Tokyo — Mitsui & Co., one of Japan’s largest trading houses, reported strong financial results for the fiscal year ending March 2025, supported by resilient energy, infrastructure, and chemical businesses. The company pointed to steady revenue growth and solid profitability, despite global market uncertainty.
Mitsui, part of Japan’s traditional sogo shosha model, runs a wide portfolio that spans energy and resources, chemicals, machinery, infrastructure, consumer goods, and financial services. With investments in more than 60 countries, it remains one of Japan’s most globally integrated conglomerates.
Net profit came in at ¥1.15 trillion ($7.6 billion), lifted by the mineral and energy divisions. The figure exceeded market forecasts, reinforcing Mitsui’s ability to deliver consistent returns even when commodity prices are volatile.
Annual revenue rose to ¥14.6 trillion ($96.3 billion), thanks to robust demand in energy and machinery. Growth in Asia—especially from China and India—was cited as a key driver.
Operating cash flow reached ¥2.5 trillion ($16.5 billion), giving the group a strong balance sheet. This, Mitsui said, will support future investments in energy transition projects and digital infrastructure.
The Resources & Energy unit was the largest profit contributor, generating ¥560 billion ($3.7 billion). Gains were supported by LNG demand and steady crude prices. Mitsui is expanding LNG projects in Qatar and Mozambique to secure long-term earnings.
The Machinery & Infrastructure division earned ¥320 billion ($2.1 billion), driven by transport and logistics projects in Asia. The company highlighted rising demand for digital infrastructure such as data centers.
The Chemicals unit posted ¥190 billion ($1.25 billion) in net profit. Stable margins in specialty chemicals and plastics helped offset raw material volatility. Mitsui stressed its focus on higher-value chemical products as a competitive buffer.
The Lifestyle & Consumer arm delivered a smaller contribution of ¥85 billion ($560 million), though food-related and sustainable products were flagged as growth areas.
Sustainability remains a strategic priority. Mitsui is investing in offshore wind farms in Europe and solar projects in Asia to gradually shift its energy portfolio.
For FY2025, the company guided net profit of ¥1.2 trillion ($7.9 billion), expecting continued support from energy and infrastructure. Management emphasized that its diversified portfolio will help cushion external risks.
Returns to shareholders are also rising. The annual dividend was raised to ¥160 per share ($1.05), up from ¥140 ($0.92) last year. Mitsui also launched a ¥150 billion ($990 million) share buyback program.
Despite concerns over slowing global growth, executives struck a confident note. LNG demand and digital infrastructure were highlighted as reliable profit engines, supported by the firm’s strong risk management practices.
Beyond its core businesses, Mitsui is pushing into healthcare and digital solutions. New investments include biotech ventures and AI-driven logistics platforms, underscoring a shift toward future-ready industries.
