According to the press communiqué Marine Harvest ASA states that the company has registered an operational EBIT of 569 million in the fourth quarter 2009, compared to NOK 317 million in the corresponding quarter in 2008. The earning per share has increased from NOK -0.18 to NOK 0.15.
As the result was strong and balance sheet was strengthened with improved earnings the Board of Directors has resolved to propose for the AGM a dividend of NOK 0.35 per share of which 0.25 will be distributed after the AGM in May and NOK 0.05 in each of the third and fourth quarters.
The company has posted operating revenues of NOK 3 767 million (NOK 4 042 million) in the fourth quarter 2009, with operational EBIT of NOK 569 million (NOK 317 million). It is said that the fall in operating revenues is mainly due to reduced harvest volumes in Marine Harvest Chile and currency effects. CEO of Marine Harvest ASA, Åse Aulie Michelet said that the results for the fourth quarter 2009 were satisfactory. He added that there were significant improvements in specifically Marine Harvest Scotland, Marine Harvest Chile and Marine Harvest VAP Europe contributed to improved profitability.
The good results in this quarter confirm the turnaround of Marine Harvest in 2009. We have embarked on 2010 from a significantly strengthened financial position with stronger performance in most business units. I expect continued solid demand for seafood.
