(AOF) – Sapmer revealed a net result, group share of 0.8 million euros in the first half compared to 6.7 million euros a year earlier. The operating profit of the specialist in large-scale fishing in the waters of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands also fell, falling from 12.1 to 4.3 million euros between the first half of 2022 and the first half of 2023. Revenues increased by a little more than 3% to 78.6 million euros.
Regarding its outlook, Sapmer specifies that the impact of the operational performance of the three tuna vessels under the Mauritian flag on the group’s profitability will remain unfavorable until the end of 2023.
Consequently, Sapmer is preparing to sell its three tuna vessels under the Mauritian flag and announces the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the potential buyer specializing in tuna fishing in South America for their sale. Delivery of the three vessels is expected to take place between November 2023 and January 2024, subject to the lifting of the suspensive conditions.
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Soaring energy prices and a call for help
In the past, energy represented a fixed cost of 3% of turnover. This year, this percentage rises to 5% or even 7% for VSE-SMEs, according to Ania (National Association of Food Industries. Professionals are very worried because until the end of 2022 they generally benefit from coverage to cushion these increases. However, they are not renewed for 2023 and after. Consequently, 25 of the main inter-professional organizations (Intercéales, Inaporc, Semae, etc.) are calling on the State for help in the face of the erosion of their margins and their capacity to investment.
The State has proposed several devices, including an “electricity shock absorber”, which are considered insufficient. The organizations also deplore the failure of European negotiations to achieve a price shield to avoid distortions of competition. Agriculture and agri-food demand a maximum ceiling price of €180/MWh while many companies buy at prices above €500/MWh on the French market.