech Energy represented a strategic shift that could have a material effect on the Company’s result of operations.
Based on the Company’s management accounts, certain assets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the revenue and expenses for
the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 have been reclassified as discontinued operations to retrospectively reflect this transaction.
The financial results of the disposed EDLC
business line are set forth below.
|
|
For the year ended December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Revenue
|
|
$
|
3,402,405
|
|
|
$
|
7,133,079
|
|
|
$
|
12,015,364
|
|
Cost of revenues
|
|
|
(1,433,301
|
)
|
|
|
(6,645,824
|
)
|
|
|
(9,864,991
|
)
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
1,969,104
|
|
|
|
487,255
|
|
|
|
2,150,373
|
|
Operating expenses
|
|
|
(4,100,079
|
)
|
|
|
(2,798,681
|
)
|
|
|
(2,405
|
)
|
(Loss) Income from operations
|
|
|
(2,130,975
|
)
|
|
|
(2,311,426
|
)
|
|
|
2,147,968
|
|
Gain on disposal of EDLC
|
|
|
1,948,490
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Other income (expense), net
|
|
|
219,971
|
|
|
|
(2,051
|
)
|
|
|
3,566
|
|
Net income (loss) before tax
|
|
|
37,486
|
|
|
|
(2,313,477
|
)
|
|
|
2,151,534
|
|
Income taxes
|
|
|
(7,168
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(261,800
|
)
|
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
|
|
$
|
30,318
|
|
|
$
|
(2,313,477
|
)
|
|
$
|
1,889,734
|
|
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 6 – Accounts receivable
Accounts receivable consisted of the following:
|
|
December 31
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable
|
|
$
|
52,201,869
|
|
|
$
|
41,577,348
|
|
Accounts receivable – related parties *
|
|
|
3,434,845
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Allowance for doubtful accounts
|
|
|
(3,879,219
|
)
|
|
|
(936,456
|
)
|
|
|
|
51,757,495
|
|
|
|
40,640,892
|
|
Less: account receivable – long term portion from continuing operations **
|
|
|
(1,502,518
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
Accounts receivable – short term portion, net
|
|
$
|
50,254,977
|
|
|
$
|
40,640,892
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Including:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable – short term portion from continuing operations, net
|
|
$
|
44,834,930
|
|
|
$
|
35,904,345
|
|
Accounts receivable – short term portion from EDLC business net
|
|
$
|
5,420,047
|
|
|
$
|
4,736,547
|
|
Accounts receivable – short term portion, net
|
|
$
|
50,254,977
|
|
|
$
|
40,640,892
|
|
* As of December 31, 2017, the Company
had total accounts receivable balances of $3,434,845 due from the affiliates of the original shareholders of E-Motors. E-Motors
did not have related party’s sales to these two related parties after being acquired by the Company on July 12, 2017 (Note
4). The Company collected back approximately $2.2 million (RMB 14.5 million) from these two related parties by May 6, 2018 and
expects to collect the remaining balance by June 30, 2018.
**representing the non-current portion
of accounts receivable resulted from disposition of certain assets in Tantech Energy (Note 5).
Approximately $16.4 million or 37% of
the accounts receivable balances (including $2.2 million accounts receivable from related parties) from continuing operations
(equivalent to approximately $23.8 million) and $5.4 million of accounts receivable balance from EDLC business have been subsequently
collected by May 6, 2018.
|
|
Years ended December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
Balance at beginning of year
|
|
$
|
936,456
|
|
|
$
|
1,224,364
|
|
Addition to doubtful accounts expense
|
|
|
2,768,948
|
|
|
|
547,176
|
|
Deduction – collection of doubtful accounts
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(748,241
|
)
|
Translation adjustments
|
|
|
173,815
|
|
|
|
(86,843
|
)
|
Balance at end of year
|
|
$
|
3,879,219
|
|
|
$
|
936,456
|
|
Note 7 – Inventory
Inventory consisted of the following:
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Raw materials
|
|
$
|
1,649,403
|
|
|
$
|
822,538
|
|
Finished products
|
|
|
321,473
|
|
|
|
282,783
|
|
Work in process
|
|
|
876,003
|
|
|
|
153,261
|
|
Subtotal
|
|
|
2,846,879
|
|
|
|
1,258,582
|
|
Inventory reserve
|
|
|
(84,863
|
)
|
|
|
(59,832
|
)
|
|
|
|
2,762,016
|
|
|
|
1,198,750
|
|
Less: inventory from discontinued operations
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
123,177
|
|
Inventory from continuing operations
|
|
$
|
2,762,016
|
|
|
$
|
1,075,573
|
|
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 8 – Advances to suppliers
Advances to suppliers - current
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Advances to suppliers
|
|
$
|
22,285,733
|
|
|
$
|
16,465,072
|
|
Allowance for doubtful accounts
|
|
|
(4,764,768
|
)
|
|
|
(1,670,521
|
)
|
Advances to suppliers, net
|
|
$
|
17,520,965
|
|
|
$
|
14,794,551
|
|
Including:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Advances to suppliers from continuing operations, net
|
|
$
|
11,290,625
|
|
|
$
|
10,055,316
|
|
Advances to suppliers from EDLC business, net
|
|
$
|
6,230,340
|
|
|
$
|
4,739,235
|
|
Advances to suppliers, net
|
|
$
|
17,520,965
|
|
|
$
|
14,794,551
|
|
An analysis of the allowance for doubtful
accounts for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 is as follows:
|
|
Years ended December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
Balance at beginning of year
|
|
$
|
1,670,521
|
|
|
$
|
306,915
|
|
Addition to doubtful accounts expense
|
|
|
2,947,657
|
|
|
|
1,458,381
|
|
Deduction – utilization or return of advances
|
|
|
(80,740
|
)
|
|
|
(22,141
|
)
|
Translation adjustments
|
|
|
227,330
|
|
|
|
(72,634
|
)
|
Balance at end of year
|
|
$
|
4,764,768
|
|
|
$
|
1,670,521
|
|
Approximately 21% of the prepayment balances
(equivalent to approximately $2.4 million) from continuing operations as of December 31, 2017 have been utilized by May 6, 2018.
Approximately $1.0 million of the prepayment balance from EDLC business as of December 31, 2017 have been collected by May 6,
2018. One of the Company’s major vendor in EDLC business, Longquan Zhixin Trading Co., Ltd., with outstanding advance to
supplier balance of $5.9 million as of December 31, 2017 has signed an agreement with the Company to repay the full amount prior
to June 2018.
Advances to suppliers - long term
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zhejiang Longquanzhixin Commercial & Trade Co., Ltd *
|
|
$
|
1,647,905
|
|
|
$
|
8,638,260
|
|
Zhibo Jieli Special Battery Material Co., Ltd **
|
|
|
461,100
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Advances to suppliers - long term, net
|
|
$
|
2,109,005
|
|
|
$
|
8,638,260
|
|
* representing the prepayments made to
ensure continuous high-quality supply and favorable purchase prices. On December 15, 2016, the Company entered into a long-term
supply agreement with Zhejiang Longquanzhixin Commercial & Trade Co., Ltd. (“ZLCT”) to make an advance payment
of $8,638,260 million (RMB 60,000,000) as of December 31, 2016. The purpose of the prepayment is to support ZLCT to purchase local
bamboo forests (approximately 1,650 acres) and expand its operations. Meanwhile, the Company is guaranteed to receive steady supplies
from ZLCT of minimum 13,000 tons of charcoal raw material annually with a fixed purchase price for the next three years. Advances
will be offset through bamboo raw material purchases until the advances are fully utilized.
** representing the prepayments made to
acquire machinery.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 9 – Manufacturing Rebate
Receivable
On September 13, 2013, the Chinese Ministry
of Finance, the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the
Chinese National Development and Reform Commission issued a joint announcement that in order to promote the development, sale
and use of alternative energy vehicles, Chinese government will continue to provide a manufacturing rebate for qualifying alternative
energy vehicles sold. The government rebate is paid to the Company on behalf of our customer for a portion of selling price, for
which, our customer does not need to pay at the time of purchase. The government manufacturing rebates are typically provided
to eligible alternative energy automobile manufacturers within two years period after sales are finalized and paperwork is submitted.
Based on the criteria listed, E-Motors is eligible for approximately $29,400 and $60,200 in government manufacturing
rebates for each of the qualifying electric buses sold during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The Company applied 100 qualified electric
buses sold during the period from July 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017 for government manufacture rebate and recognized $2,942,190
manufacturing rebate income as part of revenue and corresponding receivable for the year ended December 31, 2017, because the management
believes that the electric buses sold met all the criteria set by the government and the collection of these manufacturing rebates
is reasonably assured. As of December 31, 2017, the manufacturing rebate receivable was $9,269,118, including $6,209,480 of manufacturing
rebate receivable related to qualified electric buses sold in fiscal 2016 and $3,059,638 of manufacturing rebate receivable related
to qualified electric buses sold in fiscal 2017. E-Motors has received the full payment of the eligible government rebates for
the qualifying electric buses sold in fiscal 2015. The Company has not received any payment of those eligible government rebates
for the sales made in the fiscal year 2016 due to the recent slower processing of rebates. The Company expected to fully collect
manufacturing rebates receivable in 2019.
Note 10 – Property, plant and
equipment, net
Property, plant and equipment stated at
cost less accumulated depreciation consisted of the following:
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Building
|
|
$
|
13,430,892
|
|
|
$
|
11,936,896
|
|
Machinery and Production equipment
|
|
|
2,831,180
|
|
|
|
2,795,133
|
|
Electronic equipment
|
|
|
312,667
|
|
|
|
236,890
|
|
Office equipment
|
|
|
75,097
|
|
|
|
46,988
|
|
Automobiles
|
|
|
655,897
|
|
|
|
212,167
|
|
Subtotal
|
|
|
17,305,733
|
|
|
|
15,228,074
|
|
Accumulated depreciation
|
|
|
(7,421,887
|
)
|
|
|
(5,958,240
|
)
|
|
|
|
9,883,846
|
|
|
|
9,269,834
|
|
Less: Property, plant and equipment, net for discontinued operations
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
591,857
|
|
Property, plant and equipment, net for continuing operations
|
|
$
|
9,883,846
|
|
|
$
|
8,677,977
|
|
Depreciation expense was $613,296, $534,252 and $1,546,528 for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016
and 2015, respectively.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 11 – Intangible assets, net
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Software
|
|
$
|
761,052
|
|
|
$
|
702,666
|
|
Electronic vehicle registered license (Note 4)
|
|
|
13,907,238
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Land use rights*
|
|
|
1,982,926
|
|
|
|
1,857,410
|
|
Patents**
|
|
|
4,611,000
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Total
|
|
|
21,262,216
|
|
|
|
2,560,076
|
|
Less: Accumulated amortization
|
|
|
(3,785,786
|
)
|
|
|
(771,898
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Intangible assets, net
|
|
$
|
17,476,430
|
|
|
$
|
1,788,178
|
|
*There is no private ownership of land
in China. Land is usually owned by the local government and the government grants land use rights for specified terms. The Company
acquired two land use rights from the local government in December 2002 and September 2008 for periods of 50 years. As of December
31, 2017, and 2016, land use rights with net book value of $1,365,030 and $1,522,564, respectively, were pledged as collateral
for bank loans. The land use rights are amortized over 50 years and the software is amortized over 5 years. Amortization expense
for intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 totaled $201,647, $39,659 and $9,811, respectively.
** Patents on specialty electric vehicles
resulted from the acquisition of Suzhou E-Motors (Note 4).
Note 12 – Short-term bank loans
The Company’s short-term bank
loans consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loan payable to Hangzhou Bank
|
|
(a)
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
287,942
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loan payable to Bank of China Lishui Branch
|
|
(b)
|
|
|
5,208,893
|
|
|
|
4,967,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loan payable to SPD bank
|
|
(c)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
1,439,710
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
|
$
|
5,208,893
|
|
|
$
|
6,694,652
|
|
|
(a)
|
On March 28, 2016, the Company entered into a short-term loan agreement with Hangzhou Bank (Lishui
Branch) to borrow $287,942 (RMB 2 million) for a year with fixed annual interest rate of 4.35%. The purpose of the borrowing is
to fund working capital needs. The loan was guaranteed by a third party, China Pacific Property Insurance Co. Ltd. The loan was
repaid on maturity date in 2017.
|
|
(b)
|
On May 10, 2016, the Company entered into a short-term loan agreement with Bank of China (Lishui Branch)
to borrow $2,087,580 (RMB 14.5 million) for a year with fixed annual interest rate of 5.88%. In addition, on June 6, 2016, the
Company entered into a short-term loan agreement with Bank of China (Lishui Branch) to borrow $2,879,420 (RMB 20 million) for a
year with a floating rate, the annual rate as of the period ended is 5.66%. These loans were for working capital purchases and
were guaranteed by related party Mr. Zhengyu Wang and his wife Ms. Yefang Zhang, as well related party Lisui Jiuanju Trading Co,,
Ltd., and a third-party Zhejiang Meifeng Tea Industry Co., Ltd. These loans were fully repaid upon maturity.
|
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 12 – Short-term bank loans
- continued
On September 26, 2017, the Company
entered into a short-term loan agreement with Bank of China (Lishui Branch) to borrow $2,151,800 (RMB 14 million) for a year with
a fixed rate of 6.10%. The purpose of the loan is to fund working capital needs. The loan was guaranteed by two related parties,
Zhengyu Wang and Yefang Zhang and a third party, Zhejiang Meifeng Tea Industry Co., Ltd.
On September 26, 2017, the Company
entered into a short-term loan agreement with Bank of China (Lishui Branch) to borrow $3,057,093 (RMB 19.89 million) for a year
with a fixed annual interest rate of 5.88%. The purpose of the loan is to fund working capital needs. The loan was guaranteed by
building and the Land use right with carrying value of $3,930,109 as of December 31, 2017, and two related parties, Lishui Jiuanju
Trading Co., Ltd. and Zhengyu Wang.
On March 30, 2017, Bamboo entered into a
short term loan agreement with Bank of China (Lishui Branch) to borrow $3,074,000 (or RMB 20 million) for half year period
with a fixed annual interest rate of 5.66%. The purpose of the loan was for working capital purpose. The loan was guaranteed by
a related party- Lishui Jiuanju Trading Co., Ltd. and the Company’s CEO Mr. Zhengyu Wang and his wife Ms. Yefang Zhang. The
loan was fully repaid upon maturity on September 29, 2017.
On March 30, 2017, the company entered into a short-term loan agreement with Bank of China (Lishui Branch)
to borrow $2,213,280 (or RMB 14.4 million) for half a year due on September 29, 2017 with fixed annual interest rate of 5.66%.
The purpose of the borrowing is for working capital purpose.
The
loan was guaranteed by the Company’s CEO Mr. Zhengyu Wang and his wife Ms. Yefang Zhang. The loan was fully repaid upon maturity
on September 29, 2017.
As of December 31, 2017, total
loans payable to Bank of China Lishui Branch amounted to $5,208,893.
|
(c)
|
On August 16, 2016, the Company entered into a short-term
loan agreement with Shanghai Pudong Development Bank to borrow $1,439,710 (RMB 10 million) for a year with fixed annual interest
rate of 5.046%. The purpose of the loan is to fund working capital needs. The loan was guaranteed by Tantech Energy and three
related parties, Yefang Zhang, Zhengyu Wang and Forasen Group. The loan was repaid on maturity date in 2017.
|
For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the interest expense was $479,358, $388,007 and
$349,019, respectively.
Note 13 – Bank acceptance notes
payable
Bank acceptance notes payable do not carry
a stated interest rate but have a specific due date usually for a period of one year. These notes are negotiable documents
issued by financial institutions on the Company’s behalf to vendors. These notes can either be endorsed by the vendor to
other third parties as payment or can be factored to other financial institutions before becoming due. These notes are short-term
in nature. As collateral security for financial institutions’ undertakings, the Company is required to maintain deposits
with such financial institutions in restricted cash amounts of 0% to 100% of the balances of the bank acceptance notes. As of December
31, 2017, and 2016, deposits of $3,901,526 and $328,254 were reported as restricted cash on balance sheet.
Bank acceptance notes payable consisted
of the following:
|
|
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bank acceptance notes payable issued by Bank of Hangzhou Lishui Branch
|
|
(a)
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
287,942
|
|
Letter of credit issued by Shanghai Pudong Development Bank Lishui Branch
|
|
(b)
|
|
|
3,074,000
|
|
|
|
1,439,710
|
|
Bank acceptance notes payable issued by Bank of Zhang Jiagang Yule Branch
|
|
(c)
|
|
|
3,901,526
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
|
$
|
6,975,526
|
|
|
$
|
1,727,652
|
|
|
(a)
|
Bank acceptance notes payable issued by Bank of Hangzhou, Lishui Branch have due date of March 21, 2017. The Company is required to maintain cash deposits at 100% of the notes payable with the bank, in order to ensure future credit availability. The note payable was repaid when due.
|
|
(b)
|
Letter of credit of $1,439,710 issued by Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, Lishui Branch was due date of August 16, 2017 and the Company fully repaid upon maturity. A new letter of credit of $3,074,000 was issued on August 15, 2017 and due on August 14, 2018. The letter of credit is guaranteed by a land use right and a building with a total carrying value approximately of $4.5 million and three related parties, Forasen Group, Zhengyu Wang, and Yefang Zhang.
|
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 13 – Bank acceptance notes
payable - continued
|
(c)
|
Bank acceptance notes payable issued by Bank of Zhang Jiagang Yule Branch with due dates from April 20, 2018 to July 3, 2018. The Company is required to maintain restricted cash deposits at 100% of the notes payable with the bank, in order to ensure future credit availability.
|
Note 14 – Convertible Note
On February 9, 2017, the Company entered
into a Convertible Note Agreement with ARC Capital Ltd. to secure a loan for $2,000,000, which can be converted into the Company’s
common stock after six months following the effective date, at a conversion price which is 85% of the 15 trading day average closing
price of the Company’s common stock prior to the date of Tantech receiving Notice of Conversion by Note Holder. The conversion
price shall, under no circumstances, be lower than the average closing price of the 10 trading days prior to the date of signing
of this Agreement. The term of the loan is one year, and the interest rate is 7% per annum payable at the maturity date, which
rate can be increased to 10% per annum subject to the agreement stated. On September 27, 2017, the parties mutually agreed to terminate
the Convertible Note Agreement, effective immediately. From the date the parties entered into the Convertible Note Agreement through
the dated of termination, no funds were advanced under the Convertible Note Agreement, and no amounts were due.
Note 15 – Related Party Transactions
The balances due to related parties were
as follows:
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dr. Henglong Chen and its affiliates *
|
|
$
|
240,462
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
Mr. Yulong Chen, a shareholder of the Company
|
|
|
1,537,000
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Forasen Group, controlled by Mr. Zhengyu Wang, Chairman and CEO of the Company
|
|
|
1,217,766
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
2,995,228
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
* Dr. Henglong Chen is the original shareholder
of E-Motors (Note 4). The Company acquired his 70% equity interest in E-Motors and issued 2,500,000 restricted shares of Tantech’s
common stock to him in connection with the acquisition of E-Motors.
Balances of due to the related parties
were unsecured, interest-free and due upon demand.
As of December 31, 2017, the Company had
total accounts receivable balances of $3,434,845 due from the affiliates of the original shareholders of E-Motors (see Note 6).
The Company’s major shareholder Mr.
Zhengyu Wang and his wife Ms. Yefang Zhang, as well as related party entities controlled by Mr. Wang, provided guarantees to the
Company’s bank loans and bank acceptance notes payables (Note 12 and 13).
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 16 – Commitments and Contingencies
Guaranty provided for related party
As of December 31, 2017, the Company provided
a guaranty on behalf of Forasen Group’s outstanding line of credit of $8,771,659 (RMB 57,070,000) by pledging the Company’s
building with carrying value approximately of $8.8 million as the collateral for the loan and notes. The guaranty will expire on
July 23, 2020. As of December 31, 2016, the Company provided a guaranty on behalf of Forasen Group’s outstanding line of
credit of $8,645,459 (RMB 60,050,000) by pledging the Company’s building with a net book value of approximately $4.0 million
as the collateral for the loan and notes. The guaranty on the line of credit expired on April 8, 2017.
E-Motors also leased certain factory and apartment for employees under operating leases through August
2018. The minimum lease payments under operating leases agreement were $65,131. The rental expense for the year ended December
31, 2017 was $73,184.
Note 17 – Stockholders’
equity
On March 4, 2016, the Company issued a
total of 1,693,000 shares of its common stock at $4.70 per share for $7,957,100 to various purchasers in a private placement transaction.
On December 28, 2016, the Company issued
1,018,935 shares of the Company’s common stock to acquire the 5% minority interest of Tantech Bamboo from five individual
holders. Please refer to Note 14.
On July 12, 2017, in connection of the
acquisition of E-Motors, the Company issued 2,500,000 shares of its common stock to the original shareholder of E-Motors. These
shares are restricted for minimum twelve months after the completion of the acquisition. The fair value of these shares was $6,500,000
based on the share price of $2.6 on July 12, 2017.
On September 27, 2017, the Company and
certain institutional investors entered into a securities purchase agreement in connection with the September 2017 Offering, pursuant
to which the Company agreed to sell an aggregate of 1,891,307 common shares and warrants to initially purchase an aggregate of
1,078,045 common shares, consisting of 945,654 investor warrants and 132,391 placement agent warrants. The common share purchase
price is $3.45 per common share. On September 29, 2017, the Company completed the September 2017 Offering. After deducting offering
expenses, the Company received $5,968,208 in net proceeds from the sale of the common shares.
Note 17 – Stockholders’
equity -continued
Warrants registered in September 2017 Offering
In connection with the September 2017 offering,
the Company registered and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,078,045 common shares, consisting of 945,654 investor
warrants (the “Investor Warrants”) and 132,391 placement agent warrants (the “Placement Agent Warrants”).
All warrants carry a term of 5 years. The Investor Warrants are exercisable at $4.25 per share and the Placement Agent Warrants
are exercisable at $4.675 per share. The Investor Warrants can be exercisable immediately as of the date of issuance. The Placement
Agent Warrants are not exercisable for a period of 180 days after the effective date of the offering. A holder of the warrants
also will have the right to exercise its warrants on a cashless basis if the registration statement or prospectus contained therein
is not available for the issuance of the common shares issuable upon exercise thereof. The exercisability of the warrants may be
limited if, upon exercise, the holder or any of its affiliates would beneficially own more than 4.99% of the Company’s common
shares.
Management determined that these warrants
are equity instruments because the warrants are indexed to its own stock. The warrants were recorded at their fair value on the
date of grant as a component of stockholders’ equity. As of December 31, 2017, the total number of warrants outstanding was
1,078,045 with weighted average remaining life of 5 years. No warrants were exercisable as of December 31, 2017.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 18 – Noncontrolling Interests
A reconciliation of non-controlling interest
as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 is as follows:
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beginning Balance
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
3,444,342
|
|
Noncontrolling interest through acquisition of E-Motors (Note 4)
|
|
|
9,583,646
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proportionate shares of net (loss) income
|
|
|
(754,084
|
)
|
|
|
308,442
|
|
Capital contribution by a minority shareholder
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Buyback of Noncontrolling interest (a)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(2,160,142
|
)
|
Gain on Noncontrolling interest buyback (a)
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(1,354,229
|
)
|
Foreign currency transaction adjustment
|
|
|
(30,102
|
)
|
|
|
(238,413
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
8,799,460
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
(a)
|
On June 24, 2016, Tantech BVI, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Lishui Tantech, entered into
an equity purchase agreement with the five individuals who holds the 5% equity interest of Tantech Bamboo. Pursuant to the equity
purchase agreement, Tantech BVI issued 1,018,935 shares of the Company’s common stock in consideration for the 5% equity
interest of Tantech Bamboo. The transaction was consummated on December 28, 2016. Upon the completion of the acquisition, Tantech
BVI’s equity interest in Tantech Bamboo increased from 95% to 100%. Since Tantech BVI retains its control over Tantech Bamboo
before and after the acquisition of minority interest, this change in the parent’s ownership interest shall be accounted
for as an equity transaction in accordance with FASB ASC 810-10-45. No gain or loss was recognized in the consolidated net income
or comprehensive income. The carrying amount of the previous non-controlling interest was adjusted to reflect the change in its
ownership interest in Tantech Bamboo. The difference between the fair value of the common stocks issued and the amount by which
the minority interest was adjusted was recorded as additional paid in capital.
|
Note 19 – Taxes
Taxes Payable
Taxes payable as of December 31, 2017 and
2016 consist of the following:
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporation income tax payable
|
|
$
|
551,610
|
|
|
$
|
441,084
|
|
Other tax payable
|
|
|
244,572
|
|
|
|
279,408
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
796,182
|
|
|
$
|
720,492
|
|
Corporation Income Tax (“CIT”)
Tantech BVI was incorporated in the BVI
and is not subject to income taxes under the current laws of BVI.
USCNHK and Euroasia are holding companies
registered in Hong Kong and has no operating profit for tax liabilities.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 19 – Taxes - continued
Tantech Bamboo was registered in the PRC
and is subject to corporate income tax at a reduced rate of 15% starting from 2008 when it was approved by local government as
a high-tech company.
Tantech Energy was registered in the PRC and is also subject to corporate income tax at a reduced rate
of 15% starting from 2013 when it was approved by local government as a high-tech company. Lishui Tantech Energy, Jiamu, Jiyi,
Wangbo, Bamboo Tourism, Tantech Charcoal, Tantech Babiku and Tanbo Tech are all subject to income tax at unified rate of 25%. E-Motors
was approved by local government as a high –Tech company on December 7, 2017 and was subject to income tax rate of 15%.
The impact of the tax holidays noted above
decreased foreign taxes by $899,503 and $906,131 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The benefit of the
tax holidays on net income per share (basic and diluted) was $0.03 for both years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
The following table reconciles PRC statutory
rates to the Company’s effective tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
|
|
Years
ended December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Statutory PRC income tax rate
|
|
|
25
|
%
|
|
|
25
|
%
|
|
|
25
|
%
|
Favorable tax rate impact
(a)
|
|
|
(10
|
)%
|
|
|
(10
|
)%
|
|
|
(12
|
)%
|
Permanent difference
|
|
|
2
|
%
|
|
|
1
|
%
|
|
|
5
|
%
|
Changes of deferred tax assets valuation
allowances
|
|
|
17
|
%
|
|
|
-
|
%
|
|
|
5
|
%
|
Total
|
|
|
34
|
%
|
|
|
16
|
%
|
|
|
23
|
%
|
(a) Two of the Company’s subsidiaries,
Tantech Bamboo and Tantech Energy are subject to tax rate of 15%.
The provision for income tax consisted
of the following:
|
|
Years
ended December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Current
|
|
$
|
1,334,254
|
|
|
$
|
1,465,744
|
|
|
$
|
2,115,915
|
|
Deferred
|
|
|
193,749
|
|
|
|
(98,474
|
)
|
|
|
-
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
1,528,003
|
|
|
$
|
1,367,270
|
|
|
$
|
2,115,915
|
|
Significant components of deferred tax
assets and liabilities are as follows:
|
|
December 31,
2017
|
|
|
December 31,
2016
|
|
Deferred tax assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for doubtful accounts and other reserves
|
|
$
|
1,682,706
|
|
|
$
|
564,556
|
|
Valuation allowance
|
|
|
(1,682,706
|
)
|
|
|
(470,403
|
)
|
Total
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
|
$
|
94,153
|
|
Deferred tax liability:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase in fair value of intangible assets acquired through acquisition
|
|
$
|
2,086,086
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
Total
|
|
$
|
2,086,086
|
|
|
$
|
-
|
|
At December 31, 2017, the Company has provided full valuation allowance for deferred tax assets that the
Company estimated the Company could not realize due to expected future operating loss in certain entities. As of December 31, 2017,
and 2016, the valuation allowance was $1,682,706 and $470,403, respectively, and the net change in the valuation allowance was
increased to $1,212,303 for the year ended December 31, 2017. The Company’s management reviews this valuation allowance periodically
and makes adjustments as necessary.
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 20 – Major customers and
suppliers
The Company had certain customers whose
revenue individually represented 10% or more of the Company’s total revenue, or whose accounts receivable balances individually
represented 10% or more of the Company’s total accounts receivable, as follows:
For the years ended December 31, 2017,
2016 and 2015, two major customers accounted for approximately 47%, 27% and 29% of the Company’s total sales, respectively.
As of December 31, 2017, one customers accounted for approximately 43% of the Company’s accounts receivable balance. As of
December 31, 2016, three customers accounted for approximately 33% of the Company’s accounts receivable balance.
The Company also had certain major suppliers
whose purchases individually represented 10% or more of the Company’s total purchases. For the years ended December 31,
2017, three major suppliers accounted for more than 61% of the Company’s total purchases. For the years ended December 31,
2016 and 2015, four major suppliers accounted for approximately 88% and three major suppliers accounted for approximately 61%
of the Company’s total purchases, respective.
Note 21 – Segment information
The Company uses the “management
approach” in determining reportable operating segments. The management approach considers the internal organization and
reporting used by the Company’s chief operating decision maker for making operating decisions and assessing performance
as the source for determining the Company’s reportable segments. Management, including the chief operating decision maker,
reviews operation results of consumer products, trading and electronic vehicles separately. The Company has determined that it
has three operating segments as defined by ASC 280, “Segment Reporting”: consumer products, electronic vehicles, and
trading. Consumer products segment manufactures and sells Charcoal Doctor branded products and BBQ charcoal in China. Trading
segment conducts rubber and other trading businesses. Electronic Vehicle segment (“EV”) was acquired in July 2017
(Note 4).
Adjustments and eliminations of inter-company
transactions were not included in determining segment (loss) profit, as they are not used by the chief operating decision maker.
The following table presents summary information by segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
|
|
Consumer product
|
|
|
Trading
|
|
|
EV
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Revenue from external customers
|
|
$
|
32,675,933,
|
|
|
$
|
39,978,902
|
|
|
$
|
43,235,065
|
|
|
$
|
1,829,475
|
|
|
$
|
553,693
|
|
|
$
|
3,579,471
|
|
|
$
|
8,578,988
|
|
|
$
|
43,084,397
|
|
|
$
|
40,532,595
|
|
|
$
|
46,814,536
|
|
Revenue from inter segment
|
|
|
(2,736,204
|
)
|
|
|
576,302
|
|
|
|
736,527
|
|
|
|
(24,550
|
)
|
|
|
12,345
|
|
|
|
11,988
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
(2,760,754
|
)
|
|
|
588,647
|
|
|
|
748,515
|
|
Cost of revenue
|
|
|
24,357,432
|
|
|
|
27,450,566
|
|
|
|
28,618,875
|
|
|
|
1,412,061
|
|
|
|
25,504
|
|
|
|
3,463,818
|
|
|
|
6,636,402
|
|
|
|
32,405,887
|
|
|
|
27,476,070
|
|
|
|
32,082,693
|
|
Gross profit
|
|
|
8,318,510
|
|
|
|
12,528,336
|
|
|
|
14,616,190
|
|
|
|
417,414
|
|
|
|
528,189
|
|
|
|
115,653
|
|
|
|
1,942,586
|
|
|
|
10,678,510
|
|
|
|
13,056,525
|
|
|
|
14,731,843
|
|
Interest Expenses
|
|
|
290,797
|
|
|
|
341,697
|
|
|
|
324,643
|
|
|
|
124,586
|
|
|
|
128,959
|
|
|
|
85,828
|
|
|
|
136,161
|
|
|
|
551,545
|
|
|
|
470,656
|
|
|
|
410,471
|
|
Depreciation & amortization
|
|
|
506,027
|
|
|
|
522,770
|
|
|
|
239,170
|
|
|
|
25,345
|
|
|
|
51,141
|
|
|
|
72,715
|
|
|
|
299,075
|
|
|
|
814,942
|
|
|
|
573,911
|
|
|
|
311,885
|
|
Capital expenditure
|
|
|
74,202
|
|
|
|
10,819
|
|
|
|
242,552
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
8,061
|
|
|
|
82,263
|
|
|
|
10,819
|
|
|
|
242,552
|
|
Segment assets
|
|
|
83,024,439
|
|
|
|
92,878,334
|
|
|
|
84,205,232
|
|
|
|
5,988,364
|
|
|
|
1,424,333
|
|
|
|
2,071,215
|
|
|
|
49,474,923
|
|
|
|
138,487,726
|
|
|
|
94,302,667
|
|
|
|
86,276,447
|
|
Segment profit
|
|
$
|
5,293,269
|
|
|
$
|
7,070,925
|
|
|
$
|
6,302,893
|
|
|
$
|
203,157
|
|
|
$
|
(149,755
|
)
|
|
$
|
734,126
|
|
|
$
|
(2,513,613
|
)
|
|
$
|
2,982,813
|
|
|
$
|
6,921,170
|
|
|
$
|
7,037,019
|
|
TANTECH HOLDINGS LTD AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 21 – Segment information
- continued
All of the Company's long-lived assets
are located in the PRC. Geographic information about the revenues, which are classified based on customers, is set out as
follows:
|
|
Years ended December 31,
|
|
|
|
2017
|
|
|
2016
|
|
|
2015
|
|
Revenue from China
|
|
$
|
43,084,397
|
|
|
$
|
39,976,470
|
|
|
$
|
46,114,044
|
|
Revenue directly from foreign countries
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
556,125
|
|
|
|
700,492
|
|
Total Revenue
|
|
$
|
43,084,397
|
|
|
$
|
40,532,595
|
|
|
$
|
46,814,536
|
|
Note 22 – Subsequent Events
On January. 10, 2018, the Company signed
a share purchase agreement (the “Agreement”) with Shanghai Shicai Minerals Co., Ltd. (“Shanghai Shicai”)
to acquire all of the shares of Lishui Xincai Industrial Co., Ltd. (“Lishui XinCai”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Shanghai Shicai, at a price of approximately $18.2 million (or RMB 120 million). Lishui Xincai owns 18% of the equity interest
in Libo Haokun Stone Co., Ltd. (“Libo Haokun”). Following the completion of the acquisition, the Company would indirectly
hold a 18% stake in Libo Haokun.
Libo Haokun holds a government-issued permit
and has the exclusive right to mine a 0.11-square-kilometer marble quarry in the southwestern province of Guizhou, China. According
to a geological report issued by Liaoning Nuclear Geological Survey Institute in June 2016, the quarry had estimated reserves of
approximately 4.02 million cubic meters of ores. As of the date of the valuation conducted in December 2016, the quarry had estimated
reserves of approximately 3.74 million cubic meters of ores and the corresponding mining right was valued at RMB 664.74 million.
Libo Haokun obtained the permit to mine the quarry from the local government in September 2016. The current mining permit has a
term of two years and eight months valid from September 2016 to May 2019. The mining permit may be renewed for consecutive additional
three-year terms, subject to certain conditions, such as filing renewal applications, paying license fees, and the satisfaction
of environmental protection standards, among other things.
Pursuant to the Agreement, Tantech agrees
to acquire all issued and outstanding common shares of Lishui Xincai for a total consideration of RMB 120 million in cash to be
paid in two installments. The first installment of RMB 25 million will be paid within five business days following the execution
of the Agreement. The second and final installment of RMB 95 million will be paid within thirty days after the signing of the Agreement.
The Company paid the consideration of RMB 120 million (approximately $18.4 million) in full by March 2018 in accordance with the
Agreement, mainly using funds collected from its outstanding accounts receivable. Shanghai Shicai completed the registration process
with the industrial and commerce administration of the local government before January 31, 2018, for transfer of the share ownership
of Lishui Xincai to Tantech. Tantech is now legally recognized as the shareholder of Lishui Xincai upon the completion of the share
ownership transfer registration.
From January 29, 2018 to March 30, 2018,
the Company received in aggregated of $599,430 bank acceptance notes issued by Bank of Zhangjiagang Rural Business Bank with due
dates from July 29, 2018 to September 30, 2018. The Company is required to maintain restricted cash deposits at 100% of the notes
payable with the bank, in order to ensure future credit availability.