Lafarge Malayan Cement Bhd's pre-tax profit increased by 21 per cent to RM69 million in the first quarter ended March 31, 2011 from RM57 million in the same period last year.

Revenue was higher by ten per cent to RM602.77 million from RM548.42 million previously, it said in a filling to Bursa Malaysia today.

The group said the increase in revenue was mainly attributable to better selling prices coupled with higher domestic sales volume.

Going forward, the group is optimistic of a stronger demand in cement and other building materials in the current financial year with more active construction activities as a result of public and private sector projects and investments.

However, the rising costs of fuel and other raw materials and the weaker US dollar might have a negative impact on export revenues, it added. -- Bernama