Yili Reports First-Half 2026 Results: Growth in Both Revenue and Core Operating Profit

Yili Group, based in Hohhot, China, announced its financial performance for the first half of 2026 on August 26, reporting a rise in both total revenue and core operating profit. The company generated RMB 64.49 billion in revenue, marking a 4.13% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Its core operating profit reached RMB 8.38 billion, reflecting a 10% year-on-year growth. This performance solidified Yili’s position as Asia’s leading dairy company in terms of revenue and core operating profit. The core operating profit margin increased by 66 basis points to 13%, demonstrating improved efficiency and profitability. Over the past two years, Yili achieved revenue growth despite broader industry trends, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.75%. The company also unveiled plans to implement a share repurchase and cancellation program worth up to RMB 2 billion. It pledged to maintain a dividend payout ratio of at least 75% moving forward. Since its initial public offering, Yili has distributed cumulative dividends totaling RMB 67.295 billion. This commitment underscores the company’s focus on shareholder returns and long-term stability. Yili’s three primary business segments, liquid milk, milk powder and dairy products, and ice cream, all showed consistent growth and retained top positions within China. The liquid milk division recorded positive growth for the second consecutive quarter, reinforcing its dominance in the sector. The infant formula segment expanded its market share, securing the number one spot in China by retail sales value. Meanwhile, the adult milk powder business remained the leading player in the country. Ice cream revenue surged at a double-digit pace, maintaining Yili’s leadership in the Chinese ice cream industry for the 31st consecutive year. New product lines contributed 15.8% of the company’s overall revenue during the reporting period. Domestically, Yili’s growth was complemented by expanding international operations. In Indonesia, ice cream sales increased by roughly 20% year on year, while revenue in the Philippines more than doubled. In North America, Yili’s products across multiple categories gained traction in mainstream retail channels. These developments highlight the company’s increasing presence in foreign markets and its ability to adapt to diverse consumer preferences. Yili’s subsidiary, Ausnutria, played a pivotal role in the company’s global expansion. It intensified efforts in the Middle East, enhancing its market share there, while simultaneously accelerating entries into Eastern Europe and other regions. In Canada, Ausnutria saw revenue grow by 30% compared to the prior year, showcasing robust performance in this key market. These strategic moves reflect Yili’s broader ambition to diversify its geographic reach and leverage regional opportunities. In addition to its core businesses, Yili pursued innovation through high-value-added products and ingredients. Utilizing its operations in New Zealand, the company focused on transitioning toward premium protein offerings, aligning with the global demand for high-quality proteins. This initiative allowed Yili to supply essential ingredients to international markets. During the first half of 2026, the New Zealand operations surpassed their business targets, contributing positively to the company’s overall performance. Looking ahead, Yili expressed confidence in sustaining double-digit growth in its overseas business throughout the year. The company outlined plans to progressively enter high-potential markets such as Africa and the Middle East. As its international footprint grows, Yili expects the overseas business to provide continuous and reliable growth support for its strategic goals over the next five years.