Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd has reported a pre-tax profit of RM1.466 billion on the back of a revenue of RM4.389 billion
for the first quarter ended March 31, 2012.

The group achieved improved results for the current quarter compared to the preceding quarter on the back of better operational performance amidst a challenging market environment, it said in a statement.

Revenue grew by 12 per cent compared with the preceding quarter, driven by a 23 per cent increase in sales volume.

The higher sales volumes moderated the impact of lower average product prices by six per cent and exchange rate movements, it added.

Moving forward, the group expects to focus on delivering operational excellence to optimise its production amid market challenges. -- Bernama