Ljubljana/Ajdovščina/Celje, 21 May (STA) - Chemical company Cinkarna Celje posted a net profit of over EUR 6 million for the first quarter of 2025, a four-fold increase on the year before. Sales rose 22% to EUR 58 million, driven by higher volumes and higher prices of titanium dioxide pigment, its main product, shows the company's report for the first quarter released on Wednesday.
Earnings before tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) increased by 150% to EUR 12 million and operating profit (EBIT) rose six-fold to EUR 8 million.
The company says it has benefited from permanent anti-dumping measures on Chinese imports of titanium dioxide pigment put in place at the beginning of 2025.
However, Chinese manufacturers continue to proactively seek ways to enter the European market, often with lower prices, which puts additional pressure on the margins of European manufacturers.
At the same time, it has faced uncertainty in Europe due to modest economic growth and weak demand, and high energy prices.
Demand will remain subdued, as key end-user sectors, such as construction and coatings, continue to operate at low capacity.
The outlook for 2025 also remains cautious, as customers are holding back due to the uncertain economic outlook and high inventories.
