FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – Ceylon Tobacco Company, the leading contributor to tax revenues in Sri Lanka, announced a profit of 7.69 billion rupees for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. This marks a 4.5 percent increase compared to the same quarter in the previous year.

During this three-month period, the company achieved earnings of 41.07 rupees per share, an improvement from 39.32 rupees reported in the equivalent quarter of 2025.

The company’s overall turnover for the quarter was 52.44 billion rupees, reflecting a decline from 55.14 billion rupees in the prior year’s corresponding period. Additionally, net revenue dipped slightly to 16.57 billion rupees after considering the government levies totaling 35.87 billion rupees.

Management credited the positive results to effective cost management strategies and ongoing savings programs, which helped alleviate cost challenges in a difficult economic climate. The total contribution to government revenue during the quarter amounted to 41.8 billion rupees, inclusive of various taxes and levies.

In light of the quarterly performance, the Board of Directors has proposed a second interim dividend of 41.00 rupees per share, which is set to be paid by September 14, 2026. This is in line with the company’s established dividend policy, bolstered by a robust cash and cash equivalents balance of 25.31 billion rupees as of June 30, 2026.

At the close of the period, the group’s total assets reached 45.05 billion rupees, with a net asset value per share of 57.72 rupees. British American Tobacco International Holdings B.V. continues to be the primary shareholder, holding an 84.13 percent stake in the company.

Shares of Ceylon Tobacco Company were trading up by 1.70 percent at 1,829.75 rupees. (Colombo/August 14, 2026)