SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 6-K REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the month of September, 2004 CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES COMPANY LIMITED (Translation of registrant's name into English) Baiyun International Airport Guangzhou, People's Republic of China (Address of principal executive offices) (Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.) Form 20-F. X Form 40-F. ------------ ------------ (Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.) Yes . No. X ------------- ------------- (If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82-________.) China Southern Airlines Company Limited (the "Company") on or around September 8, 2004 distributed its Interim Report for the six months ended June 30, 2004, in English and Chinese to its shareholders. A copy of the Interim Report (in English) is included in this Form 6-K of the Company. 1 All Shareholders: The Board of Directors of China Southern Airlines Company Limited (the "Company") is pleased to announce the unaudited operating results of the Company and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Group") for the six months ended 30 June, 2004. INTRODUCTION The Group is one of the largest airlines in the People's Republic of China ("PRC") in terms of volume of passenger traffic, number of scheduled flights per week, number of hours flown, route networks and size of aircraft fleet. The Group operates the most extensive route network among all PRC airlines. As of 30 June, 2004, the Group operated a total of 311 routes, of which 248 were domestic, 18 were Hong Kong regional and 45 were international. For the six months ended 30 June, 2004, the Group operated an average of 5,116 scheduled flights per week, serving 95 cities. As of 30 June, 2004, the Group operated a fleet of 139 aircraft, of which 113 were Boeing aircraft and 24 were Airbus aircraft. The average age of the fleet was 8.02 years as of 30 June, 2004. BUSINESS OVERVIEW In the first half of 2004, with the economy of the PRC entering into a new growth cycle, the demand for air transportation has continued to increase following the growth trend in the aviation transportation market which extended from the second half of last year. The Group's business benefited from such growth, with the result that the Group recorded different levels of increases in its passenger volume and passenger load factor, and a net profit of RMB266 million in the first half of this year. Since last year, the political tension in the Middle East has continued which led to a surge in oil price and in turn caused an increase in the Group's fuel cost. On the premise of ensuring flight safety, the Group has adopted various technical measures to reduce fuel consumption. These measures include making accurate flight plan and minimizing turnaround time. Meanwhile, the Group has taken a series of fuel-saving measures such as refueling in areas where the fuel price is relatively low, so as to minimize the rise in costs. With the approval of the State Council, the Proposal on Price Reform for Domestic Operation of Civil Airlines [CHINESE CHARACTERS] was implemented on 20 April, 2004, pursuant to which, indicative air ticket prices set by the PRC government apply to domestic airline operations. The PRC government pricing authority shifted its function from direct determination of air ticket prices to indirect supervision through setting of basic prices and their floating ranges. Chinese airlines can, within the ranges stipulated by the government pricing authority, determine their air ticket prices autonomously according to market situations, so that flexible sales strategies may be adopted for the purpose of maximizing profits. Chinese airlines therefore have greater autonomy in their operations. Taking advantage of the proposal above, the Group's overall passenger revenue increased as a result of adjustment of the air ticket pricing system. The Group is confident to develop its business operations through fair and healthy competition in a market that is becoming further structured. For the period under review, the Group's total traffic revenue was RMB10,834 million, an increase of RMB4,296 million or 65.7% from the same period last year. Meanwhile, the Group's total traffic volume increased by 53.5% to 2,186 million RTKs. The aggregate utilisation rate of the Group's Boeing and Airbus aircraft was 9.40 hours per day for the period under review, an increase of 2.07 hours or 28.2% from the same period last year. Passenger revenue for the period under review was RMB9,776 million, up 74.1% from the same period last year, representing 90.2% of the Group's total traffic revenue. Passenger traffic volume increased by 70.7% to 17,242 million RPKs. 2 Domestic passenger revenue was RMB7,882 million, up 74.7% from the same period last year. Domestic passenger revenue accounted for 80.6% of overall passenger revenue. Passenger capacity, in terms of ASKs, increased by 48.2% while passenger traffic volume, in terms of RPKs, increased by 72.3% from the same period last year, resulting in an increase in passenger load factor of 9.4 percentage points to 67.7%. The passenger yield per RPK increased by 1.8% from RMB0.57 to RMB0.58, mainly as a result of recording the contributions to the CAAC infrastructure development fund as an operating expense instead of being netted off with traffic revenue during the period under review. On Hong Kong regional routes, the Group recorded passenger revenue of RMB535 million, up 82.6% from the same period last year. Hong Kong regional passenger revenue accounted for 5.5% of total passenger revenue. Passenger capacity, in terms of ASKs, increased by 59.4% while passenger traffic volume, in terms of RPKs increased by 95.6% from the same period last year, resulting in an increase in passenger load factor of 11.5 percentage points to 61.9%. The passenger yield per RPK decreased by 7.0% to RMB0.93 mainly due to intensified competition. Passenger revenue for the Group's international routes amounted to RMB1,359 million, an increase of 67.2% from the same period last year. International passenger revenue accounted for 13.9% of total passenger revenue. Passenger capacity, in terms of ASKs, increased by 44.3% while passenger traffic volume, in terms of RPKs, increased by 60.4% from the same period last year, resulting in an increase in passenger load factor of 6.2 percentage points to 62.2%. The passenger yield per RPK increased by 4.7% to RMB0.45 mainly as a result of recording the contributions to the CAAC infrastructure development fund as an operating expense instead of being netted off with traffic revenue during the period under review. Cargo and mail revenue was RMB1,058 million, an increase of 14.8% from the same period last year. Cargo and mail revenue accounted for 9.8% of total traffic revenue. Cargo and mail volume grew by 23.8% to 646 million RTKs from the same period last year, mainly due to the increase in traffic volume. The overall yield per cargo and mail tonne kilometre decreased by 7.3% to RMB1.64, mainly due to the decrease in fares resulting from intensified competition from other modes of transportation. The Group's other revenue amounted to RMB260 million, an increase of 33.0% from the same period last year, primarily due to increases in commission income of RMB22 million and ground service income of RMB24 million, as a result of the increase in traffic volume. Total operating expenses increased by 27.5% to RMB10,339 million from the same period last year, primarily due to increases in aircraft repairs and maintenance expenses, fuel cost, landing and navigation fees and commission expenses resulting from the increase in traffic volume during the period under review. Flight operations expenses increased by 34.3% to RMB4,722 million from the same period last year. Of these expenses, fuel cost was RMB2,712 million, up 45.8% from the same period last year, mainly as a result of increases in fuel consumption and fuel prices. Aircraft insurance costs decreased by 31.5% to RMB85 million, primarily due to a decrease in aircraft insurance premiums prescribed by the PRC insurance company. Operating lease payments increased by 0.9% to RMB828 million, mainly due to the net effect of additional rental payments for new aircraft under operating leases and rental savings resulting from the cessation of wet leases of Boeing 747 cargo freighters. Air catering expenses increased by 45.1% to RMB312 million, primarily as a result of an increase in number of passengers carried during the period under review. Labour costs for flight personnel increased by 28.5% to RMB491 million, largely due to an increase in flying hours. 3 Maintenance expenses increased by 15.7% to RMB1,410 million, due mainly to increases in aircraft overhaul charges and routine maintenance costs resulting from the increase in flying hours during the period under review. Aircraft and traffic servicing expenses increased by 41.0% to RMB1,689 million from the same period last year, reflecting primarily an increase in number of landing and takeoffs during the period under review. Promotion and sales expenses increased by 29.7% to RMB874 million from the same period last year, primarily as a result of an increase in traffic revenue. General and administrative expenses increased by 14.8% to RMB552 million from the same period last year, due mainly to an increase in the scale of operations during the period under review. Depreciation and amortisation expenses increased by 6.6% to RMB1,083 million from the same period last year, reflecting primarily the effect of aircraft delivered during the second half of 2003 and the period under review. Interest expense decreased by 24.6% to RMB344 million from the same period last year, primarily reflecting the combined effect of scheduled debt repayments and the replacement of certain RMB denominated bank loans of higher interest rates with US$ denominated bank loans of lower interest rates. Minority interests increased by 215.2% to RMB108 million from the same period last year, primarily reflecting the net profits earned by certain subsidiaries of the Group for the period under review. As a result of the aforementioned reasons, the Group earned a profit attributable to shareholders of RMB266 million for the six months ended 30 June, 2004, as compared to a loss attributable to shareholders of RMB1,232 million for the same period last year. LIQUIDITY, FINANCIAL RESOURCES AND CAPITAL STRUCTURE As of 30 June, 2004, the Group's borrowings totalled RMB22,139 million, an increase of RMB3,679 million from RMB18,460 million as of 31 December, 2003. The majority of such borrowings were denominated in United States dollars and, to a smaller extent, in Japanese yen and Hong Kong dollars, with a significant portion being fixed interest rate borrowings. As of 30 June, 2004, cash and cash equivalents of the Group totalled RMB2,932 million, an increase of RMB852 million from RMB2,080 million as of 31 December, 2003. Of such balance, 15.2% was denominated in foreign currencies. Net debts (total borrowings net of cash and cash equivalents) increased by 17.3% to RMB19,207 million from RMB16,380 million as of 31 December, 2003. As of 30 June, 2004, the shareholders' equity of the Group amounted to RMB12,162 million, an increase of RMB266 million from RMB11,896 million as of 31 December, 2003, reflecting the net profit earned for the period under review. Net debt/equity ratio of the Group as of 30 June, 2004 was 1.58 times, as compared to 1.38 times as of 31 December, 2003. 4 FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY In the normal course of business, the Group is exposed to fluctuations in foreign currencies and jet fuel prices. The Group's exposure to foreign currencies is mainly attributable to its debts denominated in foreign currencies. Depreciation or appreciation of the Renminbi against foreign currencies could affect the Group's results and financial position significantly, as the Group's foreign currency payments generally exceed its foreign currency receipts. The Group is not able to hedge its foreign currency exposure effectively other than by retaining its foreign currency denominated earnings and receipts to the extent permitted by the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or subject to certain restrictive conditions, by entering into forward foreign exchange contracts with authorised PRC banks. The Group is required to procure a majority of its jet fuel domestically at PRC spot market prices. There are currently no effective means available to the Group for managing its exposure associated with the fluctuations in domestic jet fuel prices. CHARGES ON ASSETS As of 30 June, 2004, certain aircraft of the Group with an aggregate carrying value of approximately RMB13,913 million (as of 31 December, 2003: RMB14,576 million) were mortgaged under certain loan and lease agreements. CAPITAL AND INVESTING COMMITMENTS As of 30 June, 2004, the Group had capital commitments of approximately RMB16,587 million. Of such amounts, RMB14,156 million was related to the acquisition of aircraft and related flight equipment and RMB1,640 million was related to the Group's facilities and equipment to be constructed and installed at the new Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. The remaining amount of RMB791 million was related to the Group's other airport and office facilities and equipment, overhaul and maintenance bases and training facilities. As of 30 June, 2004, the Group was committed to making a capital contribution of approximately RMB382 million to its jointly controlled entities. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES There have been no material adverse changes in the contingent liabilities of the Group since 31 December, 2003. RECENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Benefited from the strong growth of the China aviation market, the Group's business has been developing continuously and healthily. On 5 August, 2004, the opening of the new Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport which is one of our major operating bases, provides further opportunities for the expansion of the Company's operations. As one of the management's major goals, the Group will strive to maintain and promote the Group's market share in the expanding Guangzhou market. The Group believes that it can improve its ability to adapt to the civil aviation market and consolidate its leading position amongst the Chinese airlines by continually implementing innovations, improvements and upgradings to its various schemes designed to boost sales volume, such as route manager system and the dismissal of underperformed personnel policy. At the same time the Group also accelerates the process of integrating its route networks and transportation capacity, in order to achieve an operation of a traffic network hub. 5 As disclosed in an announcement of the Company dated 26 July, 2004, in order to enhance the Company's capital utilization rate of its capital and hence its investment return and profit, the Company entered into an asset management agreement with Zhong Zheng Wei Ye Investment Co., Ltd ("Zhong Zheng") [CHINESE CHARACTERS] and Centergate Securities Co., Ltd ("Centergate") [CHINESE CHARACTERS] on 22 July, 2004, pursuant to which the Company and Zhong Zheng jointly appointed Centergate to manage and invest capital investment of the Company and Zhong Zheng in the sum of RMB500 million and RMB75 million respectively. The appointment is effective from 27 July, 2004 to 26 July, 2005. If the annual rate of return from investment is 6% or below, Centergate will not charge any assets management fee. If the annual rate of return from investment exceeds 6%, Centergate will charge an assets management fee equivalent to a sum which is less than 60% of the excess of 6% annual return from investment of the Company's capital. The Board has approved the asset management agreement by way of a written approval in accordance with the articles of association of the Company and the laws of PRC. OUTLOOK FOR THE SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR The country's economy is entering a new cycle of rapid growth, with such growth being driven by factors including the acceleration of urbanization and upgrading in consumers' spending. Consumers' spending will provide a new boost for economic growth. With the patterns of the consumers' spending in automobile, housing, communication and travelling becoming the main themes of the upgraded spending pattern, the demand for air transportation will increase. The commencement of operation of the new Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and the opening of the Company's new terminal in Beijing Capital International Airport also provide ample opportunities for the Group's further development. In order to match the increase in its capacity for growth, the Group will adjust its network allocation, utilize the new airport's enlarged transportation capacity by increasing its transportation volume, with a view to maintaining and increasing its market share as well as revenues from business operations. The Company will continue to practise strict cost control to improve the overall benefits. USE OF PROCEEDS FROM H SHARE AND A SHARES OFFERING As stated in the 2003 Annual Report of the Company, as of 31 December, 2003, the Company has applied all the proceeds from H shares offering. The proceeds from A shares offering has been applied to purchase Boeing aircraft as disclosed in the A share prospectus of the Company. The uses of proceeds were unchanged. DIVIDENDS The Board of Directors does not propose to declare an interim dividend for the year 2004. 6 STRUCTURE OF SHARE CAPITAL As of 30 June, 2004, the share capital of the Company comprised 4,374,178,000 shares, of which approximately 50.3% or 2,200,000,000 State-owned Shares were held by China Southern Air Holding Company ("CSAHC"), approximately 22.86% or 1,000,000,000 A Shares were held by the PRC investors and approximately 26.84% or 1,174,178,000 H Shares were held by Hong Kong and overseas investors. NUMBER OF PERCENTAGE TO THE CATEGORY OF SHARES SHARES HELD TOTAL SHARE CAPITAL ------------------ ------------- -------------------- (%) State-owned Shares (held by CSAHC) 2,200,000,000 50.30% H Shares 1,174,178,000 26.84% A Shares 1,000,000,000 22.86% ------------- ------- Total share capital 4,374,178,000 100.00% ============= ======= SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS As of 30 June, 2004, to the knowledge of the directors, chief executive and supervisors of the Company, the interests and short positions of the following persons other than the directors, chief executive or supervisors in the shares and underlying shares of the Company as recorded in the register of the Company required to be kept under section 336 of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (the "SFO") or otherwise persons who have an interest of 10% or more in the Company's shares are as follows: % OF % OF % OF THE TOTAL THE TOTAL THE TOTAL ISSUED ISSUED ISSUED DOMESTIC SHARE H SHARES SHARES CAPITAL NAME OF TYPE OF TYPE OF NUMBER OF OF THE OF THE OF THE SHORT SHAREHOLDER SHAREHOLDING SHARE SHARES HELD COMPANY COMPANY COMPANY POSITION ----------- -------------- -------- ------------- --------- --------- -------- -------- CSAHC Direct holding Domestic share 2,200,000,000 -- 100% 50.3% -- HKSCC Nominees Limited Direct holding H share 1,152,155,998 98.1% -- 26.34% -- ------------- Notes: Based on the information available to the directors, chief executive and supervisors of the Company (including such information as was available on the website of the Stock Exchange) and so far as the directors, chief executive and supervisors are aware, as at 30 June, 2004: 1. Among the 1,152,155,998 H Shares held by HKSCC Nominees Limited, Li Ka-Shing Unity Trustcorp Limited had an interest in an aggregate of 193,877,000 H Shares of the Company (representing approximately 16.51% of its then total issued H Shares) in the capacity as beneficiary of a trust. 7 2. Among the 1,152,155,998 H Shares held by HKSCC Nominees Limited, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. had an interest in an aggregate of 119,852,800 H Shares of the Company (representing approximately 10.21% of its then total issued H Shares). Out of the 119,852,800 H Shares, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. had an interest in a lending pool comprising 18,690,000 H Shares of the Company (representing approximately 1.59% of its then total issued H Shares). According to the information as disclosed in the website of the Stock Exchange and so far as the directors, chief executive and supervisors are aware, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. held its interest in the Company in the following manners: (a) 18,690,000 H Shares in a lending pool, representing approximately 1.59% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, which was 100% held by J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.; (b) 102,800 H Shares, representing approximately 0.01% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held in the capacity as beneficial owner by J.P. Morgan Whitefriars Inc., which was ultimately 100% held by J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.; (c) 100,060,000 H Shares, representing approximately 8.52% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held in the capacity as investment manager by JF Asset Management Limited, which was approximately 99.99% held by J.P. Morgan Fleming Asset Management (Asia) Inc., which was ultimately 100% held by J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.; and (d) 1,000,000 H Shares, representing approximately 0.09% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held in the capacity as beneficial owner by J.P. Morgan Securities Ltd., which was approximately 90% held by J.P. Morgan Holdings (UK) Limited, which was ultimately 100% held by J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.. 3. Among the 1,152,155,998 H Shares held by HKSCC Nominees Limited, Morgan Stanley International Incorporated had an interest in an aggregate of 111,121,932 H Shares of the Company (representing approximately 9.46% of its then total issued H Shares). According to the information as disclosed on the website of the Stock Exchange and so far as the directors, chief executive and supervisors are aware, Morgan Stanley International Incorporated which was (or its directors were) accustomed to act in accordance with the directors of Morgan Stanley, held its indirect interest in the Company as at 30 June, 2004 in the manner as follows: (a) 743,332 H Shares, representing approximately 0.06% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Hong Kong Securities Limited, which was ultimately 100% held by Morgan Stanley Asia Pacific (Holdings) Limited, which, in turn, was 90% held by Morgan Stanley International Incorporated; (b) 108,670,000 H Shares, representing approximately 9.25% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by Morgan Stanley Investment Management Company, which was ultimately 100% held by Morgan Stanley Asia Pacific (Holdings) Limited, which, in turn, was 90% held by Morgan Stanley International Incorporated; (c) 292,600 H Shares, representing approximately 0.02% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by Morgan Stanley Asset & Investment Trust Management Co. Limited, which was 100% held by Morgan Stanley International Incorporated; (d) 714,000 H Shares, representing approximately 0.06% of the Company's then total issue H Shares, were held by Morgan Stanley & Co International Limited, which was ultimately 100% held by Morgan Stanley Group (Europe), which, in turn, was approximately 98.30% held by Morgan Stanley International Limited, in which Morgan Stanley International Incorporated held 100% control; and (e) 702,000 H Shares, representing approximately 0.06% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by Morgan Stanley Capital (Luxembourg) S.A., which was approximately 93.75% held by Morgan Stanley International Incorporated. According to the information as disclosed on the website of the Stock Exchange and so far as the directors, chief executive and supervisors are aware, as at 30 June 2004, Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Hong Kong Securities Limited also had a short position in 616,000 H Shares of the Company (representing approximately 0.05% of its then total issued H Shares). 4. Among the 1,152,155,998 H Shares held by HKSCC Nominees Limited, 96,938,500 H Shares, representing approximately 8.26% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by Space Dragon Limited as beneficial owner, which was 100% held by Cheung Kong Investment Company Limited. 5. Among the 1,152,155,998 H Shares held by HKSCC Nominees Limited, 96,938,500 H Shares, representing approximately 8.26% of the Company's then total issued H Shares, were held by Choicewell Limited as beneficial owner, which was ultimately 100% held by Hutchison Whampoa Limited. Save as disclosed above, as at 30 June, 2004, to the knowledge of the directors, chief executive and supervisors of the Company, no other person (other than the directors, chief executives or supervisors) had an interest or short positions in the shares or underlying shares of the Company as recorded in the register of the Company required to be kept under section 336 of the SFO or otherwise had an interest of 10% or more in the Company's shares. 8 PURCHASE, SALE OR REDEMPTION OF SHARES Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries purchased, sold or redeemed any shares of the Company during the first half of 2004. COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS In accordance with a comprehensive services agreement entered into between the Company and CSAHC on 22 May, 1997 (the "Service Agreement"), CSAHC will receive fees for providing or causing to be provided to the Group and its employees certain housing services for a term from 22 May, 1997 to 31 December, 2006. The Service Agreement provides that the CSAHC will sell or rent housing to eligible employees at a price below market price. As the housing is sold or rented below cost, and the construction costs of the leased housing were originally paid by CSAHC, the Company shall pay an annual sum of RMB85 million to CSAHC by quarterly installments in arrears for ten years from 1995 to 2004. INTERESTS OF THE DIRECTORS AND SUPERVISORS IN THE EQUITY OF THE COMPANY As of 30 June, 2004, the interests and short positions of the directors, chief executive and supervisors in the shares, underlying shares and/or debentures (as the case may be) of the Company or its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) which were notified to the Company and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Stock Exchange") pursuant to SFO (including interest or short positions which are taken or deemed to have under such provisions of the SFO), or recorded in the register maintained by the Company pursuant to Section 352 of the SFO or which were notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to the "Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of the Listed Companies" in Schedule 10 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Listing Rules") are as follows: % TO % TO THE TOTAL THE TOTAL % TO ISSUED ISSUED THE TOTAL THE SHARE DOMESTIC ISSUED COMPANY/ NUMBER CAPITAL SHARES H SHARES ASSOCIATED TYPES OF TYPE OF OF SHARES OF THE OF THE OF THE SHORT NAME CORPORATION INTEREST SHARE HELD COMPANY COMPANY COMPANY POSITION -------- ----------- ----------- -------- ---------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Simon To the Company Interest of H Shares 100,000 0.002% -- 0.009% -- spouse (note 1) ------------ Note 1: The spouse of Mr. Simon To is the owner of these 100,000 H Shares of the Company and accordingly, Mr. Simon To, is taken to be interested in these 100,000 H Shares by virtue of the SFO. Save as disclosed above, as of 30 June, 2004, none of the directors, chief executive or supervisors of the Company has interest or short position in the shares, underlying shares and/or debentures (as the case may be) of the Company or its associated corporations (within the meaning of the Part XV of the SFO) which were notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to SFO (including interest or short positions which they are taken or deemed to have under such provisions of the SFO), or recorded in the register maintained by the Company pursuant to Section 352 of the SFO or which were notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to the "Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of the Listed Companies" in Schedule 10 of the Listing Rules. 9 DESIGNATED DEPOSITS AND OVERDUE TIME DEPOSITS As of 30 June, 2004, the Group's deposits placed with financial institutions or other parties did not include any designated deposits or overdue time deposits against which the Group failed to receive repayments. COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE OF BEST PRACTICE The Board is not aware of any matter that does not comply with the Code of Best Practice as set out in Appendix 14 of the Listing Rules. MATERIAL LITIGATION The Group was not involved in any material litigation or dispute in the six months ended 30 June, 2004. By order of the Board of Directors YAN ZHI QING Chairman of the Board of Directors Guangzhou, the PRC 26 August, 2004 10 DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AND ADDRESS FOR INSPECTION DOCUMENT available for inspection: Original copy of the Company's 2004 interim report signed by the Chairman of the Board. ADDRESS FOR INSPECTION: The Company Secretary Office of the China Southern Airlines Company Limited, No. 278, Ji Chang Lu, Guangzhou, the People's Republic of China. WEBSITE: www.cs-air.com OPERATING DATA SUMMARY FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, 2004 VS 2003 ----------------------- -------------------------- INCREASE/ 2004 2003 (DECREASE) (%) ------- ------ ---------- ---- CAPACITY Available seat kilometres (ASKs) (million) -- Domestic 20,141 13,588 6,553 48.2 -- Hong Kong regional 926 581 345 59.4 -- International 4,861 3,369 1,492 44.3 ------- ------- ------- Total 25,928 17,538 8,390 47.8 ======= ======= ======= Available tonne kilometres (ATKs) (million) -- Domestic 2,333 1,567 766 48.9 -- Hong Kong regional 103 65 38 58.5 -- International 1,139 926 213 23.0 ------- ------- ------- Total 3,575 2,558 1,017 39.8 ======= ======= ======= Kilometres flown (thousand) 156,041 106,641 49,400 46.3 ======= ======= ======= Hours flown (thousand) 242 165 77 46.7 ======= ======= ======= Number of flight sectors -- Domestic 117,919 80,538 37,381 46.4 -- Hong Kong regional 7,549 4,888 2,661 54.4 -- International 7,548 5,330 2,218 41.6 ------- ------- ------- Total 133,016 90,756 42,260 46.6 ======= ======= ======= TRAFFIC Revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs) (million) -- Domestic 13,644 7,919 5,725 72.3 -- Hong Kong regional 573 293 280 95.6 -- International 3,025 1,886 1,139 60.4 ------- ------- ------- Total 17,242 10,098 7,144 70.7 ======= ======= ======= Revenue tonne kilometres (RTKs) (million) -- Domestic 1,518 927 591 63.8 -- Hong Kong regional 57 31 26 83.9 -- International 611 466 145 31.1 ------- ------- ------- Total 2,186 1,424 762 53.5 ======= ======= ======= 11 OPERATING DATA SUMMARY (Continued) FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, 2004 VS 2003 ----------------------- -------------------------- INCREASE/ 2004 2003 (DECREASE) (%) ------ ------ ---------- ---- Passenger tonne kilometres (million) -- Domestic 1,219 707 512 72.4 -- Hong Kong regional 51 27 24 88.9 -- International 270 168 102 60.7 ------ ------ ------ Total 1,540 902 638 70.7 ====== ====== ====== Cargo and mail tonne kilometres (million) -- Domestic 299 220 79 35.9 -- Hong Kong regional 6 4 2 50.0 -- International 341 298 43 14.4 ------ ------ ------ Total 646 522 124 23.8 ====== ====== ====== Passengers carried (thousand) -- Domestic 11,825 6,839 4,986 72.9 -- Hong Kong regional 671 383 288 75.2 -- International 819 516 303 58.7 ------ ------ ------ Total 13,315 7,738 5,577 72.1 ====== ====== ====== Cargo and mail carried (thousand tonne) -- Domestic 218 163 55 33.7 -- Hong Kong regional 7 6 1 16.7 -- International 42 32 10 31.3 ------ ------ ------ Total 267 201 66 32.8 ====== ====== ====== LOAD FACTORS Passenger load factor (RPK/ASK) (%) -- Domestic 67.7 58.3 9.4 16.1 -- Hong Kong regional 61.9 50.4 11.5 22.8 -- International 62.2 56.0 6.2 11.1 Total 66.5 57.6 8.9 15.5 ====== ====== ====== Average load factor (RTK/ATK) (%) -- Domestic 65.1 59.2 5.9 10.0 -- Hong Kong regional 55.3 47.7 7.6 15.9 -- International 53.6 50.3 3.3 6.6 Total 61.1 55.7 5.4 9.7 ====== ====== ====== Breakeven load factor (%) 58.3 70.4 (12.1) (17.2) ====== ====== ====== 12 OPERATING DATA SUMMARY (Continued) FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, 2004 VS 2003 ----------------------- -------------------------- INCREASE/ 2004 2003 (DECREASE) (%) ------ ------ ---------- ---- YIELD Yield per RPK (RMB) -- Domestic 0.58 0.57 0.01 1.8 -- Hong Kong regional 0.93 1.00 (0.07) (7.0) -- International 0.45 0.43 0.02 4.7 Total 0.57 0.56 0.01 1.8 ====== ====== ====== Yield per cargo and mail tonne kilometre (RMB) 1.64 1.77 (0.13) (7.3) ====== ====== ====== Yield per RTK (RMB) -- Domestic 5.49 5.28 0.21 4.0 -- Hong Kong regional 9.98 10.39 (0.41) (3.9) -- International 3.15 2.83 0.32 11.3 Total 4.96 4.59 0.37 8.1 ====== ====== ====== FLEET Number of aircraft in service at period end -- Boeing 113 103 10 9.7 -- Airbus 24 22 2 9.1 -- Others 2 -- 2 N/A ------ ------ ------ Total 139 125 14 11.2 ====== ====== ====== Aircraft utilisation rate (hours per day) -- Boeing 9.60 7.39 2.21 29.9 -- Airbus 9.27 7.02 2.25 32.1 Total 9.40 7.33 2.07 28.2 ====== ====== ====== FINANCIAL Operating cost per ASK (RMB) 0.40 0.46 (0.06) (13.0) ====== ====== ====== Operating cost per ATK (RMB) 2.89 3.17 (0.28) (8.8) ====== ====== ====== 13 The Board of Directors of the Company is pleased to announce the unaudited consolidated interim results of the Group for the six months ended 30 June, 2004, together with the comparative figures for the corresponding period of 2003 as follows: A. PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS ("IFRS") CONSOLIDATED PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT (UNAUDITED) 2004 VS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, 2003 -------------------------------------------------- INCREASE/ 2004 2003 2004 2004 (DECREASE) NOTE RMB'000 RMB'000 HK$'000 US$'000 (%) ---- ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- --------- Operating revenue Traffic revenue: Passenger 9,776,002 5,615,796 9,214,819 1,181,162 74.1 Cargo and mail 1,058,276 921,883 997,527 127,864 14.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- 10,834,278 6,537,679 10,212,346 1,309,026 65.7 Other revenue 259,659 195,193 244,754 31,372 33.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Total operating revenue 2 11,093,937 6,732,872 10,457,100 1,340,398 64.8 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Operating expenses: Flight operations 4,722,442 3,516,885 4,451,355 570,578 34.3 Maintenance 1,409,841 1,218,488 1,328,910 170,341 15.7 Aircraft and traffic servicing 1,688,612 1,197,273 1,591,679 204,022 41.0 Promotion and sales 874,393 673,965 824,199 105,646 29.7 General and administrative 551,719 480,598 520,048 66,660 14.8 Depreciation and amortisation 1,083,346 1,016,530 1,021,158 130,893 6.6 Other 8,244 3,465 7,771 996 137.9 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Total operating expenses 10,338,597 8,107,204 9,745,120 1,249,136 27.5 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Operating profit/(loss) 755,340 (1,374,332) 711,980 91,262 155.0 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Non-operating income/(expenses): Share of associated companies' results 21,156 2,825 19,942 2,556 648.9 Share of jointly controlled entities' results 4,351 (21,654) 4,101 526 120.1 Profit/(loss) on sale of fixed assets 2,999 (22,679) 2,827 362 113.2 Interest income 8,994 5,842 8,478 1,087 54.0 Interest expense 3 (343,620) (455,456) (323,895) (41,517) (24.6) Exchange gain/(loss), net 15,397 (4,774) 14,513 1,860 422.5 Other, net 4,531 (287) 4,271 548 1,678.7 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Total net non-operating expenses (286,192) (496,183) (269,763) (34,578) (42.3) ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Profit/(loss) before taxation and minority interests 3 469,148 (1,870,515) 442,217 56,684 125.1 Taxation (expense)/credit 4 (94,790) 544,992 (89,349) (11,453) (117.4) ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Profit/(loss) before minority interests 374,358 (1,325,523) 352,868 45,231 128.2 Minority interests (108,174) 93,910 (101,964) (13,070) 215.2 ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders 266,184 (1,231,613) 250,904 32,161 121.6 ========== ========== ========== ========= Basic earnings/(loss) per share 5 RMB0.06 RMB(0.37) HK$0.06 US$0.007 116.7 ========== ========== ========== ========= The notes on pages 18 to 24 form part of this interim financial report. 14 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED) As at 30 June, 2004 (Expressed in Renminbi) AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 NOTE RMB'000 RMB'000 ---- ----------- ------------- NON-CURRENT ASSETS Fixed assets 29,128,791 28,535,907 Construction in progress 2,189,052 1,629,689 Lease prepayments 344,755 348,652 Interest in associated companies 443,780 422,201 Interest in jointly controlled entities 787,874 731,323 Other investments 199,007 204,971 Lease and equipment deposits 4,717,553 2,932,591 Deferred expenditure 233,726 248,853 Long-term receivables 6,648 6,380 ---------- ---------- 38,051,186 35,060,567 ---------- ---------- CURRENT ASSETS Inventories 572,457 543,777 Trade receivables 7 1,210,680 833,604 Other receivables 310,365 296,047 Prepaid expenses and other assets 323,947 247,926 Cash and cash equivalents 2,931,786 2,080,174 ---------- ---------- 5,349,235 4,001,528 ---------- ---------- CURRENT LIABILITIES Bank and other loans 9,931,236 7,096,846 Obligations under finance leases 1,138,495 1,297,855 Amounts due to related companies 906,353 929,003 Other liabilities 1,176,852 1,019,811 Accounts payable 8 841,409 928,093 Bills payable -- 438,135 Sales in advance of carriage 386,255 466,087 Accrued expenses 3,217,955 2,527,794 Taxes payable 72,954 89,954 ---------- ---------- 17,671,509 14,793,578 ---------- ---------- NET CURRENT LIABILITIES (12,322,274) (10,792,050) ---------- ---------- TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 25,728,912 24,268,517 ---------- ---------- LONG-TERM LIABILITIES AND DEFERRED ITEMS Bank and other loans 6,062,819 4,521,735 Obligations under finance leases 5,006,135 5,543,084 Provision for major overhauls 230,525 189,464 Deferred credits 44,983 46,554 Deferred taxation 456,354 398,305 ---------- ---------- 11,800,816 10,699,142 ---------- ---------- 13,928,096 13,569,375 ========== ========== The notes on pages 18 to 24 form part of this interim financial report. 15 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED) (Continued) As at 30 June, 2004 (Expressed in Renminbi) AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 NOTE RMB'000 RMB'000 ---- ---------- ------------- REPRESENTING: SHARE CAPITAL 4,374,178 4,374,178 RESERVES 9 7,787,713 7,521,529 ---------- ---------- SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 12,161,891 11,895,707 MINORITY INTERESTS 1,766,205 1,673,668 ---------- ---------- 13,928,096 13,569,375 ========== ========== Approved and authorised for issue by the board of directors on 26 August, 2004. YAN ZHI QING WANG CHANG SHUN XU JIE BO Director Director Director The notes on pages 18 to 24 form part of this interim financial report. 16 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED) For the six months ended 30 June, 2004 (Expressed in Renminbi) SHARE SHARE OTHER RETAINED CAPITAL PREMIUM RESERVES EARNINGS TOTAL RMB'000 RMB'000 RMB'000 RMB'000 RMB'000 --------- --------- -------- ---------- ----------- At 1 January, 2003 3,374,178 3,683,956 585,372 1,969,701 9,613,207 Loss for the period -- -- -- (1,231,613) (1,231,613) --------- --------- ------- ---------- --------- At 30 June, 2003 3,374,178 3,683,956 585,372 738,088 8,381,594 ========= ========= ======= ========== ========== At 1 January, 2004 4,374,178 5,324,723 610,341 1,586,465 11,895,707 Profit for the period -- -- -- 266,184 266,184 --------- --------- ------- ---------- --------- AT 30 JUNE, 2004 4,374,178 5,324,723 610,341 1,852,649 12,161,891 ========= ========= ======= ========== ========== The notes on pages 18 to 24 form part of this interim financial report. 17 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT (UNAUDITED) For the six months ended 30 June, 2004 (Expressed in Renminbi) FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, --------------------------- 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ---------- ---------- Net cash inflows from operating activities 1,217,840 1,199,731 Net cash used in investing activities (4,050,525) (1,886,023) ---------- ---------- Net cash outflows before financing activities (2,832,685) (686,292) Net cash inflows/(outflows) from financing activities 3,684,297 (803,404) ---------- ---------- Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 851,612 (1,489,696) Cash and cash equivalents as at 1 January, 2,080,174 3,771,043 ---------- ---------- Cash and cash equivalents as at 30 June, 2,931,786 2,281,347 ========== ========== The notes on pages 18 to 24 form part of this interim financial report. 18 NOTES: 1 BASIS OF PREPARATION This interim financial report of China Southern Airlines Company Limited (the "Company") and its subsidiaries (the "Group") is unaudited, but has been reviewed by KPMG in accordance with Statement of Auditing Standards 700 "Engagements to review interim financial reports", issued by the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. KPMG's independent review report to the Board of Directors is included on page 25. The interim financial report has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Main Board Listing Rules of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, including compliance with International Accounting Standard 34 "Interim Financial Reporting" adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board. The financial information relating to the financial year ended 31 December, 2003 included in the interim financial report does not constitute the Group's annual financial statements prepared under International Financial Reporting Standards for that financial year but is derived from those financial statements. The Group's annual financial statements for the year ended 31 December, 2003 are available at the Company's registered office. The auditors have expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements in their report dated 23 April, 2004. The accounting policies have been consistently applied by the Group and are consistent with those adopted in the 2003 annual financial statements. The notes on the unaudited interim financial report include an explanation of events and transactions that are significant to an understanding of the changes in financial position and performance of the Group since the 2003 annual financial statements. 2 TURNOVER The Group is principally engaged in the provision of domestic, Hong Kong regional and international passenger, cargo and mail airline services, with flights operating primarily from the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in the People's Republic of China ("PRC"), which is both the main hub of the Group's route network and the location of its corporate headquarters. Turnover comprises revenues from airline and airline-related businesses and is stated net of sales tax. The turnover for the six months ended 30 June, 2003, was stated net of sales tax and contributions to the CAAC Infrastructure Development Fund. Sales tax is payable at 3% (2003: 3%) of the Group's traffic revenue in respect of domestic flights and international/Hong Kong regional outbound flights. During the six months ended 30 June, 2003, the Group's passenger revenue for May and June 2003 was exempted from sales tax. Prior to 1 April, 2004, contributions to the CAAC Infrastructure Development Fund were payable at 5% and 2%, respectively of the Group's domestic and international/Hong Kong regional traffic revenue, except for the period from 1 May, 2003 to 31 March, 2004 during which the Group was exempted from contributions to the CAAC Infrastructure Development Fund. Effective from 1 April, 2004, contributions to the CAAC Infrastructure Development Fund are payable based on the Group's traffic capacity deployed on its routes. The contributions now form part of the flight operations expenses. 19 2 TURNOVER (Continued) The Group's turnover and operating profit/(loss) by geographic region are analysed as follows: FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, ------------------------------------------------------------- HONG KONG DOMESTIC REGIONAL INTERNATIONAL TOTAL RMB'000 RMB'000 RMB'000 RMB'000 ---------- ---------- ------------- ---------- 2004 Traffic revenue 8,341,352 568,609 1,924,317 10,834,278 Other revenue 259,659 -- -- 259,659 ---------- ------- --------- ---------- Turnover 8,601,011 568,609 1,924,317 11,093,937 ========== ======= ========= ========== Operating profit 604,728 38,852 111,760 755,340 ========== ======= ========= ========== 2003 Traffic revenue 4,896,421 321,912 1,319,346 6,537,679 Other revenue 195,193 -- -- 195,193 ---------- ------- --------- ---------- Turnover 5,091,614 321,912 1,319,346 6,732,872 ========== ======= ========= ========== Operating (loss) (1,198,810) (80,384) (95,138) (1,374,332) ========== ======= ========= ========== 3 PROFIT/(LOSS) BEFORE TAXATION AND MINORITY INTERESTS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, -------------------------- 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 --------- ------- Profit/(loss) before taxation and minority interests is arrived at after charging: Depreciation -- owned assets 815,604 768,595 -- assets held under finance leases 254,742 247,935 Staff costs 1,061,144 847,623 Operating lease charges in respect of aircraft 827,665 820,491 Amortisation of deferred expenditure 13,000 13,348 Interest on bank and other loans 174,232 273,841 Finance charges on obligations under finance leases 186,147 231,371 Less: borrowing costs capitalised (16,759) (49,756) Net interest expense 343,620 455,456 ========= ======= 20 4 TAXATION EXPENSE/(CREDIT) FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, ------------------------- 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ------- -------- PRC income tax 27,953 2,859 Share of taxation of associated companies 3,738 3,791 Share of taxation of jointly controlled entities 5,050 -- ------- --------- 36,741 6,650 Deferred taxation 58,049 (551,642) ------- --------- 94,790 (544,992) ======= ========= On 17 October, 2003, the Company's registered address was moved to Guangzhou Economic & Technology Development Zone. In accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Implementation of Income Tax for Foreign Investment Enterprises and Foreign Enterprises of the PRC and a taxation approval document from Guangzhou Municipal State Tax Bureau, the Company is entitled to enjoy the preferential tax policy implemented in the Guangzhou Economic & Technology Development Zone effective 1 October, 2003. As a result, the Company's income tax rate has been changed to 15% from 33% beginning from that date. In respect of the Group's overseas airline activities, the Group has either obtained exemptions from overseas taxation pursuant to the bilateral aviation agreements between the overseas and PRC governments, or has sustained tax losses in these overseas jurisdictions. Accordingly, no provision for overseas tax has been made for the periods presented. 5 BASIC EARNINGS/(LOSS) PER SHARE The calculation of basic earnings/(loss) per share is based on the consolidated profit attributable to shareholders of RMB266,184,000 (2003: loss of RMB1,231,613,000) and the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period of 4,374,178,000 (2003: 3,374,178,000). There were no dilutive potential shares in existence during the six months ended 30 June, 2003 and 2004. 6 DIVIDENDS The Board of Directors of the Company does not recommend the payment of an interim dividend for the six months ended 30 June, 2004 (2003: Nil). 21 7 TRADE RECEIVABLES Credit terms granted by the Group to sales agents and other customers generally range from one to three months. An ageing analysis of trade receivables, net of impairment losses, is set out below: AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 --------- ------------- Within 1 month 919,687 589,080 More than 1 month but less than 3 months 288,093 235,828 More than 3 months but less than 12 months 2,900 8,696 --------- ------- 1,210,680 833,604 ========= ======= 8 ACCOUNTS PAYABLE An ageing analysis of accounts payable is as follows: AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ------- ------------ Due within 1 month or on demand 275,060 279,165 Due after 1 month but within 3 months 242,721 278,113 Due after 3 months but within 6 months 323,628 370,815 ------- ------- 841,409 928,093 ======= ======= 9 RESERVES No transfer to statutory surplus reserve, statutory public welfare fund and discretionary surplus reserve has been made during the period and the corresponding period of 2003. According to the Articles of Association of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries and the PRC Company Law, any such transfer shall be proposed by the respective board of directors and approved by shareholders in the annual general meeting. 22 10 COMMITMENTS (A) CAPITAL COMMITMENTS As at 30 June, 2004, the Group had capital commitments as follows: AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ----------- ------------ Commitments in respect of aircraft and related equipment -- authorised and contracted for 14,155,601 10,615,079 ---------- ---------- Commitments in respect of investments in the Guangzhou new airport -- authorised and contracted for 387,185 617,277 -- authorised but not contracted for 1,252,906 1,454,661 ---------- ---------- 1,640,091 2,071,938 ---------- ---------- Other commitments -- authorised and contracted for 134,201 232,570 -- authorised but not contracted for 656,971 708,099 ---------- ---------- 791,172 940,669 ---------- ---------- 16,586,864 13,627,686 ========== ========== The Group has taken steps towards the purchase of the airline business of China Northern Airlines Company and Xinjiang Airlines Company. No contractual obligations existed as at 30 June, 2004 and up to the date of approval of this interim financial report. The purchase price has not yet been determined. (B) INVESTING COMMITMENTS As at 30 June, 2004, the Company was committed to make a capital contribution of approximately RMB382 million (as at 31 December, 2003: approximately RMB446 million) to its jointly controlled entities. 23 11 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Group obtained various operating and financial services provided by China Southern Air Holding Company ("CSAHC"), the ultimate holding company and its affiliates, and the Group's associated companies and jointly controlled entities during the normal course of its business. The following is a summary of significant transactions carried out in the normal course of business between the Group, CSAHC and its affiliates, and the Group's associated companies and jointly controlled entities during the period: FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, ------------------------ 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ------- ------- EXPENSES Paid to CSAHC and its affiliates Handling charges 18,552 14,277 Wet lease rentals -- 27,800 Sundry aviation supplies 25,596 25,982 Air catering expenses 18,865 11,986 Housing benefits 42,500 42,500 Lease charges for land and buildings 7,612 7,612 Paid to associated companies and jointly controlled entities Repairing charges 431,340 277,579 Flight simulation service charges 46,426 50,151 INCOME Received from associated companies and jointly controlled entities Rental income 15,288 15,288 Interest income 1,025 1,178 In addition to the above, certain business undertakings of CSAHC also provided hotel and other services to the Group during the period. The total amount involved is not material to the results of the Group for the period. As at 30 June, 2004, the Group had cash and cash equivalents placed with Southern Airlines Group Finance Company Limited, a PRC authorised financial institution controlled by CSAHC and an associated company of the Group amounting to RMB677,835,000 (as at 31 December, 2003: RMB365,906,000). The applicable interest rates are determined in accordance with the rates published by the People's Bank of China. 24 11 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Continued) As at 31 December, 2003, the Group had advances from CSAHC amounting to RMB165,995,000, which was interest free and repayable on demand. The advances were repaid by the Group during the period. The Directors of the Company are of the opinion that the above transactions were conducted in the normal course of business and on normal commercial terms or in accordance with the agreements governing such transactions. 12 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES There have been no material adverse changes in contingent liabilities of the Group subsequent to 31 December, 2003, details of which are disclosed in its 2003 annual financial statements. 13 CONVENIENCE TRANSLATION The unaudited consolidated profit and loss account has been prepared in Renminbi ("RMB"), the national currency of the PRC. Translations of amounts from RMB into Hong Kong dollars ("HK$") and United States dollars ("US$") solely for the convenience of readers have been made at the rates of HK$1.00 to RMB1.0609 and US$1.00 to RMB8.2766, being the average of the buying and selling rates as quoted by the People's Bank of China at the close of business on 30 June, 2004. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been or could be converted into HK$ or US$ at these rates or at any other certain rates on 30 June, 2004 or on any other date. 25 INDEPENDENT REVIEW REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES COMPANY LIMITED INTRODUCTION We have been instructed by the Company to review the interim financial report as set out on pages 13 to 24. RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS AND AUDITORS The Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited require the preparation of an interim financial report to be in compliance with the relevant provisions thereof and International Accounting Standard 34 "Interim Financial Reporting" adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board. The interim financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. It is our responsibility to form an independent conclusion, based on our review, on the interim financial report and to report our conclusion solely to you, as a body, in accordance with our agreed terms of engagement, and for no other purpose. We do not assume responsibility towards or accept liability to any other person for the contents of this report. REVIEW WORK PERFORMED We conducted our review in accordance with Statement of Auditing Standards 700 "Engagements to review interim financial reports" issued by the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. A review consists principally of making enquiries of group management and applying analytical procedures to the interim financial report and based thereon, assessing whether the accounting policies and presentation have been consistently applied unless otherwise disclosed. A review excludes audit procedures such as tests of controls and verification of assets, liabilities and transactions. It is substantially less in scope than an audit and therefore provides a lower level of assurance than an audit. Accordingly we do not express an audit opinion on the interim financial report. REVIEW CONCLUSION On the basis of our review which does not constitute an audit, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the interim financial report for the six months ended 30 June, 2004. KPMG Certified Public Accountants Hong Kong, 26 August, 2004 26 B. PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRC ACCOUNTING RULES AND REGULATIONS ("PRC GAAP") CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED) As at 30 June, 2004 AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ---------- ------------ ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 3,094,663 2,321,483 Trade receivables 1,298,305 891,827 Other receivables 339,945 316,665 Advance payments 152,950 84,832 Inventories 672,274 631,669 Prepaid expenses 233,190 203,370 ---------- ---------- TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 5,791,327 4,449,846 ---------- ---------- Long-term equity investments 642,791 622,372 ---------- ---------- Fixed assets: Cost 42,552,129 40,898,104 Less: accumulated depreciation 12,586,660 11,502,684 ---------- ---------- Net book value of fixed assets 29,965,469 29,395,420 Construction materials 2,230 1,730 Construction in progress 2,551,738 1,937,390 ---------- ---------- TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 32,519,437 31,334,540 ---------- ---------- Other assets: Lease and equipment deposits 4,822,208 2,932,591 Deferred expenditure 23,560 26,473 Long-term receivables 8,356 6,382 ---------- ---------- TOTAL OTHER ASSETS 4,854,124 2,965,446 ---------- ---------- TOTAL ASSETS 43,807,679 39,372,204 ========== ========== 27 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED) (Continued) As at 30 June, 2004 AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ---------- ------------ LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' FUNDS Current liabilities: Short-term loans 9,257,983 6,429,306 Bills payable -- 447,778 Trade accounts payable 1,721,631 1,667,383 Sales in advance of carriage 386,255 466,087 Wages payable 75,551 74,956 Staff welfare payable 129,586 131,284 Taxes payable 170,539 102,134 CAAC infrastructure development fund payable 187,320 353,592 Other creditors 8,916 5,756 Other payables 945,504 892,299 Accrued expenses 3,035,210 2,386,987 Long-term liabilities due within one year 1,832,247 1,985,895 ---------- ---------- TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 17,750,742 14,943,457 ---------- ---------- Long-term liabilities: Long-term borrowings 6,377,098 4,779,678 Obligations under finance leases 5,006,135 5,543,084 Provision for major overhauls 230,525 189,464 Deferred credits 200,234 217,162 ---------- ---------- TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 11,813,992 10,729,388 ---------- ---------- Deferred taxation Deferred tax liabilities 451,711 391,638 ---------- ---------- TOTAL LIABILITIES 30,016,445 26,064,483 ---------- ---------- MINORITY INTERESTS 1,908,306 1,757,872 ---------- ---------- SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Share capital 4,374,178 4,374,178 Capital reserves 5,801,345 5,801,345 Surplus reserves 610,341 610,341 Including: Statutory public welfare fund 172,687 172,687 Retained profits 1,097,064 763,985 ---------- ---------- TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 11,882,928 11,549,849 ---------- ---------- TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 43,807,679 39,372,204 ========== ========== 28 CONSOLIDATED INCOME AND PROFIT APPROPRIATION STATEMENT (UNAUDITED) For the six months ended 30 June, 2004 FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, --------------------------- 2004 2003 RMB'000 RMB'000 ---------- ----------- REVENUE FROM PRINCIPAL OPERATIONS 11,166,992 7,057,009 Less: Transfer to CAAC infrastructure development fund -- 250,788 ---------- ---------- NET REVENUE FROM PRINCIPAL OPERATIONS 11,166,992 6,806,221 Less: Costs of principal operations 8,775,648 6,817,521 Business taxes and surcharges 318,252 189,302 ---------- ---------- PROFIT/(LOSS) FROM PRINCIPAL OPERATIONS 2,073,092 (200,602) Add: Profit from other operations 94,503 41,177 Less: Selling expenses 869,667 645,175 Administrative expenses 477,827 500,164 Financial expenses 331,437 454,081 ---------- ---------- OPERATING PROFIT/(LOSS) 488,664 (1,758,845) Add: Investment income/(loss) 28,819 (11,802) Non-operating income 48,349 4,677 Less: Non-operating expenses 25,011 30,233 ---------- ---------- PROFIT/(LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAX 540,821 (1,796,203) Less: Income tax 88,026 (544,489) Minority interests 119,716 (86,957) ---------- ---------- NET PROFIT/(LOSS) FOR THE PERIOD 333,079 (1,164,757) ========== ========== 29 NOTES: 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The significant accounting policies adopted by the Group in the preparation of the financial statements conform to the Accounting Standards for Business Enterprises and "Accounting Regulations for Business Enterprises" and other relevant regulations issued by the Ministry of Finance ("MOF"). The significant accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below: (A) ACCOUNTING YEAR The accounting year of the Group is from 1 January to 31 December. (B) BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with "Accounting Regulations for Business Enterprises" and Cai Kuai Zi (1995) No.11 "Provisional regulations on consolidated financial statements" issued by the MOF. The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the China Southern Airlines Company Limited ("the Company") and all of its principal subsidiaries. Subsidiaries are those entities in which the Company has more than 50% equity interest or those entities controlled by the Company. The consolidated income statement of the Company only includes the results of the subsidiaries during the period when the Company has more than 50% equity interest, or when the Company does not have more than 50% equity interest, but has control over those entities. The effect of minority interests on equity and profit/loss attributable to minority interests are separately shown in the consolidated financial statements. For those subsidiaries whose assets and results of operations are not significant and have no significant effect on the Group's consolidated financial statements, the Company does not consolidate these subsidiaries. Where the accounting policies adopted by subsidiaries are different from the policies adopted by the Company, the financial statements of the subsidiaries have been adjusted in accordance with the accounting policies adopted by the Company on consolidation. All significant intercompany balances and transactions, and any unrealised gains arising from inter-company transactions, have been eliminated on consolidation. For those jointly controlled entities which the Company has joint control with other investors under contractual arrangements, the Company consolidates their assets, liabilities, revenues, costs and expenses based on the proportionate consolidation method according to the percentage of holding of equity interest in those entities in the consolidated financial statements. (C) BASIS OF PREPARATION The financial statements of the Group have been prepared on an accrual basis under the historical costs convention, unless otherwise stated. (D) REPORTING CURRENCY AND TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN CURRENCIES The financial statements are prepared in Renminbi. 30 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) (E) TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN CURRENCIES Foreign currency transactions during the period are translated into Renminbi at the exchange rates quoted by the People's Bank of China at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Renminbi at the exchange rates quoted by the People's Bank of China at the balance sheet date. Exchange gains and losses on foreign currency translation, except for the gains and losses relating to the transaction referred to below, are dealt with in the income statement. Exchange differences directly relating to the purchase or construction of fixed assets (including exchange differences on funds borrowed specifically for the purchase or construction of fixed assets) before they are ready for use are capitalised as part of the cost of fixed assets. (F) CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments which are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value. (G) ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS Trade accounts receivable showing signs of uncollectibility are identified individually and allowance is then made based on the probability of being uncollectible. In respect of trade accounts receivable showing no sign of uncollectibility, allowance is made with reference to the ageing analysis and management's estimation based on past experience. Allowances for other receivables are made based on the nature of the receivables and estimation of the corresponding collectibility risk. (H) INVENTORIES Inventories, which consist primarily of expendable spare parts and supplies, are carried at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Inventories are measured at their actual cost upon acquisition. The cost of inventories is calculated using the weighted average method. Any excess of the cost over the net realisable value of each class of inventories is recognised as a provision for diminution in value of inventories. Net realisable value is determined based on amount recoverable in the normal course of business after the balance sheet date or estimates made by the management based on the market conditions. Inventories are recorded using the perpetual stocking method. Inventories are amortised in full when issue for use. 31 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) (I) LONG-TERM EQUITY INVESTMENTS Long-term investments are stated at the lower of cost and the recoverable amount. A provision for impairment is determined on an individual basis on difference between the cost and the recoverable amount, if the latter is lower. A long-term equity investment in an investee enterprise that the Company has the power to control, jointly control or exercise significant influence over is accounted for under the equity method of accounting whereby the investment is initially recorded at cost and adjusted thereafter for any post acquisition change in the Company's share of the net assets of the enterprise. Equity investment difference, which is the difference between the initial investment cost and the Company's share of the equity of the investee enterprise, is accounted for as follows: -- Any excess of the initial investment cost over the Company's share of the equity is amortised on a straight-line basis. The amortisation period is determined according to the investment period as stipulated in the relevant agreement, or 10 years if the investment period is not specified in the agreement. -- Any shortfall of the initial investment cost over the Group's share of investors' equity is amortised on a straight-line basis over 10 years if the investment was acquired before the issuance of the "Questions and answers on implementing Accounting Regulations for Business Enterprises and related accounting standards (II)" (Cai Kuai (2003) No. 10) on 7 April, 2003. Otherwise, the shortfalls are recognised in "Capital surplus -- reserve for equity investment". A long-term equity investment in an investee enterprise that the Group does not control, jointly control or exercise significant influence over is accounted for under the cost method. Investment income is recognised when an investee enterprise declares a cash dividend or distributes profits. Upon disposal or transfer of long-term equity investments, the difference between the proceeds received and the carrying value of the investments is recognised in the income statement. (J) FIXED ASSETS AND CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS Fixed assets represent the assets held by the Group for rendering services and administrative purposes with useful lives over 1 year and comparatively high unit value. Fixed assets are stated in the balance sheet at cost or revalued amount less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Construction in progress are stated in the balance sheet at cost less impairment losses. Valuation is carried out in accordance with the relevant rules and regulations in the PRC and fixed assets are adjusted to the revalued amounts accordingly. All direct and indirect costs related to the acquisition or construction of fixed assets, incurred before the assets are ready for their intended uses, are capitalised as construction in progress. Those costs include borrowing costs, which include foreign exchange differences, on specific borrowings for the construction of the fixed assets during the construction period. 32 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) (J) FIXED ASSETS AND CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS (Continued) Construction in progress is transferred to fixed assets when the asset is ready for its intended use. Pursuant to an approval document Cai Kuai Han (2004) No. 39 from the MOF, the Group accounts for rotables as fixed assets. Depreciation is provided to write off the cost of fixed assets over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis, after taking into account their estimated residual values. The respective estimated useful lives, residual values and annual depreciation rates on fixed assets are as follows: DEPRECIABLE LIFE RESIDUAL VALUE ---------------- -------------- Owned & leased aircraft 8 to 15 years 28.75% Other flight equipment: -- Jet engines 8 to 15 years 3% -- Others, including high-value rotables 8 to 15 years Nil Buildings 15 to 40 years Nil Machinery and equipment 5 to 10 years 3% Motor vehicles 6 years 3% Land use rights are stated in the balance sheet at cost or revalued amount less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and are amortised on a straight line basis over the period of land use rights. (K) LEASED ASSETS (i) Finance Lease A finance lease is a lease that transfers substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of an asset to the lessee, whether or not the legal title to the asset is eventually transferred. Flight equipment acquired by way of finance leases are stated at an amount equal to the lower of their original carrying value in the books of the legal owner (the lessor) and the present value of the minimum lease payments at inception of the lease. Depreciation of leased assets is calculated using the straight-line method. If there is no reasonable certainty that the lessee will obtain ownership of the leased assets at the end of the lease term, the leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or their estimated useful lives. If there is reasonable certainty that the lessee will obtain ownership of the leased assets at the end of the lease term, the leased assets are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. At the inception of the lease, the minimum lease payments are recorded as obligations under finance leases. The difference between the value of the leased assets and the minimum lease payments is recognised as unrecognised finance charges under finance leases. Unrecognised finance charges are amortised on an effective interest method over the lease term. (ii) Operating Lease An operating lease is a lease other than a finance lease. Operating lease payments are charged to the income statement on a straight line basis over the terms of the related leases. Contingent rental is recognised as expenses of the current period when actually occurs. 33 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) (L) DEFERRED EXPENDITURE Custom duties and other direct costs in relation to modifying, introducing and certifying certain operating leased aircraft are deferred and amortised on a straight line basis over the terms of the related leases. (M) IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS, FIXED ASSETS, CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS AND OTHER ASSETS The carrying amounts of individual assets are reviewed regularly to determine whether the recoverable amounts have declined below the carrying value. These assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their recorded carrying amounts may not be recoverable. When such a decline has occurred, the carrying amount is reduced to the recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the greater of the estimated net selling price and the estimated value in use. In determining the value in use, estimated future cash flows to be generated by the asset are discounted to their present value. The provision for impairment loss is determined on an item-by-item basis and recognised as an expense in the income statement. If there is an indication that an impairment loss recognised for an asset in prior years may no longer exist, or if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount, which reduces the impairment loss, the provision for impairment loss is reversed. The reversed amount is credited to the income statement in the period in which the reversal is recognised. (N) INCOME TAX Income tax is recognised using the tax effect accounting method. Income tax for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Current tax is calculated at the applicable tax rate on taxable profit. Deferred tax is provided under the liability method, for timing differences between the accounting profit before tax and the taxable profit arising from the differences in the accounting and tax treatment of income and expenses or losses. When the tax rates change or new types of tax are levied, adjustments are made to the amounts originally recognised for the timing differences. The current tax rates are used in arriving at the reversal amounts when the timing differences are reversed. Deferred tax assets arising from the tax value of losses, which are expected to be utilised against future taxable income, are set off against the deferred tax liabilities of the same tax payer and within the same jurisdiction. Deferred tax assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised. (O) MAINTENANCE AND OVERHAUL COSTS Routine maintenance and repairs and overhauls in respect of owned aircrafts and aircrafts held under finance leases are expensed as and when incurred. In respect of aircraft held under operating leases, a provision is made over the lease term for the estimated cost of scheduled overhauls that are required to be performed on the related aircrafts prior to their return to the lessors. 34 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) (P) REVENUE RECOGNITION Provided it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue and costs can be measured reliably, revenue is recognised in the income statement as follows: (i) Passenger, cargo and mail revenues are recognised when the transportation is provided. Ticket sales for transportation not yet provided are included in current liabilities as sales in advance of carriage; (ii) Revenues from airline-related businesses are recognised when the relevant services are rendered; (iii) Interest income is recognised on a time-apportioned basis on the principal outstanding and at the applicable rate; and (iv) Dividend income is recognised when the Group's right to receive the dividend is established. (Q) TRAFFIC COMMISSIONS Traffic commissions are expensed when the transportation is provided and the related revenue is recognised. Traffic commissions for transportation not yet provided are recorded on the balance sheet as a prepaid expense. (R) BORROWING COSTS Borrowing costs incurred on specific borrowings for the construction of fixed assets are capitalised into the cost of the fixed assets during the construction period in which the assets are brought to their intended uses. Except for the above borrowing costs, other borrowing costs are recognised as financial expenses in the income statement when incurred. (S) DIVIDENDS Cash dividends to shareholders are recognised in the income and profit appropriation statement when approved. Dividends proposed or approved after the balance sheet date but before the date on which the financial statements are authorised for issue are separately disclosed under shareholders' equity in the balance sheet. (T) RETIREMENT BENEFITS Contributions to retirement schemes and additional retirement benefits paid to retired employees are charged to the income statement as and when incurred. 35 1 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) (U) FREQUENT FLYER AWARD PROGRAMMES The Group maintains two frequent flyer award programmes, namely, the China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club and the Egret Mileage Plus, which provide travel awards to members based on accumulated mileage. The estimated incremental cost of providing free travel is recognised as an expense and accrued as a current liability as members accumulate mileage. As members redeem awards or their entitlements expire, the incremental cost liability is reduced accordingly, to reflect the acquittal of the outstanding obligations. Revenue from mileage sales to third parties under the frequent flyer award programmes is recognised when the related transportation services are provided. (V) RELATED PARTY Parties are considered to be related to the Group if the Group has the ability, directly or indirectly, to control the party or exercise significant influence over the party in making financial and operating decisions, or vice versa, or where the Group and the party are subject to common control or common significant influence. Related parties may be individuals or entities. 2 SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PRC GAAP AND IFRS Effect of significant differences between PRC GAAP and IFRS on net profit/(loss) are analysed as follows: FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE, ------------------------- 2004 2003 NOTE RMB'000 RMB'000 ---- -------- ---------- Net profit/(loss) under PRC GAAP 333,079 (1,164,757) Adjustments: Gains on aircraft sale and leaseback transactions (a) (15,355) (16,423) Losses on staff housing allocation (b) (55,500) (55,500) Adjustment for revaluation of land use rights (c) 1,936 -- Effect of the above adjustments on taxation 2,024 5,067 ------- ---------- Net profit/(loss) under IFRS 266,184 (1,231,613) ======= ========== 36 2 SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PRC GAAP AND IFRS (Continued) Effect of significant differences between PRC GAAP and IFRS on shareholders' equity are analysed as follows: AS AT AS AT 30 JUNE, 31 DECEMBER, 2004 2003 NOTE RMB'000 RMB'000 ---- ---------- ------------- Shareholders' equity under PRC GAAP 11,882,928 11,549,849 Adjustments: Gains on aircraft sale and leaseback transactions (a) 198,491 213,846 Losses on staff housing allocation (b) 252,667 308,167 Adjustment for revaluation of land use rights (c) (163,484) (165,420) Effect of the above adjustments on taxation (8,711) (10,735) ---------- ---------- Shareholders' equity under IFRS 12,161,891 11,895,707 ========== ========== ----------------- Notes: (a) In accordance with PRC Accounting Rules and Regulations, gains on aircraft sale and leaseback transactions are recorded as deferred credits and amortised over the lease terms on a straight line basis. Under IFRS, gains on sale and leaseback transactions where the subsequent lease is an operating lease are recognised as income immediately, if the transactions are established at fair value. Differences between the sale price and fair value are deferred and amortised over the lease term. (b) In accordance with PRC Accounting Rules and Regulations, losses on staff housing allocation executed by CSAHC on the Company's behalf are charged to retained profits as and when incurred. In addition, lump sum housing benefits are charged to retained profits as of 1 January, 2001 pursuant to the relevant regulations. Under IFRS, losses on staff housing allocations and lump sum housing benefits are charged to the income statement in the obligatory periods stipulated by the relevant contracts. (c) In accordance with PRC Accounting Rules and Regulations, land use rights are carried at revalued amounts. Under IFRS, land use rights are carried at cost with effect from 1 January, 2002. Accordingly, the unamortised surplus on revaluation of the land use rights was reversed against the shareholders' equity. SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES COMPANY LIMITED By /s/ Su Liang ---------------------------------- Name: Su Liang Title: Company Secretary Date: September 10, 2004