Lucky Core Industries Limited: performance and outlook

According to Business Recorder, Lucky Core Industries Limited (PSX: LCI) has reported weaker figures for the first nine months of the current fiscal year. Net sales fell 7.22 percent to Rs85,445.75 million, while net profit dropped 24.58 percent to Rs6,693.811 million. Earnings per share came to Rs14.50, against Rs19.22 in the same period last year.

The fall was linked to a flood of cheaper imports after the 2025 federal budget trimmed import duties, along with weak demand, floods and prolonged rain. Pharmaceutical and animal health sales rose by 10 and 19 percent, while polyester, soda ash and chemicals and agri science sales declined. Gross profit fell 12 percent, with gross margin slipping to 21.51 percent from 22.68 percent, and administrative expenses rose 15.95 percent.

Over 2021 to 2025, the company's topline grew in every year except 2025, when it slipped 0.37 percent to Rs120,013.16 million. The company will keep leveraging its diversified business portfolio, and commissioning of an animal health plant in Sheikhupura will add depth to its sales mix. The report also noted that Middle East tensions and higher crude oil prices would weaken industrial activity, while tariff changes have eased low-cost imports and sharpened competition for local firms.