Asia Pacific Breweries (APB) says it posted a 48% gain in attributable net profit before exceptional items (APBE) to $134.7 million for the six months ended 31 March 2010 (H1FY2010) from $91 million in H1FY2009.

Group revenue grew to $1.25 billion, which is 17% higher than the same period last year, mainly due to higher volumes.

New Zealand registered a PBIT growth of 52% mainly due to a 4% volume gain, a favourable sales mix and the appreciation of the New Zealand dollar.

Malaysia’s PBIT increased 33%, owing to a 9% volume growth and lower marketing expenditure. Meanwhile, Thailand’s PBIT rose 9% due to lower marketing expenditure and overheads as well as a 1% volume increase.

Mongolia recorded a PBIT of $2.3 million as compared to a loss of $9.1 million. This was attributable to a volume increase of 59% and an exchange gain of $1.5 million from the currency realignment of the US dollar loans compared to an exchange loss of $8.6 million last year.

APB’s directors have recommended an interim dividend of 14 cents per share, tax exempt (one-tier), to be paid on 23 June 2009.