OREANDA-NEWS. In the reporting period ASTARTA increased revenues by 15% to 164 million EUR and EBITDA by 7% to 77 million EUR.

Sugar segment

Driven by expansion of client base and strengthening of cooperation with retail chains, ASTARTA increased volumes of sugar sales by 31%. Volumes of sugar exports grew by 20%. Revenues in the segment expanded 21%. In a few weeks time a new sugar production campaign will start. Sugar beet condition in our fields is regarded as good and we are now focusing on proper preparation of plants.

Agricultural segment

Despite decrease in volumes of crop sales by 17% driven by slim harvest in 2012, revenues in the segment remained stable. Almost half of grains and oilseeds sold in the reporting period were exported. Proper application of modern agri technologies in ASTARTA and favorable weather conditions in this season provided for the material increase in yields of main crops. Total harvest of grain crops is expected to reach 900 thousand tonnes.

Cattle farming segment

Revenues in the segment grew by 25%. Volumes of milk sales increased by 8%. Consistent improvements in the segment provided for dynamic growth of cow livestock headcount and milk yields.

New projects

A lot of effort is being made for the timely industrial commissioning of two new facilities: a biogas production plant and soybean processing mill. Construction and fitting on the sites is being performed according to a plan, and both plants shall be launched in autumn. When fully operational, these facilities will strongly contribute to business diversification and increased energy efficiency.