ZIMBABWE Stock Exchange-listed agro-industrial concern Aico Africa Limited after-tax loss for the half-year to September remained flat at $27,1 million compared to the same period last year due to improved performance in some of its operations, a company official has said. Victoria Mtomba Business Reporter
Aico’s chief executive officer Patrick Devenish told sister paper NewsDay that the company’s performance for the first half of the year was weighed down by subdued agriculture.
“Seed Co performed well and Olivine performance has improved although it’s still loss-making. The issue is basically about timing,” he said.
The seed producing company posted a 6% decline in revenue to $51 million from $54 million due to a slump in sales volume to 36 094. Operating loss for the group stood at $17,1 million, 6% lower than last year.
Aico said liquidity constraints continued to hamper economic activity and the increases in non-performing loans showed operational challenges in commerce and industry.
“Similarly, the economy is showing signs of stagnation, punctuated by looming company closures and high unemployment, both of which are dampening the country’s economic outlook,” the company said.
In a statement accompanying the financials, Aico said the conclusion of the restructuring and fundraising project would unbundle the group to improve operating efficiencies.
“With the fundraising project earmarked predominantly for the Cotton Company of Zimbabwe Limited, we anticipate recovery and a rebounding of business going forward,” the company said.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Aico said although Seed Co was expected to continue growing in the outlook, Olivine still needed to be recapitalised.
The company said seed cotton intake fell to 34 500 tonnes during the period under review driven by a very low national crop size, while the market share for cotton fell to 24% from 42% last year.
Maize seed sales increased by 17% and winter cereal sales increasing by 34% over last year.
