Leading Sri Lankan conglomerate Hayleys PLC’s profits after tax rose by 8% Year-on-Year (YoY) to reach Rs. 1.1 billion during the quarter ended 31st December 2016 (3Q16).

Revenue during the quarter increased by a sharp 27% YoY up to Rs. 30 billion buoyed by strong performances across in the Group’s Agriculture, Construction Materials , Transportation & Logistics, and Hand Protection segments, while Operating profits expanded by 24% YoY, reflecting strong growth in core operating activities.

For the 9 month period Profit after tax (PAT) stood at Rs. 2.7 billion, reflecting a 11% reduction from the previous year.

Strong performances were recorded across the Group’s Agriculture Sector with PAT in the segment increased from Rs. 543 million up to Rs. 667 million. Hayleys’ Hand Protection business posted impressive turnover growth, increasing rapidly from Rs. 9 billion up to Rs. 10.9 billion while the segment’s profits increased to Rs. 390 million, as compared with a previous Rs. 225 million in 2015.

The Group’s Construction Materials sector performed well to record a substantial growth in profits reaching Rs. 491 million.

The continued troubles in the Plantation sector, as experienced across the industry, acted as a drag on profitability for the Group during the 9 month period while the finance cost increased mainly due to increase in rates and the strategic investments carried out by the Group.

“The Hayleys Group remains strongly focused for growth, innovation and prosperity within the Sri Lankan economy. During the period in review, the Group continued its pioneering efforts to generate new opportunities for growth and establish new benchmarks in terms of innovation and value addition to local raw materials.”