AstraZeneca 1999 AGM Trading Statement

AstraZeneca 1999 AGM Trading Statement* AstraZeneca: off to a firm start First quarter Pharmaceutical sales grew by 18% (17% at constant currency) with this trend being broadly maintained in April. Sales growth in the USA was 18%, in Europe 20% (17% at constant currency) and in Japan 14% (5% at constant currency). GI sales increased by 24% (24% at constant currency). Losec sales in the first quarter remained strong with growth of 24% (24% at constant currency). The rate of growth slowed slightly during April. Following March's price increase in the USA, a smoother pattern of sales is expected through the second quarter and should avoid the surge in sales which occurred in the comparable period last year. Cardiovascular sales increased by 18% (16% at constant currency). Zestril sales for the first quarter grew by 18% (16% at constant currency). In the USA renewal of annual contracts at competitive prices secured higher volume; Zestril increased by a further 0.5% its leading US market share to 23.2%. Oncology sales grew by 11 % (10% at constant currency); Respiratory sales increased by 13% (11% at constant currency); Hospital & Specialist sales increased by 14 % (14% at constant currency). Agrochemicals' sales in the first quarter were down 3% (down 5% at constant currency). Low commodity prices and delayed planting led to a very slow start to the season in North America. Economic uncertainty in Latin America adversely affected demand although there has been some recovery in Asia. Sales in Europe remained firm, up 3% (unchanged at constant currency). There has been little change to this pattern since March. Following the announced disposal of Specialties an exceptional after tax gain of approximately $150 million is expected to be accounted for in the half year results for 1999. Exceptional items at the half year will also include charges relating to the merger. * Reflects the merged results of AstraZeneca, reported in US-dollars. Percentage increases are based on pro forma combined results for 1998. Historical data from 1995 to 1998, including quarterly results for 1998, will be made available on the company website from 24 May 1999. For further investor/analyst enquiries: Elizabeth Sutton +44 171 304 5101Michael Olsson +46 8 553 259 52 Ed Seage +1 302 886 4065 Jörgen Winroth +1 609 896 4148 ------------------------------------------------------------ Please visit http://www.bit.se for further information The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/05/21/19990521BIT00300/bit0001.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/05/21/19990521BIT00300/bit0002.pdf