In accordance with the Ljubljana Stock Exchange Rules and the applicable legislation CINKARNA Celje, d.d., Kidričeva ulica 26, 3000 Celje hereby publishes Unaudited Report on Cinkarna Celje's Performance for the Period January - June 2025.

In the first half of 2025, Cinkarna Celje achieved above-average business results for the industry through a proactive approach and adaptability. By diversifying market activities and strengthening its presence, particularly in stable, regulatory-protected, and long-term prospective markets, the company not only maintained business stability but also exceeded the results of its business plan.

Sales revenues in the first half of the year reached EUR 111.5 million, representing an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. Net profit amounted to EUR 12.3 million, which is 66% higher than in the comparable period of the previous year. In the first half of 2025, Cinkarna Celje generated EBITDA of EUR 22.9 million, an increase of 48% compared to the same period last year.

These results, however, do not represent a forecast for the full year, as uncertainties in international markets, a volatile macroeconomic environment, and competitive pressures continue to intensify. Economic growth in the EU remained low in the first half of the year, with stagnant industrial production and subdued demand, particularly in the coatings sector for construction applications. While inflation has somewhat eased, costs remain higher than last year, restraining investments and reducing overall purchasing power. Chinese producers of titanium dioxide, despite the introduction of anti-dumping measures, continue to seek new ways to sell on the European market, further increasing competitive pressure. The full effects of import tariffs cannot yet be assessed and are expected to become clearer in the coming quarters. The company will continue to pursue new business opportunities in markets that provide a more favourable environment for Western producers.

Also significant is the decision of the European Court, which annulled the classification of certain forms of TiO from the list of hazardous substances. The company expects this ruling to simplify regulatory requirements and provide a more stable regulatory environment for the industry, which is crucial for sound business planning, openness to development, and innovation.

Upon the publication of the semi-annual results, President of the Management Board, Aleš Skok, emphasized: »In the second half of the year, Cinkarna Celje will remain focused on high-capacity utilization, cost efficiency, and market discipline, with the aim of maintaining business stability in a challenging and uncertain market environment. At present, we estimate that with this approach we will succeed in exceeding the planned profit.”

Cinkarna Celje will also present the results of the first half-year at the webcast of the Slovenian Listed Companies Association, organized by the Ljubljana Stock Exchange (LJSE), which will take place on 4 September this year.

The report will be available on the company's website (www.cinkarna.si) from 27 August 2025 onwards, for a period of at least 10 years.