Alliance One International reported an operating loss of nearly USD 8 million (EUR 6 million) for the three months to 30 June, influenced by restructuring costs, currency rate fluctuations and unrecovered advances to Zambian farmers.

Sales rose 7.3 per cent to USD 384 million due to delayed shipments from the fiscal year ended 31 March, primarily from Europe and Asia, the company said. Undersupply of burley and higher quality flavoured tobaccos continues, Alliance said.