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JOHANNESBURG - South African chemicals and explosives company AECI Limited (JSE:AFE) reported mixed financial results for the five months ended May 31, 2025, while highlighting progress on its strategic initiatives.
The company posted a 2% decline in revenue to R13.07 billion compared to the same period last year, according to a trading update released Monday. Despite lower revenue, EBITDA rose 12% to R1.25 billion, while profit from operations increased 17% to R800 million.
AECI attributed the improved profitability to better margin performance in its Mining division’s Asia-Pacific operations, reduced strategy implementation costs, and benefits from its Transformation Management Office initiatives. These gains were partially offset by challenges in South African operations.
The company’s net debt position improved to R3.38 billion, down from R4.74 billion a year earlier, resulting in a gearing ratio of 28%. Cash and cash equivalents increased to R2.58 billion.
AECI Mining secured four new contracts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Australia, Ghana, and Botswana, supporting its international growth strategy. However, its South African operations faced setbacks including power supply issues at its Modderfontein facility and force majeure declarations due to supplier problems.
The AECI Chemicals division continued to struggle with challenging conditions in South Africa’s manufacturing sector, including low demand for sulfuric acid and credit losses from customers entering business rescue.
Strategic milestones achieved during the period included the disposal of Much Asphalt business for R1.1 billion, progress on restructuring AECI Schirm Germany, and the merging of corporate offices. The company also reported improvements in safety metrics, with its Total (EPA:TTEF) Recordable Injury Rate decreasing to 0.21 from 0.32 in the comparative period.
AECI expects to report overall improved results for the six months ending June 30, 2025, compared to the same period last year, with interim results scheduled for publication around July 30.
The trading update was not reviewed or reported on by the company’s external auditors.
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