August 20, 2002	Tuesday	Jamadi-us-Saani 10, 1423

KARACHI, Aug 19: Reckitt Benckiser Pakistan posted pre-tax profit at Rs118.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2002 against Rs50.9 million in the similar half term of 2001. After tax profit was up to Rs68.4 million, from Rs26.7 million.

A press release issued by the company stated that following the turnabout in 2001, Reckitt Benckiser continued to improve its performance, which was reflected in the growth in sales and profit in the first half. Overall sales grew to Rs1.23 billion, which reflected a rise of 13 per cent over 2001.

The household segment had shown significant growth helped by new product development. Household sales improved 27.6 per cent with operating profit of Rs33.9 million versus a loss of Rs44.9 million in the first half of 2001.

Sabir Sami, chief executive, said that the company had confidence of achieving targets for full year.

Business had maintained the level of liquidity of funds despite the increase in sales and introduction of new products.