DeBeers earnings halved to start 2012

摘要

De Beers, the world's largest diamond producer by value, said earnings halved in the first six months of the year, compared to a bumper start to last year, amid tough trading conditions with the remainder of 2012 set to remain challenging.De Beers, which vies with Russia's Ai-rosa for the title of the world's largest diamond producer, said profit before finance charges and taxation for the first half totalled SUS502 million, from $US1.02 billion reaped in the first six months of 2011.Total sales dipped to $US3.3 billion from $US3.9 billion in the first half a year ago, while diamond production dipped to 13.4 met as the producer continued to focus on repairs and maintenance, while it awaits improved demand from key clients, known as sight-holders.