Noble Group (SGX: N21), the global supply chain manager of agricultural, metals, minerals and ores, and energy products, says it achieved a revenue of US$31.2 billion ($44 billion) fiscal 2009 supported by record group tonnage volumes.

Noble says it handled 180.3 million tonnes, an increase of 27% compared to the year 2008. Despite the weak economic environment, six of Noble’s key business divisions including: Oil, Gas & Power; Coal & Coke; Iron Ore; Aluminum; Sugar; and Chartering reported record tonnage volume levels.

Group gross profit was US$1,105 million with a group gross profit margin of 3.5%.

Group net profit was US$556 million for the year 2009 just slightly below the record net profit level of US$577 million in 2008. Excluding one-off items, adjusted net profit was US$430 million compared to US$438 million for the year 2008.

The group’s adjusted net profit margin improved to 1.38% for the year 2009 compared to 1.21% for the year 2008.

Chairman Richard Elman says, “Noble’s 2009 results demonstrate the breadth of our business platform. We have a focused business strategy, one where we continue to expand our production and sourcing in low cost markets for delivery to high growth demand markets. We have built a diversified business mix across all major bulk commodities, and now with the expansion of our Oil, Gas & Power activities, we see another opportunity to build a global business.”

Noble says Fiscal 2009 has been particularly noteworthy as the group has been able to conclude several landmark transactions, including the investment by the China Investment Corporation.

The group’s also successful completed a 10-year bond issue of US$850 million which was accompanied a repurchase of US$488 million in existing bond debt which lengthened its debt maturity profile.

During the year, the group also signed over US$3 billion in new or extended committed credit facilities which created additional liquidity and funding for growth as well.