Essex Bio-Tech expects H1 revenue down about 10%, profit down about 30% on China VAT hike

• Essex Bio-Technology flagged a weaker 1H 2026, projecting revenue down about 10% to around HK$788.85 million.
• Profit expected to fall about 30% to roughly HK$114.38 million versus HK$163.4 million a year earlier.
• Shortfall tied to China’s new VAT law, lifting VAT on ordinary biological products to 13% from an optional 3%.
• Pricing locked under China’s centralized procurement system, limiting pass-through of higher VAT on Beifushu and Beifuji product lines.
• Cash and cash equivalents stood at about HK$807 million as of June 30, 2026.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Essex Bio-Technology Limited published the original content used to generate this news brief via IIS, the regulatory disclosure system operated by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKex) (Ref. ID: HKEX-EPS-20260717-12248398), on July 17, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.