Trading Statement

RNS Number:3241K
KBC Advanced Technologies PLC
24 April 2003

KBC Advanced Technologies plc

AGM Statement and Trading Update

24 April 2003




In our Chairman's statement published in March 2003, we referred to the
uncertain outlook facing KBC in 2003. In particular the order book brought
forward from the previous year was low and it has declined further during the
first quarter of the year. No new work has been possible in the Middle East and
the continued economic downturn has meant that contract awards elsewhere have
also been weak.


The sales pipeline for the long term remains strong and it is currently expected
that we will see awards and workload pick up during the second half of 2003.
Hence, although control of costs remains a priority, the Board does not intend
to make any further significant cuts in staffing levels at this stage which
would impair KBC's ability to execute the level of work in prospect.


As a consequence it is currently expected that KBC will make a loss in the first
half of 2003 before operating exceptional charges. Although an improvement in
operating performance is expected in the second half of the year, it is expected
that operating profits for the full year will be broadly in line with those
achieved during 2002.


In the light of the current trading performance the Board will undertake an
immediate review of the strategic options for the business. This review will
consider all options available to the Board to maximise the full potential for
the business and value for shareholders. Cazenove & Co Ltd, the group's
financial advisers, will assist the Board in this process.




Enquiries:

KBC Advanced Technologies plc               01932 242424

Philip Rogerson, Chairman

Nicholas Stone, Finance Director

Cazenove & Co Ltd                         020 7588 2828

Nick Wiles

Nick Tulloch



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