AstraZeneca sales rise 3 per cent

AstraZeneca’s sales rose three per cent in 2008, according to the group’s fourth-quarter and full-year results.

The company also reported its dividend increased ten per cent to $2.05 (1.43 pounds) over the 12 months, while net debt was reduced by $1.9 billion, following “strong cash performance and investment discipline”.

AstraZeneca’s operating profit however fell from $1.929 billion to $1.89 billion, an annual reduction of two per cent and a constant exchange rate drop of nine per cent.

Commenting on the figures, chief executive officer David Brennan noted the company had produced “robust performances”, in consideration to the current economic climate.

He added: “I am particularly pleased with our continued success in globalising our business,” highlighting sales increased 16 per cent to $4.27 million in emerging markets over the year.

In October, third-quarter and nine-month results announced by the organisation reported sales increased nine per cent from $7.15 million to $7.775 million.