"KONCAR" CONCERN SATISFIED WITH THIS YEAR'S BUSINESS RESULTS

ZAGREB, Dec 19 (Hina) - Companies from Croatia's Koncar concern will this year sell 1.37 billion kuna (approx. USD167.69 million) worth of products and services, which is 11.4% more than last year, the head of the concern's management board, Darinko Bago, said at a news conference on Wednesday. The concern plans a growth of 7.6 percent in sales as against this year, Bago said. Koncar, which manufactures industrial machines and household appliances, will wrap up this fiscal year with a profit of 4.1 million kuna (approx. USD501,835), while profits in 2002 are expected to amount to five million kuna, Bago said. Of this year's total sales, the concern has realised 629.8 million kuna or 46% on foreign markets, with an 18% increase in exports. European markets account for 76% of all exports while African countries, North America and the Middle East account for the remaining 24%. This year's sales on the domestic market are expected to reach 736.7 million kuna, which is six percent more than last year. The concern's contracts at the end of this year will amount to 603 million kuna, Bago said, adding this was 194 million kuna or 47% more than at the end of last year. Koncar's plans for next year include increased presence on the computer and telecommunications markets, particularly as regards personal and business computers and mobile and fixed communication. (hina) sb rml