PACRA maintains entity ratings of NIMIR Industrial Chemicals Ltd

July 15, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA) has maintained entity ratings of NIMIR Industrial Chemicals Limited (PSX: NICL) at "A+" for long term and "A1" for short term with a stable outlook forecast, latest press release issued by PACRA showed.

NICL specializes in the manufacturing and sales of Oleochemicals and Chlor alkali products which includes Soap Noodle, Stearic acid, Glycerin, Caustic soda, and a variety of industrial chemicals.

In addition to this the Company also provides toll manufacturing services for the production of Toilet Soaps, Aerosol, Personal Care Products and Home Care Products.

The ratings reflect the firm’s strong presence in the chemical industry driven by a diversified product portfolio that benefits clients, mostly renowned multinational FMCGs.

During FY25, the country’s macroeconomic conditions started to improve, with stabilization of foreign exchange, and a gradual reduction in interest rates and inflation contributing to overall improvement in consumer confidence and buying patterns.

However, ongoing geopolitical tensions have temporarily altered consumer buying preferences toward local brands and restricted overall growth in this segment.

The chemical sector is divided into essential chemicals (e.g., Caustic Soda, Hydrochloric Acid) and non-essential chemicals (e.g., Personal and Home Care ingredients) also experienced varying demand trends.

While demand for essential chemicals remained relatively stable due to their industrial necessity, non-essential chemical segments faced muted growth as consumers prioritized basic needs over discretionary products.

During the period under review, NICL experienced a around 10% increase in its Oleochemical sales volumes, while the volumes of Chlor Alkali products declined by approximately 26%.

As a result, overall sales revenue registered a modest growth of around 3.6%, with the Company’s top line reaching around Rs32,583mn during 9MFY25 (FY24: approximately Rs41,925mn).

Margins also showed slight improvement due to cost controls at different levels.

Moreover, the Company’s effective pricing strategy indexed to dollar rates provided an added layer of protection in the time of volatility.

Recently, the Company has acquired a production facility located in Hub, Balochistan, from Procter & Gamble Pakistan Private Limited (P&G).

This strategic move is expected to enhance the Company’s production capacities, particularly in Soap Finishing and Oleochemical and will enable the Company to better meet the growing demand of its multinational clients and strengthen its presence in the southern region.

Strategically, this acquisition is also poised to generate various operational synergies and unlock new export opportunities.

The Company’s financial risk profile is characterized by moderate coverages, cashflows and working capital cycle. The capital structure is leveraged, where borrowings comprise a mix of short-term for working capital management and long-term for CAPEX.

The ratings are dependent on sustaining margins and profitability in line with business expansion. Prudent management of working capital and retaining strong coverages are critical. Successful expansion and translation of the same in revenues is important.

NICL was incorporated in 1994 as a Public Limited Company, under the Repealed Companies Ordinance, 1984.

The Company is involved in the manufacturing and sale of oleochemicals and Chlor alkali products including distilled fatty acid (DFA), Soap noodles, Stearic acid, Glycerin, Caustic soda, and a variety of industrial chemicals.

The plant currently operates with an annual capacity of around 140,000 metric tons for Oleochemical products and approximately 158,000 metric tons for Chlor alkali products.

The Board includes nine members including the CEO - Mr. Zafar Mehmood who has vast experience in the relevant field.

 Copyright Mettis Link News