Century Paper & Board Mills Limited: performance and outlook

Business Recorder reported on the performance and outlook of Century Paper & Board Mills Limited, a Lakson Group company that makes paper, board and related products. For 2026, net sales rose 3.81 percent to Rs38,699.44 million, helped by stronger market activity and higher production and sales volume. Gross profit, however, fell 4.15 percent and the gross margin dropped to 6.60 percent, its lowest level in the period reviewed.

The company posted a net loss of Rs58.293 million for 2026, though this was 83.12 percent narrower than the year before, with a loss per share of Rs0.15. Profit before tax rose to Rs514.391 million, but adjustments to deferred tax assets linked to adjustable turnover tax balances turned the result into a loss. Other income climbed 61.30 percent, while other expense jumped 122.74 percent, which the report links to exchange loss.

Looking ahead, the report says FMCG demand is improving, particularly in food, beverages and tobacco, but the Middle East crisis has pushed up fuel and raw material prices. It also flags that higher working capital needs and the reversal of monetary easing could add pressure on the company's financial performance. Shareholding data as of June 30 2025 shows associated companies and related parties holding 68.66 percent.