France-based timber producer and importer Rougier has achieved a 7.7% growth in sales to €37.2m for the first quarter.
Rougier’s main Africa International division posted sales of €28.3m, up 12.6%, thanks to industrial activity and trade benefitting from improved land and port logistics.
But business in Gabon suffered a “difficult environment” because of disruption caused by the African Nations Cup in January and a main bridge collapse in March.
Log sales rocketed 42.9% to €11m, reflecting the high level of shipments from Cameroon and Congo.
Sawn timber sales, which represent 48% of total consolidated revenue, dropped 4.6% due to a high comparison figure in the first quarter of 2011 (up 29.6%) coupled with lower levels of processing in Gabon.
Panels sales rose marginally to €8.1m.
Rougier has a capital investment strategy focused on developing industrial competitiveness and value-added products.
