UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F

 

(Mark one)

 

  ¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

OR

 

  x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

 

OR

 

  ¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

OR

 

  ¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

for the transition period from ____________to ____________

 

Commission file number 001-34944

 

China Ceramics Co., Ltd.

 

(Exact name of the Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

British Virgin Islands

 

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 

c/o Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd.
Junbing Industrial Zone
Anhai, Jinjiang City
Fujian Province, PRC
Telephone: +86 (595) 8576 5053

 

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Huang Jia Dong
c/o Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd.
Junbing Industrial Zone
Anhai, Jinjiang City
Fujian Province, PRC
Telephone: +86 (595) 8576 5053
Facsimile: +86 (595) 8576 5059

 

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile Number and Address of Company Contact Person)

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
   
SHARES, PAR VALUE $0.008 The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

 

None.

 

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

 

None.

 

On April 25, 2019, the issuer had 6,011,885 shares outstanding.

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

 

Yes ¨              No x

 

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Yes ¨              No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

 

Yes x              No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). 

 

Yes ¨              No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

¨ Large Accelerated filer ¨ Accelerated filer x Non-accelerated filer

 

Emerging growth company ¨

 

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

¨ US GAAP x   International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International  Accounting Standards Board ¨ Other

 

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

 

¨         Item 17             ¨ Item 18

 

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

Yes ¨              No x

 

 

     

 

 

Table of Contents

 

    Page
     
PART I   1
     
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS 1
     
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE 1
     
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION 1
     
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY 18
     
  ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 42
     
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS 43
     
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES 67
     
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 77
     
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION 78
     
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING 80
     
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 81
     
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK 94
     
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES 96
     
PART II   96
     
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES 96
     
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS 96
     
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 96
     
ITEM 16. RESERVED 97
       
  ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT. 97
       
  ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS. 97
       
  ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES. 97
       
  ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES. 98
       
  ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS. 98
       
  ITEM 16F. CHANGES IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT. 98
       
  ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 98
       
PART III   98
     
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 98
     
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 99
     
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS 99

 

  i    

 

 

CERTAIN INFORMATION

 

In this Annual Report on Form 20-F (the “Annual Report”), unless otherwise indicated, “we,” “us,” “our,” and “China Ceramics” refers to China Ceramics Co., Ltd., a British Virgin Islands company, and its subsidiaries, including Success Winner Limited (“Success Winner”), a British Virgin Islands company and wholly owned subsidiary of China Ceramics, Stand Best Creation Limited (“Stand Best”), a Hong Kong company and wholly owned subsidiary of Success Winner and the entity that wholly owns Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd. (“Hengda”), a PRC operating company that in turn wholly owns Jiangxi Hengdali Ceramic Materials Co., Ltd. (“Hengdali”), and Fujian Province Hengdali Building Materials Co., Ltd. each a PRC operating company.

 

On November 20, 2009, China Holdings Acquisition Corp. (“CHAC”), our predecessor, merged with and into China Ceramics, its wholly owned British Virgin Islands subsidiary, resulting in the redomestication of CHAC to the British Virgin Islands as “China Ceramics Co., Ltd.” Immediately following the merger and redomestication (the “Redomestication”), and as part of the same integrated transaction, China Ceramics acquired all of the outstanding securities of Success Winner (the “Business Combination”). Unless the context indicates otherwise, the “Company” refers to CHAC prior to the Business Combination and China Ceramics following the Business Combination.

 

Unless the context indicates otherwise, all references to “China” or “PRC” refer to the People’s Republic of China. All references to “provincial-level regions” or “regions” include provinces as well as autonomous regions and directly controlled municipalities in China, which have an administrative status equal to provinces, including Beijing.

 

All references to “Renminbi,” “RMB” or “yuan” are to the legal currency of the People’s Republic of China, and all references to “U.S. dollars,” “dollars,” “$” are to the legal currency of the United States. This Report contains translations of Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. We make no representation that the Renminbi or U.S. dollar amounts referred to in this Report could have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars or Renminbi, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all. On April 26, 2019, the buying rate announced by the Federal Reserve Statistical Release was RMB 6.7282 to $1.00.

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Report contains “forward-looking statements” that represent our beliefs, projections and predictions about future events. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including any projections of earnings, revenue or other financial items, any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, any statements concerning proposed new projects or other developments, any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance, any statements of management’s beliefs, goals, strategies, intentions and objectives, and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “predicts”, “potential”, “continue”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “future”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates” and similar expressions, as well as statements in the future tense, identify forward-looking statements.

 

These statements are necessarily subjective and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements described in or implied by such statements. Actual results may differ materially from expected results described in our forward-looking statements, including with respect to correct measurement and identification of factors affecting our business or the extent of their likely impact, the accuracy and completeness of the publicly available information with respect to the factors upon which our business strategy is based on the success of our business.

 

Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times by which, our performance or results may be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and management’s belief as of that time with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to, those factors discussed under the headings “Risk Factors”, “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects,” “Information on the Company” and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 

This Annual Report should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements and the accompanying notes thereto, which are included in Item 18 of this Annual Report.

 

  ii    

 

 

PART I

 

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

 

Not required.

 

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

 

Not required.

 

ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

 

  A. Selected financial data

 

The following selected consolidated financial data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014 have been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of China Ceramics included in this Annual Report. This information is only a summary and should be read together with the consolidated financial statements, the related notes, the section entitled “ Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of China Ceramics ” and other financial information included in this Annual Report.

 

The consolidated financial statements are prepared and presented in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). The results of operations of China Ceramics in any period may not necessarily be indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period. See “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Selected Consolidated Financial Data

 

(RMB in Thousands except per Share and Operating Data)

 

    As of December 31  
    2018     2017     2016     2015     2014  
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position Data
Cash and cash equivalents     9,016       2,328       110       514       61,155  
Total current assets     366,895       728,535       781,769       877,772       972,893  
Total assets     366,941       825,418       931,281       1,313,020       1,733,563  
Total current liabilities     90,923       130,682       158,832       224,776       284,535  
Long-term obligations     -       -       -       1,404       1,404  
Total liabilities     90,923       130,682       158,832       226,180       285,939  
Total equity     276,018       694,736       772,449       1,086,840       1,447,624  
Outstanding shares     5,678,703       3,851,485       2,820,939       2,565,136       2,565,136  

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016     2015     2014  
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Data                                        
Revenues     498,189       821,792       793,745       1,017,146       1,037,651  
Gross profit (loss)     (1,166 )     50,354       (30,111 )     125,426       104,431  
Operating income (loss)     (346,620 )     (50,635 )     (89,714 )     85,347       56,095  
Loss before taxation     (418,465 )     (78,285 )     (316,221 )     (339,159 )     (13,890 )
Loss attributable to shareholders     (418,674 )     (88,026 )     (321,802 )     (362,412 )     (30,353 )
Earnings per share –                                        
Basic     (93.18 )     (26.36 )     (116.51 )     (141.91 )     (11.89 )
Diluted     (93.18 )     (26.36 )     (116.51 )     (141.91 )     (11.89 )
Weighted average shares outstanding –                                        
Basic     4,493,036       3,339,487       2,761,998       2,553,855       2,553,855  
Diluted     4,493,036       3,339,487       2,761,998       2,553,855       2,553,855  
Cash dividends declared per share (RMB)             -       -       -       1.28  

 

The following table sets forth information concerning exchange rates between the RMB and the U.S. dollar for the periods indicated. On April 19, 2019, the buying rate announced by the Federal Reserve Statistical Release was RMB 6.7032 to $1.00.

 

    Spot Exchange Rate  
Period   Period
Ended
    Average
(1)
    Low     High  
    (RMB per US$1.00)  
2011     6.2939       6.4475       6.2939       6.6017  
2012     6.2301       6.3093       6.2221       6.3879  
2013     6.0537       6.1478       6.0537       6.2438  
2014     6.2046       6.1619       6.0402       6.2591  
2015     6.4778       6.2827       6.1870       6.4896  
2016     6.9421       6.6424       6.4498       6.9570  
2017     6.5063       6.7568       6.4773       6.9575  
2018                                
January     6.2841       6.4233       6.2841       6.5263  
February     6.3280       6.3183       6.2649       6.3471  
March     6.2726       6.3174       6.2685       6.3565  
April     6.3325       6.2967       6.2655       6.3325  
May     6.4096       6.3701       6.3325       6.4175  
June     6.6171       6.4626       6.3850       6.6235  
July     6.8038       6.7119       6.6123       6.8102  
August     6.8300       6.8453       6.8018       6.9330  
September     6.8680       6.8550       6.8322       6.8880  
October     6.9737       6.9191       6.9102       6.9737  
November     6.9558       6.9367       6.9248       6.9558  
December     6.8755       6.8842       6.8649       6.9077  
                                 
January     6.6958       6.7863       6.6958       6.8708  
February     6.6912       6.7367       6.6822       6.7907  
March     6.7112       6.7119       6.6916       6.7381  
April     6.7032       6.7123       6.7032       6.7223  

   

Source: Federal Reserve Statistical Release.

 

  (1) Annual averages, lows, and highs are calculated from month-end rates. Monthly averages, lows, and highs are calculated using the average of the daily rates during the relevant period.

 

  1  

 

 

  B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

 

Not required.

 

  C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

 

Not required.

 

  D. Risk factors

 

You should carefully consider the following risk factors, together with all of the other information included in this Annual Report.

 

Risk Factors Relating to Our Business

 

We generate a large percentage of our revenues from a limited number of customers and our business will suffer if sales to such customers decline.

 

Our five largest customers accounted for an aggregate of 26.3%, 37.4% and 96.7% of our total revenue in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. We are particularly exposed to the credit risks of these customers as defaults in payment by our major customers would have a significant impact on our cash flows and financial results. Our agreements with our major customers do not specify minimum sales volume. There is no assurance that we will continue to retain these customers or that they will continue to purchase our products at their current levels in the future. If there is any reduction or cancellation of purchase orders by these customers for any reason, including a fall in demand from our customers’ downstream developer clients, or a termination of a relationship with these customers, our revenues will be negatively impacted.

 

Payment defaults by the customers to whom we extend credit would harm our cash flows and results.

 

Our financial position and profitability is dependent on the creditworthiness of our customers. We are exposed to the credit risks of our customers and this risk increases the larger the orders are. We usually offer our customers credit terms of approximately 120 to 150 days. During the past two years our trade receivable turnover has increased substantially. In 2017, it increased to 206 days. In 2018, we have trade receivable turnover of 233 days. We may experience increased credit risk from our customers resulting in an increased level of doubtful or bad debts in the future. Should we experience any unexpected delay or difficulty in collecting receivables from our customers, our cash flows and financial results may be adversely affected. 

 

If our suppliers are unable to fulfill our orders for raw materials, we may lose business.

 

Our suppliers are all located in the PRC. Our purchases of raw materials is based on expected production levels, after taking into consideration, amongst other factors, sales forecasts and actual orders from our customers. To ensure that we are able to deliver quality products at competitive prices, we need to secure sufficient quantities of raw materials at acceptable prices and quality on a timely basis. Typically, we do not enter into any long-term supply agreements with our suppliers. There is no assurance that these suppliers will continue to supply us in the future or that they will do so at acceptable prices. In the event our suppliers are unable to fulfill our orders or meet our requirements, we may not be able to find timely replacements at acceptable prices and quality, and this will delay the fulfillment of our customers’ orders. Consequently, our reputation may be negatively affected, leading to a loss of business and affecting our ability to attract new business.

 

Increases in the price of raw materials will negatively impact our profitability.

 

In fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018 our cost of raw materials and energy source, which consist of clay (comprising mainly of kaolin, flint and feldspar), coal and natural gas (used to heat our kilns), coloring materials and glazing materials, accounted for approximately 62.7%, 71.7% and 61.6% of our total cost of sales, respectively. The price of clay, coal, natural gas, coloring materials and glazing materials may fluctuate due to factors such as global supply and demand for such raw materials and changes in global economic conditions. Coal and natural gas in aggregate accounted for approximately 19.7%, 20.1% and 12.9% of our total costs of raw materials and energy source in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. Any shortages or interruptions in the supply of clay, coal and natural gas, coloring materials or glazing materials will result in an increase in the cost of production, thus increasing our cost of sales. If we are not able to pass on such an increase to our customers or are unable to find alternative sources of clay, coal, coloring materials, or glazing materials or appropriate substitute raw materials at comparable prices, our gross margins and overall financial performance will be adversely affected.

 

  2  

 

 

If China’s inflation increases or the prices of energy or raw materials increase, we may not be able to pass the resulting increased costs to our customers and this may adversely affect our profitability or cause us to suffer operating losses.

 

Economic growth in China has, in the past, been accompanied by periods of high inflation. In the past, the Chinese government has implemented various policies from time to time to control inflation. For example, the Chinese government has periodically introduced measures in certain sectors to avoid overheating of the economy, including tighter bank lending policies, increases in bank interest rates, and measures to curb inflation, which has resulted in a decrease in the rate of inflation. An increase in inflation could cause our costs for energy, labor costs, raw materials and other operating costs to increase, which would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We are dependent on our management team and any loss of our key management personnel without timely and suitable replacements may reduce our revenues and profits.

 

Our Chief Executive Officer, Huang Jia Dong, has worked with our company since founding it over twenty years ago. Accordingly, our success is dependent to a large extent on our ability to retain Messrs. Huang, who are responsible for formulating and implementing our growth, corporate development and overall business strategies. Mr. Huang currently beneficially owns 1,001,913 shares in the Company. Our employment agreements with Mr. Huang ended on January 31, 2012, and there is no assurance that we will be able to enter new long-term agreements with Mr. Huang. Our business is also dependent on our executive officers who are responsible for implementing our business plans and driving growth. Please refer to “Directors, Senior Management and Employees” herein for more information about our directors and officers. The demand for such experienced personnel is intense and the search for personnel with the relevant skills set can be time consuming. The loss of our key management personnel without timely and suitable replacements may reduce our revenues and profits.

 

Failure to compete successfully with our competitors and new entrants to the ceramics industry in the PRC may result in China Ceramics losing market share.

 

We operate in a competitive and fragmented industry. There is no assurance that we will not face competition from our existing competitors and new entrants. We compete with a variety of companies, some of which have advantages that include: longer operating history, larger clientele base, superior products, better access to capital, personnel and technology, or are better entrenched. Our competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new and emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements or succeed in developing products that are more effective or less costly than our products. Any increase in competition could have a negative impact on our pricing (thus eroding our profit margins) and reduce our market share. If we are unable to compete effectively with our existing and future competitors and do not adapt quickly to changing market conditions, we may lose market share.

 

We have not purchased product liability insurance and any loss resulting from product liability claims must be paid by us.

 

Accidents may arise as a result of defects in our products. If there are any defects in the products designed and/or manufactured by us, we may face claims from our customers or third parties for the personal injury or property damage suffered as a result of such defects. We have not purchased insurance coverage for product liability or third party liability and are therefore not covered or compensated by insurance in respect of losses, damages, claims and liabilities arising from or in connection with product liability or third party liability.

 

  3  

 

 

Our production facilities may be affected by power shortages which could result in a loss of business.

 

Our production facilities consume substantial amounts of electrical power, which is the principal source of energy for our manufacturing operations. Although we have a back-up generator at both our production facilities, we may experience occasional temporary power shortages disrupting production due to power rationing activities conducted by the authorities, thunderstorms or other natural events beyond our control. Accordingly, these production disruptions could result in a loss of business.

 

Our research and development efforts may not result in marketable products.

 

Our research and development team develops products which we have identified as having good potential in the market. There is no assurance that we will not experience delays in future product developments. There is also no assurance that the products which we are currently developing or may develop in the future will be successful or that we will be able to market these new products to our customers successfully. If our new products are unable to gain the acceptance of our customers or potential customers, we will not be able to generate future sales from our investment in research and development.

 

We may not be able to ensure the successful implementation of our future plans and strategies, resulting in reduced financial performance.

 

We intend to expand our market presence and explore opportunities in strategic investments or alliances and acquisitions. These initiatives involve various risks including, but not limited to, the investment costs in setting up new offices and sales offices and working capital requirements. There is no assurance that any future plan can be successfully implemented as the successful execution could depend on several factors, some of which are not within our control. Failure to successfully implement our future plans or to effectively manage costs may lead to a material adverse change in our operating environment or affect our ability to respond to market or industry changes, resulting in reduced financial performance.

 

Decelerating economic growth in China has caused challenging market conditions in the real estate and construction sectors resulting in a contraction in investment and new housing projects by property developers. The challenging market conditions has resulted in an expected contraction in demand for our products. Due to the reduced demand for our products, we recently recorded an impairment of assets. As we are currently operating our facilities at significantly less than our maximum capacity, this could reduce our profitability.

 

Our facilities currently provide an aggregate annual maximum production capacity of approximately 56.5 million square meters. However, due to a reduction in demand, we are currently utilizing production facilities capable of producing only 16.9 million square meters. In addition, we currently have 12 production lines of which only 3 were utilized as of the end of 2018 due to challenging macroeconomic conditions that began in the fourth quarter of 2012. The fact that a significant portion of our facilities are not being used means that our net income will be significantly less than it would otherwise be because we must maintain those unused facilities even though they are not currently being productive. Because certain of our facilities have remained idle for an extended period of time, the Company recorded an impairment charge of RMB 85.0 million (US$ 12.9 million) in the second half of 2018 related to property, plant and equipment, and land use rights at its Hengda and Hengdali production facilities. The impairment of the non-current assets is attributable to challenging market conditions in China which resulted in a contraction in demand for the Company’s products in 2018. If our facilities continue to remain idle, we may be required to take an additional impairment charge on our financial statements.

 

In order to maintain our market share and move inventory, in July of 2018, we decreased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 10%, but this decrease did not offset the fall in our sales volume due to deteriorating market conditions that persisted through the second half of 2018, and we do not believe that further price decreases would have had a beneficial effect upon sales volume for this period. In past periods, we also decreased the pricing of our products in order to increase sales. On July 1, 2016, we reduced the selling price of certain of our slow moving products beginning on July 1, 2016 with the goal to turn some of this inventory into cash. Beginning on October 1, 2016, in order to generate sales and move inventory, we instituted a 20% reduction of our slow-moving products. This price reduction led to a 35% increase in our sales volume in the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to the same period of 2015. The fourth quarter of 2016 growth in sales volume was the first positive comparison to the previous comparable period after four straight fiscal quarters of period over period decline in this key metric. Our strategy of decreasing the pricing of our products may or may not result in an increase in our sales volume during differing periods  . In addition, if customers grow accustomed to such significant reductions, we may need to offer significant discounts in the future, which could reduce our net income and revenues long term.

 

  4  

 

 

We may lose revenue if our intellectual property rights are not protected and counterfeit HD, Hengda, HDL, Hengdeli, WULIQIAO, TOERTO or Pottery Capital of Tang Dynasty brand products are sold in the market.

 

We believe our intellectual property rights are important to our success and competitive position. A portion of our products are manufactured and marketed under our “HD” or “Hengda,” “HDL” or “Hengdeli,” “Pottery Capital of Tang Dynasty”, “TOERTO” and “WULIQIAO” labels. We have filed our labels as trademarks in the PRC. Before April13, 2011, WULIQIAO was a trademark owned by Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. Hengda signed a Trademark Licensing Contract with Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. and was licensed the exclusive right to use WULIQIAO during the terms of that trademark. Since April 13, 2011, WULIQIAO has been transferred to Hengdali, according to Certificate of Approved Transference of Trademark issued on April 13, 2011 by the Trademark Office of the State Administration for Industry & Commerce of the P.R.C. In addition, we own twenty-two utility model patents and have certain trade secrets and unpatented proprietary technology. We cannot assure you that there will not be any unauthorized usage or misuse of our trademarks and patent rights or that our intellectual property rights will be adequately protected as it may be difficult and costly to monitor any infringements of our intellectual property rights in the PRC. If we cannot adequately protect our intellectual property, we may lose revenue.

 

In addition, we believe the branding of our products and the brand equity in our “HD” or “Hengda”, “HDL or Hengdeli”, “Pottery Capital of Tang Dynasty”, “TOERTO” and “WULIQIAO” trademarks is critical to our expansion effort and the continued success of our business. Our efforts to build our brand may be undermined by the sale of counterfeit goods. The counterfeiting of our products may increase if our products become more popular. In order to preserve and enforce our intellectual property rights, we may have to resort to litigation against the infringing or counterfeiting parties. Such litigation could result in substantial costs and diversion of management resources which may have an effect on our financial performance. 

 

We may inadvertently infringe third-party intellectual property rights, which could negatively impact our business and financial results.

 

We are not aware of, nor have we received any claims from third parties for, any violations or infringements of intellectual property rights of third parties by us as of the date of this Annual Report. Nevertheless, there can be no assurance that as we develop new product designs and production methods, we would not inadvertently infringe the intellectual property rights of others or others would not assert infringement claims against us or claim that we have infringed their intellectual property rights. Claims against us, even if untrue or baseless, could result in significant costs, legal or otherwise, cause product shipment delays, require us to develop non-infringing products, enter into licensing agreements or may be a distraction to our management. Licensing agreements, if required, may not be available on terms acceptable to us or at all. In the event of a successful claim of intellectual property rights infringement against us and our failure or inability to develop non-infringing products or to license the infringed intellectual property rights in a timely or cost-effective basis, our business and/or financial results will be negatively impacted.

 

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The PRC government has historically introduced certain policy and regulatory measures to control the rapid increase in housing prices and cool down the real estate construction market and has more recently adopted policies to stimulate the real estate sector, and the government in the future may refrain from supporting the sector or adopt measures in the future that may further adversely affect our business.

 

Our business depends on the level of business activity in the property development and construction industries that use our products in their operations in the PRC. Our products are sold to customers in the property development and construction industries. If the property and construction industries fall into a recession in the future, the demand for construction materials, such as ceramic tiles, may consequently decrease and have a significant adverse effect on our business.

 

The PRC government has committed to taking steps to regulate real estate development, promote the healthy development of the real estate industry in China, and strengthen the supervision over land for real estate development purposes. For example, in his 2010 annual report to the National People’s Congress, as part of the 12 th Five-Year Plan, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao pledged to curb the rise of housing prices in certain cities to increase the availability of affordable housing. The PRC government has also enacted measures to cool down the real estate construction market and imposed lending curbs, higher mortgage rates, higher down payments, a price cap on new developments and restrictions on the number of homes each family can buy. This offered some incentive for property developers to develop new residential housing due to continued uncertainty, resulting in the recent slowing construction sector. The PRC government has also adopted an array of policies to stimulate the real estate sector which includes cutting benchmark interest rates five times in 2015, a lowering of the reserve requirement ratio for banks, lower first home down payment ratios and a cut in the minimum capital ratio for fixed asset investments which would help property developers. Although the Central Government’s measures have helped to sustain the real estate sector from time to time, there has been a substantial slowdown in construction activity, and it is not clear if supportive monetary and regulatory policies will continue in the future. We also cannot be certain that the PRC government will not issue additional and more stringent regulations or measures or that agencies and banks will not adopt restrictive measures or practices in response to PRC governmental policies and regulations, which could negatively affect the industries we serve in the PRC, and thereby harm our sales.

 

Our manufacturing activities are dependent upon availability of skilled and unskilled labor, a deficiency of which could result in a reduction in profits.

 

Our manufacturing activities are labor intensive and dependent on the availability of skilled and unskilled labor in large numbers. Large labor intensive operations call for good monitoring and maintenance of cordial relations. Non-availability of labor, poor labor management and/or any disputes between the labor and management may result in a reduction in profits. Further, we rely on contractors who engage on-site laborers for performance of many of our unskilled operations. The scarcity or unavailability of contract laborers may affect our operations and financial performance.

 

We face increasing labor costs and other costs of production in the PRC, which could limit our profitability.

 

The ceramic tile manufacturing industry is labor intensive. Labor costs in China have been increasing in recent years and our labor costs in the PRC could continue to increase in the future. If labor costs in the PRC continue to increase, our production costs will likely increase which may in turn affect the selling prices of our products. We may not be able to pass on these increased costs to consumers by increasing the selling prices of our products in light of competitive pressure in the markets where we operate. In such circumstances, our profit margin may decrease.

 

Violation of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act or China anti-corruption law could subject us to penalties and other adverse consequences.

 

We are subject to the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which generally prohibits United States public companies from bribing or making prohibited payments to foreign officials to obtain or retain business. PRC law also strictly prohibits bribery of government officials. While we take precautions to educate our employees about the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and Chinese anti-corruption law, there can be no assurance that we or the employees or agents of our subsidiaries will not engage in such conduct, for which we may be held responsible. If that were to occur, we could suffer penalties that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Our independent registered public accounting firm’s audit documentation related to their audit reports included in this annual report may be located in the People’s Republic of China. The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board currently cannot inspect audit documentation located in China and, as such, you may be deprived of the benefits of such inspection.

 

Auditors of companies whose shares are registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and traded publicly in the United States, including our independent registered public accounting firm, must be registered with the U.S. Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (the “PCAOB”) and are required by the laws of the United States to undergo regular inspections by the PCAOB to assess their compliance with the laws of the United States and professional standards applicable to auditors. Because we have substantial operations within the PRC, a jurisdiction where the PCAOB is currently unable to conduct inspections without the approval of the Chinese authorities, our auditor is not currently inspected by the PCAOB. In May 2013, the PCAOB announced that it had entered into a Memorandum of Understanding on Enforcement Cooperation with the China Securities Regulatory Commission, or CSRC, and the PRC Ministry of Finance, which establishes a cooperative framework between the parties for the production and exchange of audit documents relevant to investigations undertaken by the PCAOB, the CSRC or the Ministry of Finance in the United States and the PRC, respectively. The PCAOB continues to be in discussions with the CSRC and the Ministry of Finance to permit joint inspections in the PRC of audit firms that are registered with the PCAOB and audit Chinese companies that trade on U.S. exchanges. This lack of PCAOB inspections in China prevents the PCAOB from regularly evaluating audits and quality control procedures of any auditors operating in China, including our auditor. As a result, investors may be deprived of the benefits of PCAOB inspections. The inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of auditors in China makes it more difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of our auditor's audit procedures or quality control procedures as compared to auditors outside of China that are subject to PCAOB inspections. Investors may lose confidence in our reported financial information and procedures and the quality of our financial statements.

 

Proceedings instituted by the SEC against certain PRC-based accounting firms could result in financial statements being determined to not be in compliance with the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act.

 

On December 3, 2012, the SEC issued an order instituting administrative proceedings against five of the largest global public accounting firms relating to work performed in the PRC and such firms’ failure to provide audit work papers to the SEC in this regard. Our independent registered public accounting firm is not one of the accounting firms referenced in the order. On January 22, 2014, an initial administrative law decision was issued, censuring the five accounting firms and suspending four of the five firms from practicing before the SEC for a period of six months. On February 12, 2014, four of these PRC-based accounting firms appealed to the SEC against this decision. In February 2015, each of the four PRC-based accounting firms agreed to a censure and to pay a fine to the SEC to settle the dispute and avoid suspension of their ability to practice before the SEC. The settlement requires the firms to follow detailed procedures to seek to provide the SEC with access to Chinese firms’ audit documents via the CSRC. If the firms do not follow these procedures, the SEC could impose penalties such as suspensions, or it could restart the administrative proceedings. In the event that the SEC restarts the administrative proceedings, depending upon the final outcome, listed companies in the United States with major PRC operations may find it difficult or impossible to retain auditors in respect of their operations in the PRC, which could result in financial statements being determined to not be in compliance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, including possible delisting. Moreover, any negative news about the proceedings against these audit firms may cause investor uncertainty regarding China-based, United States-listed companies and the market price of our shares may be adversely affected. If our independent registered public accounting firm was denied, temporarily, the ability to practice before the SEC and we were unable to timely find another registered public accounting firm to audit and issue an opinion on our financial statements, our financial statements could be determined to not be in compliance with the requirements of the Exchange Act.

 

Risk Factors Relating to Operations In China

 

We are dependent on political, economic, regulatory and social conditions in the PRC.

 

Approximately 95% of our revenue in each of the last three fiscal years was derived from the PRC market and we anticipate that the PRC market will continue to be the major source of revenue for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, any significant slowdown in the PRC economy or decline in demand for our products from our customers in the PRC will have an adverse effect on our business and financial performance. Furthermore, as our operations and production facilities are located in the PRC, any unfavorable changes in the social and/or political conditions may also adversely affect our business and operations. While the current policy of the PRC government seems to be one of economic reform to encourage foreign investments and greater economic decentralization, there is no assurance that such a policy will continue to prevail in the future. There is no assurance that our operations will not be adversely affected should there be any policy changes.

 

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We are subject to risks related to the laws and regulations of the PRC and the interpretation and implementation thereof.

 

Our business and operations, as well as those of our customers and suppliers in the PRC, are subject to the laws and regulations promulgated by relevant PRC governmental authorities. The PRC government is still in the process of developing a comprehensive set of laws and regulations in the course of the PRC’s transformation from a centrally planned economy to a freer market oriented economy. As the legal system in the PRC is still in flux, laws and regulations or their interpretation may be subject to change. Furthermore, any change in the political and economic policy of the PRC government may also result in similar changes in the laws and regulations or the interpretation thereof. Such changes may adversely affect our operations and business in the PRC.

 

The PRC legal system is a codified legal system comprising written laws, regulations, circulars, administrative directives, and internal guidelines as well as judicial interpretations. Decided cases do not form part of the legal structure of the PRC and thus have no binding effect. As such, the administration of PRC laws and regulations may be subject to a certain degree of discretion by the authorities. This has resulted in the outcome of dispute resolutions not having the level of consistency or predictability as in other countries with more developed legal systems. Due to such inconsistency and unpredictability, if we should be involved in any legal dispute in the PRC, we may experience difficulties in obtaining legal redress or in enforcing our legal rights.

 

From time to time, changes in law, registration requirements, and regulations or the implementation thereof may also require us to obtain additional approvals and licenses from the PRC authorities for carrying out our operations in the PRC which would require us to incur additional expenses in order to comply with such requirements and in turn affect our financial performance with the increase in our business costs. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that approvals, registrations, or licenses will be granted to us promptly or at all. If we experience delays in obtaining or are unable to obtain such required approvals, registrations, or licenses, our operations and business in the PRC, and hence our overall financial performance will be adversely affected.

 

Our business activities are subject to certain PRC laws and regulations.

 

As our production and operations are carried out in the PRC, we are subject to certain PRC laws and regulations. In addition, being wholly foreign-owned enterprises, we are required to comply with certain additional laws and regulations. Pursuant to PRC laws and regulations, the breach or non-compliance with such laws and regulations may result in the PRC authorities suspending, withdrawing or terminating our business license, causing us to cease production of all or certain of our products, and this would materially and adversely affect our business and financial performance.

 

Our corporate affairs in the PRC are governed by our articles of association and the corporate and foreign investment laws and regulations of the PRC. The principles of the PRC laws relating to matters such as the fiduciary duties of directors and other corporate governance matters and foreign investment laws in the PRC are relatively new. Hence, the enforcement of investors or shareholders’ rights under the articles of association of a PRC company and the interpretation of the relevant laws relating to corporate governance matters remain largely untested in the PRC.

 

PRC foreign exchange control may limit our ability to utilize our profits effectively and affect our ability to receive dividends and other payments from our PRC subsidiaries.

 

Hengda is a foreign investment enterprise, or “FIE,” and is subject to the rules and regulations in the PRC on currency conversion. In the PRC, State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or SAFE, regulates the conversion of the RMB into foreign currencies. Currently, FIEs are required to apply to SAFE for “Foreign Exchange Registration Certificates for Foreign Investment Enterprise”. With such registration certifications (which need to be renewed annually), FIEs are allowed to open foreign currency accounts including the “current account” and “capital account”. Currently, conversion of currency within the scope of the “current account” (e.g. remittance of foreign currencies for payment of dividends, etc.) can be affected without requiring the approval of SAFE. However, conversion of currency in the “capital account” (e.g. for capital items such as direct investments, loans, securities, etc.) still requires the approval of SAFE.

 

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On October 21, 2005, SAFE promulgated the “Notice on Issues concerning Foreign Exchange Management in Financing by PRC Residents by Overseas Special Purpose Vehicle and Return Investments” (the “No. 75 Notice”).

 

The No. 75 Notice came into effect on November 1, 2005 and requires the following matters, among others, to be complied with: every PRC domestic resident who establishes or controls an overseas special purpose vehicle, or “SPV,” must apply to the local bureau of SAFE for an “overseas investment foreign exchange registration.”

 

Every PRC domestic resident of an SPV who has completed the “overseas investment foreign exchange registration”, or “Registrant,” must make an application to the local bureau of SAFE to amend their registration particulars upon (i) the injection of any PRC domestic assets or the equity interests of any PRC domestic company owned by the PRC domestic resident into the SPV, and (ii) the implementation of any overseas equity fund-raising by the SPV following an injection of PRC domestic assets or the equity interests of a PRC domestic company; every Registrant must apply to the local bureau of SAFE for change of registration particulars or recordation within 30 days after the occurrence of any capital increase or reduction, changes in shareholdings or share swap, merger, long-term investment in equities or debentures, guarantee of foreign indebtedness and other major capital changes not involving “return investment”, undertaken by an SPV; and every Registrant must repatriate, within 180 days, dividends or profits which he receives from an SPV and/or income derived from changes in the shareholding of an SPV.

 

On July 14, 2014, China’s State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), the foreign exchange control authority, released the Notice of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Administration for Overseas Investment, Financing and Round Trip Investment Undertaken by Domestic Residents via Special Purpose Vehicles (Notice 37). The new regulation took effect July 4, 2014. At that time, the old regulation, “Notice on Issues concerning Foreign Exchange Management in Financing by PRC Residents by Overseas Special Purpose Vehicle and Return Investments” (the “No. 75 Notice”), which was issued in 2005, was repealed. Compared with Circular 75, Circular 37 reflects the trend of SAFE’s policy to gradually loosen the restrictions and simplify the procedures for overseas financing and investment by Chinese residents, so as to fully utilize the financial resources in domestic and overseas markets. However, as Circular 37 has only recently been issued, the actual interpretation and enforcement of the above changes by SAFE in practice remain to be seen.

 

There can be no assurance that SAFE will not continue to issue new rules and regulations and/or further interpretations of the No. 37 Notice that will strengthen the foreign exchange control. As we are located in the PRC and all of our sales are denominated in RMB, our ability to pay dividends or make other distributions may be restricted by PRC foreign exchange control restrictions. There can be no assurance that the relevant regulations will not be amended to our detriment and that our ability to distribute dividends will not be adversely affected.

 

Introduction of new laws or changes to existing laws by the PRC government may adversely affect our business.

 

The PRC legal system is based on the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China and is made up of written laws, regulations, circulars and directives. With the PRC’s entry into the WTO, the PRC government is in the process of developing its legal system so as to encourage foreign investments and to meet the needs of investors. As the PRC economy is developing at a generally faster rate than its legal system, some degree of uncertainty exists in connection with whether and how existing laws and regulations will apply to certain events or circumstances. Some of the laws and regulations, and the interpretation, implementation and enforcement thereof, are still at the experimental stage and therefore subject to policy changes. There is no assurance that the introduction of new laws or regulations, changes to existing laws and regulations and the interpretation or application thereof or the delays in obtaining approvals from the relevant PRC authorities will not have an adverse impact on our business or prospects.

 

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In particular, on August 8, 2006, the Ministry of Commerce, the China Securities Regulatory Commission, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, the State Administration of Taxation, the State Administration of Industry and Commerce and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange promulgated the “Rules on the Mergers and Acquisition of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors” which came into effect on September 8, 2006, or “the M&A Rules.” Foreign investors should comply with the rules when they purchase shareholding equities of a PRC domestic non-foreign-funded enterprise, or Domestic Company, or subscribe to the increased capital of a Domestic Company, and thus changing the nature of the Domestic Company into a foreign investment enterprise. The rules stipulate, inter alia, (i) that the acquisition of a Domestic Company by an affiliated foreign enterprise established or controlled by PRC entities or individuals must be approved by the Ministry of Commerce; (ii) that the incorporation of a special purpose vehicle, which is directly or indirectly controlled by PRC entities for the purpose of an overseas listing of the equity interest of a Domestic Company, must be subject to the approval of the Ministry of Commerce; (iii) that the acquisition of a Domestic Company by a special purpose vehicle shall be subject to approval of the Ministry of Commerce and (iv) the offshore listing of a special purpose vehicle shall be subject to the prior approval from China Securities Regulatory Commission.

 

As Hengda was incorporated as a FIE and China Ceramics does not fall within the scope of being classified as a special purpose vehicle directly or indirectly established or controlled by PRC entities or individuals, the M&A Rules did not apply to the Business Combination, and we were not required to obtain the approval from the Ministry of Commerce, the approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission and/or any other approvals from PRC government authorities as stipulated by the M&A Rules. There is however no assurance that the PRC authorities will not issue further directives, regulations, clarifications or implementation rules, which may require us or other relevant parties to obtain further approvals with respect to the Business Combination. If new laws are promulgated or the existing laws are reinterpreted, our structure could be determined to be in violation of such laws and subject to sanction by applicable government authorities.

 

Environmental, health and safety laws have in the past and may in the future impose material liabilities on us and require us to incur material capital and operational costs.

 

We are subject to environmental, health and safety laws and regulations in the PRC that impose controls on our air, water and waste discharges, on our storage, handling, use, discharge and disposal of chemicals, and on exposure of our employees to hazardous substances. These laws and regulations could require us to incur costs to maintain compliance and could impose liability to remedy the effects of hazardous substance contamination. Although we do not believe that we have violated any of such laws and regulations and therefore have not incurred any significant liabilities under these laws and regulations in the past, the environmental laws and regulations are constantly evolving and becoming stricter in the PRC. The adoption of new laws or regulations or our failure to comply with these laws or regulations in the future could cause us to incur material liabilities and could require us to incur additional expenses, curtail operations and/or restrict our ability to expand. Hengdali is currently in the process of applying for a Pollutant Discharge Permit, and the environmental protection agency in Gaoan has accepted Hengdali’s application. If the Pollutant Discharge Permit is not issued and Hengdali discharges pollutants, Hengdali may be warned, ordered to stop discharging pollutants, and/or fined by the environmental protection agency.

  

During 2014, our Hengda facility was required by the local governmental entity to begin using natural gas to operate the facility, as opposed to coal. This mandated change in fuel source is part of a province-wide (and country-wide) effort to reduce pollution. This change resulted in our incurring a one-time charge of approximately RMB5.6 million ($0.9 million) in December 2013, and will increase our cost of goods produced at that facility because natural gas is a more expensive energy source than coal. There is no assurance that in the future our other production facilities will not be required to make similar modifications which could have similar adverse effects on our operations.

 

Our business will suffer if we lose our land use rights.

 

There is no private ownership of land in China and all land ownership is held by the government of China, its agencies, and collectives. In the case of land used for business purposes, land use rights can be obtained from the government for a period up to 50 years, and are typically renewable. Land use rights can be granted upon approval by the land administrative authorities of China (State Land Administration Bureau) upon payment of the required land granting fee, the entry into a land use agreement with a competent governmental authority and certain other ministerial procedures. We have received land use certificates for certain parcels of land on which our operations reside, but we may not have followed all procedures required to obtain such certificates or paid all required fees. If the Chinese administrative authorities determine that we have not fully complied with all procedures and requirements needed to hold a land use certificate, we may be forced by the Chinese administrative authorities to retroactively comply with such procedures and requirements, which may be burdensome and require us to make payments, or such Chinese administrative authorities may invalidate or revoke our land use certificate entirely. If the land use right certificates needed for our operations are determined by the government of China to be invalid or if they are not renewed, we may lose production facilities or employee accommodations that would be difficult or even impossible to replace. Should we have to relocate, our workforce may be unable or unwilling to work in the new location and our business operations will be disrupted during the relocation. The relocation or loss of facilities could cause us to lose sales and/or increase our costs of production, which would negatively impact our financial results.

 

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We own certain buildings collectively, which may limit our right to use, renovate or dispose of such buildings.

 

Together with three other companies, we collectively own several buildings located at the Junbing Industrial Zone in Jinjiang City with a total construction area of 29,120.83 square meters. As a result, our right to use, renovate and dispose of such buildings may be limited.

 

Our Business Will Suffer If We Fail to Comply With Environmental Protection Regulations

 

Companies which cause severe pollution to the environment are required to restore the environment or remedy the effects of the pollution within a prescribed time limit. If a company fails to report and/or register the environmental pollution it caused, it will receive a warning or be penalized. Companies that fail to restore the environment or remedy the effects of the pollution within the prescribed time will be penalized or have their business licenses terminated. Companies that have polluted and endangered the environment must bear the responsibility for remedying the danger and effects of the pollution, as well as to compensate any losses or damages suffered as a result of such environmental pollution.

 

Our Hengda facility obtained a Temporary Pollutant Discharge Permit (No.350582-2014-000260) granted by Jinjiang City Environmental Protection Bureau expired on May 1, 2016. Hengdali is currently in the process of applying for a Pollutant Discharge Permit, and the environmental protection agency in Gaoan has accepted Hengdali’s application. If the Pollutant Discharge Permit is not issued and Hengdali discharges pollutants, Hengdali may be warned, ordered to stop discharging pollutants, and/or fined by the environmental protection agency. If Hengdali’s application is denied, or if the Hengdali facility is ordered to stop discharging pollutants or is fined, that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

Our corporate structure together with applicable law impede shareholders from asserting claims against us and our principals.

 

All of our operations and records, and all of our senior management are located in the People’s Republic of China. Shareholders of companies such as ours have limited ability to assert and collect on claims in litigation against such companies and their principals. In addition, China has very restrictive secrecy laws that prohibit the delivery of many of the financial records maintained by a business located in China to third parties absent Chinese government approval. Since discovery is an important part of proving a claim in litigation, and since most if not all of our records are in China, Chinese secrecy laws could frustrate efforts to prove a claim against us or our management.

 

In order to commence litigation in the United States against an individual such as an officer or director, that individual must be served. Generally, service requires the cooperation of the country in which a defendant resides. China has a history of failing to cooperate in efforts to affect such service upon Chinese citizens in China.

 

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If we become directly subject to the recent scrutiny involving U.S.-listed Chinese companies, we may have to expend significant resources to investigate and/or defend the matter, which could harm our business operations, stock price and reputation and could result in a complete loss of your investment in us.

 

In recent years, U.S. public companies that have substantially all of their operations in China have been the subject of intense scrutiny by investors, financial commentators and regulatory agencies. Although a portion of this scrutiny seems to have abated, this scrutiny has centered around financial and accounting irregularities and mistakes, a lack of effective internal controls over financial reporting and, in many cases, allegations of fraud. As a result of the scrutiny, the publicly traded stock of many U.S. listed China-based companies that have been the subject of such scrutiny has sharply decreased in value. Many of these companies are now subject to shareholder lawsuits and/or SEC enforcement actions that are conducting internal and/or external investigations into the allegations. If we become the subject of any such scrutiny, whether any allegations are true or not, we may have to expend significant resources to investigate such allegations and/or defend our company. Such investigations or allegations will be costly and time-consuming and distract our management from our business plan and could result in our reputation being harmed and our stock price could decline as a result of such allegations, regardless of the truthfulness of the allegations.

 

Risks to China Ceramics’ Shareholders

 

The price of our shares could be volatile and could decline at a time when you want to sell your holdings.

 

The price of our shares has been and may continue to be volatile, and that volatility may continue for an extended period of time. Since the completion of the business combination through April 20, 2019, the trading price of our shares ranged between $36.32 and $0.80 per share. In June 2016, following Special Meeting of shareholders held on May 23, 2016, the Company effected a 1-for-8 combination of all of the Company’s outstanding ordinary shares. The Company’s shareholders also authorized an amendment to the Company’s Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association to increase the par value of the Company’s shares from $0.001 per share to $0.008 per share.

 

There is a risk that China Ceramics could be treated as a U.S. domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes after the Redomestication and the Business Combination, which, among other things, could result in significantly greater U.S. federal income tax liability to China Ceramics.

 

Section 7874(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) generally provides that a corporation organized outside the United States that acquires, directly or indirectly, pursuant to a plan or series of related transactions substantially all of the assets of a corporation organized in the United States will be treated as a domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if shareholders of the acquired corporation, by reason of owning shares of the acquired corporation, own at least 80% (of either the voting power or the value) of the stock of the acquiring corporation after the acquisition. Under regulations promulgated under Section 7874, a warrant holder of either the acquired corporation or the acquiring corporation generally is treated for this purpose as owning stock of the acquired corporation or the acquiring corporation, as the case may be, with a value equal to the excess of the value of the shares underlying the warrant over the exercise price of the warrant. If Section 7874(b) were to have applied to the Redomestication, then, among other things, China Ceramics, as the surviving entity, would have been subject to U.S. federal income tax on its worldwide taxable income following the Redomestication and the Business Combination as if China Ceramics were a domestic corporation.

 

Although Section 7874(b) should not have applied to treat China Ceramics as a domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, due to the absence of full guidance on how the rules of Section 7874(b) applied to the transactions completed pursuant to the Redomestication and Business Combination, this result is not entirely free from doubt. Shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors on this issue. See the discussion in the section entitled “Taxation — United States Federal Income Taxation — Tax Treatment of China Ceramics After the Redomestication and the Business Combination.” The balance of this discussion assumes that China Ceramics has been and will be treated as a foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

There is a risk that China Ceramics will be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or “PFIC,” which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. holders of its securities.

 

In general, China Ceramics will be treated as a PFIC for any taxable year in which either (1) at least 75% of its gross income (including its pro rata share of the gross income of its 25% or more-owned corporate subsidiaries) is passive income or (2) at least 50% of the average value of its assets (including its pro rata share of the assets of its 25% or more-owned corporate subsidiaries) produce, or are held for the production of, passive income. Passive income generally includes dividends, interest, rents, royalties, and gains from the disposition of passive assets. If China Ceramics is determined to be a PFIC for any taxable year (or portion thereof) that is included in the holding period of a U.S. Holder (as defined in the section entitled “Taxation—United States Federal Income Taxation—General”) of its shares, the U.S. Holder may be subject to increased U.S. federal income tax liability upon a sale or other disposition of the shares of China Ceramics or the receipt of certain excess distributions from China Ceramics and may be subject to additional reporting requirements. Based on the composition (and estimated values) of the assets and the nature of the income of China Ceramics and its subsidiaries during its 2015 taxable year, China Ceramics does not believe that it would be treated as a PFIC for such year. However, because China Ceramics has not performed a definitive analysis as to its PFIC status for its 2015 taxable year, there can be no assurance in respect to its PFIC status for such year. There also can be no assurance with respect to China Ceramics’ status as a PFIC for its current (2016) taxable year or any future taxable year. U.S. Holders of the shares of China Ceramics are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the possible application of the PFIC rules. See the discussion in the section entitled “Taxation—United States Federal Income Taxation—U.S. Holders—Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules.”

 

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Under the EIT Law, China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best may be classified as a “resident enterprise” of the PRC. Such classification could result in PRC tax consequences to China Ceramics, our non-PRC resident shareholders, Success Winner and/or Stand Best.

 

On March 16, 2007, the National People’s Congress approved and promulgated a new tax law, the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, or “EIT Law,” which took effect on January 1, 2008. Under the EIT Law, enterprises are classified as “resident enterprises” and non-resident enterprises. An enterprise established outside of China with “de facto management bodies” within China is considered a “resident enterprise,” meaning that it can be treated in a manner similar to a Chinese enterprise for enterprise income tax purposes.

 

The implementing rules of the EIT Law define “de facto management bodies” as a managing body that in practice exercises “substantial and overall management and control over the production and operations, personnel, accounting, and properties” of the enterprise; however, it remains unclear whether the PRC tax authorities would deem our managing body as being located within China. Due to the short history of the EIT Law and lack of applicable legal precedents, the PRC tax authorities determine the PRC tax resident treatment of a foreign (non-PRC) company on a case-by-case basis.

 

If the PRC tax authorities determine that China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best is a “resident enterprise” for PRC enterprise income tax purposes, a number of PRC tax consequences could follow. First, China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best may be subject to the enterprise income tax at a rate of 25% on China Ceramics’, Success Winner’s and/or Stand Best’s worldwide taxable income, as well as PRC enterprise income tax reporting obligations. Second, under the EIT Law and its implementing rules, dividends paid between “qualified resident enterprises” are exempt from enterprise income tax. As a result, if China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best are each treated as “qualified resident enterprises,” all dividends from Hengda to China Ceramics (through Success Winner and Stand Best) should be exempt from the PRC enterprise income tax.

 

If Stand Best were treated as a PRC “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, then dividends that Stand Best receives from Hengda (assuming such dividends were considered sourced within the PRC) (i) may be subject to a 5% PRC withholding tax, provided that Stand Best owns more than 25% of the registered capital of Hengda continuously within 12 months immediately prior to obtaining such dividend from Hengda, and the Arrangement between the Mainland of China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income, or the “PRC-Hong Kong Tax Treaty,” were otherwise applicable, or (ii) if such treaty does not apply (i.e., because the PRC tax authorities may deem Stand Best to be a conduit not entitled to treaty benefits), may be subject to a 10% PRC withholding tax. Similarly, if Success Winner were treated as a “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law and Stand Best were treated as a “resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, then dividends Success Winner receives from Stand Best (assuming such dividends were considered sourced within the PRC) may be subject to a 10% PRC withholding tax. A similar situation may arise if China Ceramics were treated as a “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, and Success Winner were treated as a “resident enterprise” under the EIT Law. Any such taxes on dividends could materially reduce the amount of dividends, if any, we could pay to our shareholders.

 

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Finally, if China Ceramics is determined to be a “resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, this could result in a situation in which a 10% PRC tax is imposed on dividends China Ceramics pays to its shareholders that are not tax residents of the PRC, or “non-resident investors,” and that are enterprises but not individuals, and gains derived by them from transferring China Ceramics’ shares, if such income is considered PRC-sourced income by the relevant PRC tax authorities. In such event, China Ceramics may be required to withhold a 10% PRC tax on any dividends paid to such non-resident investors. Such non-resident investors also may be responsible for paying PRC tax at a rate of 10% on any gain derived by such investors from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ shares in certain circumstances. China Ceramics would not, however, have an obligation to withhold PRC tax with respect to such gain under the PRC tax laws. Also, if China Ceramics is determined to be a “resident enterprise,” its nonresident investors who are individuals may also be subject to potential PRC individual income tax at a rate of 20% with respect to dividends received from China Ceramics and/or gains derived by them from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ shares.

 

Moreover, the State Administration of Taxation, or “SAT,” released Circular Guoshuihan No. 698, or Circular 698, on December 10, 2009 that reinforces the taxation of certain equity transfers by non-resident investors through overseas holding vehicles. Circular 698 addresses indirect equity transfers as well as other issues. Circular 698 is retroactively effective from January 1, 2008. According to Circular 698, where a nonresident investor who indirectly holds an equity interest in a PRC resident enterprise through a non-PRC offshore holding company indirectly transfers an equity interest in the PRC resident enterprise by selling an equity interest in the offshore holding company, and the latter is located in a country or jurisdiction where the actual tax burden is less than 12.5% or where the offshore income of its residents is not taxable, the non-resident investor is required to provide the PRC tax authority in charge of that PRC resident enterprise with certain relevant information within 30 days of the execution of the equity transfer agreement. The tax authorities in charge will evaluate the offshore transaction for tax purposes. In the event that the tax authorities determine that such transfer is abusing forms of business organization and a reasonable commercial purpose for the offshore holding company other than the avoidance of PRC income tax liability is lacking, the PRC tax authorities will have the power to re-assess the nature of the equity transfer under the doctrine of substance over form. A reasonable commercial purpose may be established when the overall international (including U.S.) offshore structure is set up to comply with the requirements of supervising authorities of international (including U.S.) capital markets. If the SAT’s challenge of a transfer is successful, it may deny the existence of the offshore holding company that is used for tax planning purposes and subject the non-resident investor to PRC tax on the capital gain from such transfer. Since Circular 698 has a short history, there is uncertainty as to its application. We (or a nonresident investor) may become at risk of being taxed under Circular 698 and may be required to expend valuable resources to comply with Circular 698 or to establish that we (or such non-resident investor) should not be taxed under Circular 698, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations (or such non-resident investor’s investment in us).

 

In additional, the PRC resident enterprise may be required to provide necessary assistance to support the enforcement of Circular 698.

 

On February 3, 2015, the State Administration of Tax issued a Public Notice Regarding Certain Corporate Income Tax Matters on Indirect Transfer of Properties by Non-tax Resident Enterprise, or Public Notice 7. Public Notice 7 has introduced a new tax regime that is significantly different from that under Circular 698. Public Notice 7 extends its tax jurisdiction to not only indirect transfers set forth under Circular 698 but also transactions involving transfer of other taxable assets, through the offshore transfer of a foreign intermediate holding company. In addition, Public Notice 7 provides clearer criteria the Circular 698 on how to assess reasonable commercial purposes and has introduced safe harbors for internal group restructurings and the purchase and sale of equity through a public securities market. Public Notice 7 also brings challenges to both the foreign transferor and transferee (or other person who is obligated to pay for the transfer) of the taxable assets. Where a non-resident enterprise conducts an “indirect transfer” by transferring the taxable assets indirectly by disposing of the equity interests of an overseas holding company, the non-resident enterprise being the transferor, or the transferee, or the PRC entity which directly owned the taxable assets may report to the relevant tax authority such indirect transfer. Using a “substance over form” principle, the PRC tax authority may re-characterize such indirect transfer as a direct transfer of the equity interests in the PRC tax resident enterprise and other properties in China, As a result, gains derived from such indirect transfer may be subject on PRC enterprise income tax, and the transferee or other person who is obligated to pay for the transfer is obligated to withhold the applicable taxes, currently at a rate of up to 10% for the transfer of equity interests in a PRC resident enterprise. Both the transferor and the transferee may be subject to penalties under PRC tax laws if transferee fails to withhold the taxes and the transferor fails to pay the taxes.

 

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We face uncertainties with respect to the reporting and consequences of private equity financing transactions, share exchange or other transactions involving the transfer of shares in our company by investors that are non-PRC resident enterprises, or sale or purchase of shares in other non-PRC resident companies or other taxable assets by us. Our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group may be subject to filing obligations or being taxed if our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group are transferors in such transactions, and may be subject to withholding obligations if our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group are transferees in such transactions, under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7. For the transfer to shares in our company by investors that are non-PRC resident enterprises, our PRC subsidiaries may be requested to assist in the filing under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7. As a result, we may be required to expend valuable resources to comply with Circular 698 and Public Notice 7 to request the relevant transferors from whom we purchase taxable assets to comply with these circulars, or to establish that our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group should not be taxed under these circulars, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

The PRC tax authorities have the discretion under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7 to make adjustments to the taxable capital gains based on the difference between the fair value of the taxable assets transferred and the cost of investment. If the PRC tax authorities make adjustments to the taxable income of the transactions under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7, our income tax costs associated with such potential acquisitions will be increased, which may have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

  

If any PRC tax applies to a non-resident investor, the non-resident investor may be entitled to a reduced rate of PRC tax under an applicable income tax treaty and/or a deduction for such PRC tax against such investor’s domestic taxable income or a foreign tax credit in respect of such PRC tax against such investor’s domestic income tax liability (subject to applicable conditions and limitations). Shareholders should consult with their own tax advisors regarding the applicability of any such taxes, the effects of any applicable income tax treaties, and any available deductions or foreign tax credits. For a further discussion of these issues, see the section herein captioned “Taxation—PRC Taxation.”

 

Fluctuations in exchange rates could adversely affect our business and the value of our shares.

 

The value of our shares will be indirectly affected by the foreign exchange rate between U.S. dollars and the Renminbi and between those currencies and other currencies in which our revenue may be denominated. Because all of our earnings and cash assets are denominated in Renminbi, fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Renminbi will affect the relative purchasing power of these proceeds, as well as our financial results reported in U.S. dollar terms without giving effect to any underlying change in our business, financial condition or results of operations. Fluctuations in the exchange rate will also affect the relative value of any dividend we issue after this offering that will be exchanged into U.S. dollars and earnings from, and the value of, any U.S. dollar-denominated investments we make in the future.

 

Since July 2005, the Renminbi has not been pegged to the U.S. dollar. Although the People’s Bank of China regularly intervenes in the foreign exchange market to prevent significant short-term fluctuations in the exchange rate, the Renminbi may appreciate or depreciate significantly in value against the U.S. dollar in the medium to long term. Moreover, it is possible that in the future the Chinese authorities may lift restrictions on fluctuations in the Renminbi exchange rate and lessen intervention in the foreign exchange market. On March 17, 2014, the People’s Bank of China announced that the RMB exchange rate flexibility increased to 2% in order to proceed further with reform of the RMB exchange rate regime. These could result in a further and more significant fluctuation in the RMB’s value against the U.S. Dollar.

 

Very limited hedging transactions are available in China to reduce our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations. To date, we have not entered into any hedging transactions in an effort to reduce our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk. While we may enter into hedging transactions in the future, the availability and effectiveness of these transactions may be limited, and we may not be able to successfully hedge our exposure at all. In addition, our foreign currency exchange losses may be magnified by Chinese exchange control regulations that restrict our ability to convert Renminbi into foreign currencies.

 

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As the rights of shareholders under British Virgin Islands law differ from those under U.S. law, you may have fewer protections as a shareholder.

 

Our corporate affairs will be governed by our memorandum and articles of association, the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 (as amended) (the “BVI Act”), and the common law of the British Virgin Islands. The rights of shareholders to take legal action against our directors, actions by minority shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors under British Virgin Islands law are governed by the common law of the British Virgin Islands and by the BVI Act. The common law of the British Virgin Islands is derived in part from comparatively limited judicial precedent in the British Virgin Islands as well as from English common law, which is applied in the British Virgin Islands by virtue of the Common Law (Declaration of Application) Act. The rights of our shareholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our directors under British Virgin Islands law are not as clearly established as they would be under statutes or judicial precedents in some jurisdictions in the United States. In particular, the British Virgin Islands has a less developed body of securities laws as compared to the United States, and some states (such as Delaware) have more fully developed and judicially interpreted bodies of corporate law.

 

As a result of all of the above, holders of our shares may have more difficulty in protecting their interests through actions against our management, directors or major shareholders than they would as shareholders of a U.S. company.

 

British Virgin Islands companies may not be able to initiate shareholder derivative actions, thereby depriving shareholders of the ability to protect their interests.

 

British Virgin Islands companies may not have standing to initiate a shareholder derivative action in a federal court of the United States. The circumstances in which any such action may be brought, and the procedures and defenses that may be available in respect to any such action, may result in the rights of shareholders of a British Virgin Islands company being more limited than those of shareholders of a company organized in the United States. Accordingly, shareholders may have fewer alternatives available to them if they believe that corporate wrongdoing has occurred. The British Virgin Islands courts are also unlikely to recognize or enforce against us judgments of courts in the United States based on certain liability provisions of U.S. securities law; and to impose liabilities against us, in original actions brought in the British Virgin Islands, based on certain liability provisions of U.S. securities laws that are penal in nature. There is no statutory recognition in the British Virgin Islands of judgments obtained in the United States, although the courts of the British Virgin Islands will generally recognize and enforce the non-penal judgment of a foreign court of competent jurisdiction without retrial on the merits. This means that even if shareholders were to sue us successfully, they may not be able to recover anything to make up for the losses suffered.

 

The laws of the British Virgin Islands may provide comparatively limited protection for minority shareholders, so minority shareholders will have limited recourse if the shareholders are dissatisfied with the conduct of our affairs.

 

Under the laws of the British Virgin Islands, there is limited statutory law for the protection of minority shareholders in the form of the provisions of the BVI Act dealing with shareholder remedies. The principal protection under statutory law is that shareholders may bring an action to enforce the constitutional documents of the company, i.e. the memorandum and articles of association as shareholders are entitled to have the affairs of the company conducted in accordance with the BVI Act and the memorandum and articles of association of the company. A shareholder may also bring an action under statute if he feels that the affairs of the company have been or will be carried out in a manner that is unfairly prejudicial or discriminating or oppressive to him. There are also common law rights for the protection of shareholders that may be invoked, largely dependent on English common law, since the common law of the British Virgin Islands for business companies is limited.

 

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The market price for our shares has been and may continue to be volatile.

 

The market price for our shares has been and is likely to continue to be highly volatile and subject to wide fluctuations in response to factors including the following:

 

  · actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly operating results and changes or revisions of our expected results;

 

  · changes in financial estimates by securities research analysts;

 

  · changes in the economic performance or market valuations of companies specializing in the ceramics business in China;

 

  · announcements by us and our affiliates or our competitors of new products, acquisitions, strategic relationships, joint ventures or capital commitments;

 

  · addition or departure of our senior management and key personnel; and

 

  · fluctuations of exchange rates between the RMB and the U.S. dollar.

 

Volatility in the price of our shares may result in shareholder litigation that could in turn result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources.

 

The financial markets in the United States and other countries have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations, and market prices have been and continue to be extremely volatile. Volatility in the price of our shares may be caused by factors outside of our control and may be unrelated or disproportionate to our results of operations. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a public company’s securities, shareholders have frequently instituted securities class action litigation against that company. Litigation of this kind could result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources.

 

Although we paid semi-annual dividends in July 2013, January 2014, July 2014 and January 2015, we did not pay a dividend after January 2015 and do not currently plan to pay a dividend in the near future. Therefore, shareholders will benefit from an investment in our shares only if those shares appreciate in value

 

We paid dividends in July 2013, January 2014, July 2014 and January 2015. The declaration and payment of cash dividends is at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on factors our board of directors deems relevant, including among others, our results of operations, financial condition and cash requirements, business prospects, and the terms of our credit facilities, if any, and any other financing arrangements. We currently do not plan to pay a dividend in the near future. Therefore, the realization of a gain on shareholders’ investments will depend on the appreciation of the price of our shares, and there is no guarantee that our shares will appreciate in value.

  

We may not be able to pay any dividends on our shares in the future due to British Virgin Islands law.

 

Under British Virgin Islands law, we may only pay dividends to our shareholders if the value of our assets exceeds our liabilities and we are able to pay our debts as they become due. We cannot give any assurance that we will declare dividends of any amounts, at any rate or at all in the future. Future dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our board of directors, and will depend upon our results of operations, cash flows, financial condition, payment to us of cash dividends by our subsidiaries, capital needs, future prospects and other factors that our directors may deem appropriate.

 

We may need additional capital, and the sale of additional shares or equity or debt securities could result in additional dilution to our shareholders.

 

We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents and anticipated cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for the foreseeable future. We may, however, require additional cash resources due to changed business conditions or other future developments, including any investments or acquisitions we may decide to pursue. If these resources are insufficient to satisfy our cash requirements, we may seek to sell additional equity or debt securities or obtain one or more additional credit facilities. The sale of additional equity securities could result in additional dilution to our shareholders. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased debt service obligations and could result in operating and financing covenants that would restrict our operations. It is uncertain whether financing will be available in amounts or on terms acceptable to us, if at all.

 

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ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

 

  A. History and Development of the Company

 

Our principal PRC-based operating subsidiary, Hengda, was established on September 30, 1993 under the laws of the PRC. Hengda is a wholly foreign-owned enterprise in China.

 

Our other PRC-based operating subsidiary, Hengdali, was established on May 4, 2008 under the laws of the PRC. All of the equity interests in Hengdali are 100% owned by Hengda.

 

Stand Best was established on January 17, 2008 under the laws of Hong Kong. Stand Best acquired the entire shareholdings of Hengda on April 1, 2008 for consideration of RMB 58,980,000. As a result of this acquisition, Hengda became the wholly owned subsidiary of Stand Best.

 

Success Winner was established on May 29, 2009 under the laws of British Virgin Islands with Mr. Wong Kung Tok as its sole shareholder and sole director.

 

On June 30, 2009, pursuant to the capitalization agreement dated June 30, 2009, Success Winner was issued the 9,999 shares allotted by Stand Best as per the capitalization exercise of a shareholder’s loan of HK$67.9 million (RMB 58.9 million). On the same date, the shareholder of Stand Best, Mr. Wong Kung Tok transferred all his shareholdings in Stand Best to Success Winner. Therefore, Mr. Wong Kung Tok, from June 30, 2009 to November 20, 2009, indirectly owned 100% of Stand Best and in turn, 100% of Hengda.

 

CHAC was incorporated in Delaware on June 22, 2007 and was organized as a blank check company for the purpose of acquiring, through a stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, or controlling, through contractual arrangements, an operating business that had its principal operations in Asia, with a focus on potential acquisition targets in China.

 

Pursuant to the terms of a merger and stock purchase agreement dated August 19, 2009, on November 20, 2009, CHAC merged with and into China Ceramics, its wholly owned British Virgin Islands subsidiary, and immediately thereafter, and as part of the same integrated transaction, China Ceramics acquired all of the outstanding securities of Success Winner.

 

Prior to China Ceramics’ acquisition of Success Winner, neither CHAC nor China Ceramics had any operations.

  

On November 19, 2009, Hengda entered into a definitive acquisition agreement to acquire a new production facility in Gaoan, Jiangxi Province, PRC by purchasing 100% of the equity interests in Hengdali. The closing of the acquisition was subject to the Gaoan City Administration for Industry and Commerce transferring the registration and business license of Hengdali from Hengdali’s former shareholders to Hengda. The transfer occurred on January 8, 2010. Hengda appointed an executive officer to take control over Hengdali’s operating and financing activities on the same day. In total, Hengda assumed loans of RMB 60.0 million and paid cash consideration of RMB 185.5 million for the acquisition.

 

On September 17, 2013, Fujian Province Hengdali Building Materials Co., Ltd. (“Fujian Hengdali”) was incorporated in Pingtan, Fujian Province, and is 100% owned by Hengda. Fujian Hengdali’s approved scope of business includes sales of building materials and interior and exterior decoration materials. Fujian Hengdali had no operations since the incorporation date, and in August 2017, the Company disposed Fujian Hengdali for RMB0 to a third-party.

 

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On September 22, 2017, Success Winner incorporated a 100% owned subsidiary Vast Elite Limited (“Vast Elite”) in Hong Kong with an initial registered capital of HKD1. Vast Elite is engaged in the trading of building materials, but had no operations during the year ended December 31, 2018. 

 

The total maximum annual production capacity from our two facilities was 72 million square meters of ceramic tiles as of December 31, 2014. However, our annual production capacity has been effectively reduced from 72 million square meters of ceramic tiles to 66 million square meters of ceramic tiles due to an eight-year contract to lease out one of the production lines from our Hengdali facility that we entered into in March 2016. Our annual production capacity was further reduced to 56.5 million square meters of ceramic tiles due to our having retired two old furnaces at the Hengda facility in July of 2018.

 

 

 

China Ceramics’ History

 

China Ceramics is a British Virgin Islands limited liability company whose predecessor, CHAC, incorporated in Delaware on June 22, 2007, was organized as a blank check company for the purpose of acquiring, through a stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, or controlling, through contractual arrangements, an operating business, that has its principal operations in Asia.

 

Pre-IPO Private Placement

 

On November 21, 2007, CHAC completed a private placement of 2,750,000 warrants to Paul K. Kelly, James D. Dunning, Jr., Alan G. Hassenfeld, Gregory E. Smith, Xiao Feng, Cheng Yan Davis, Soapakij (Chris) Cheavranant and Ruby Bin Kao, collectively referred to as the founding shareholders, as a result of which CHAC received net proceeds of $2,750,000.

 

The Initial Public Offering

 

On November 21, 2007, CHAC consummated its initial public offering of 12,000,000 units. On December 14, 2007, the underwriters of CHAC’s initial public offering exercised their over-allotment option for an offering of 800,000 units. Each unit in the offering consisted of one share and one share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitled the holder to purchase from China Ceramics one share in China Ceramics at an exercise price of $7.50. CHAC’s shares and warrants started trading separately as of December 17, 2007.

 

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The Business Combination

 

Pursuant to the terms of a merger and stock purchase agreement dated August 19, 2009, on November 20, 2009, CHAC merged with and into China Ceramics, its wholly owned British Virgin Islands subsidiary, and, immediately thereafter, and as part of the same integrated transaction, China Ceramics acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Success Winner held by its former shareholder in exchange for $10.00 and 5,743,320 shares of China Ceramics shares. In addition, 8,185,763 shares of the China Ceramics shares were placed in escrow (the “Contingent Shares”) to be released to the seller in the event certain earnings and stock price thresholds were achieved. Of the Contingent Shares, 5,185,763 Contingent Shares were released based on our achieving growth in either net earnings before tax or net earnings after tax. 3,000,000 Contingent Shares that were eligible to be released if China Ceramics shares closed at or above certain share price targets for any twenty trading days within a thirty trading day period prior to April 30, 2012 were canceled because we did not meet applicable price targets.

 

Concurrent with the Business Combination, we redeemed and purchased an aggregate of 11,193,149 of our shares from our public stockholders for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $109.6 million (in transactions intended to assure the successful completion of the Business Combination). Such shares were voted in favor of the Business Combination and the other related proposals.

 

On November 16, 2012 all of our share purchase warrants expired and ceased to trade.

 

China Ceramics’ registered office is c/o Harneys Corporate Services Limited of Craigmuir Chambers, P.O. Box 71, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

 

February 2016 Public Offering

 

On February 4, 2016, we announced the pricing of public offering of our shares (and common stock equivalents) with total gross proceeds of approximately $900,000 (the “Offering”). The net proceeds to the Company from this offering, before deducting the placement agent’s fees and expenses, were approximately $785,000.

 

In connection with the Offering, the Company issued 1,428,571 shares at the price of $0.63 per share, with each share coupled with a Class A Warrant (1,428,571 Class A Warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one share and a Class B Warrant (1,428,571 Class B Warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one share. The shares, the Class A Warrants and the Class B Warrants were sold as units, but were issued separately. The Class A Warrants have an exercise price of $0.63 per share and the Class B Warrants have an exercise price of $0.78 per share. The Class A Warrants are exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the six-month anniversary of the date of issuance. The Class B Warrants are exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the five-year anniversary of the date of issuance.

 

Dawson James Securities, Inc. acted as the Company’s exclusive placement agent, on a best efforts basis, in connection with the Offering. Pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Placement Agency Agreement by and between the Company and the Placement Agent, dated as of February 3, 2016 (the “PAA”), the Company paid the Placement Agent a cash placement fee equal to 8% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, or $71,999, plus a non-accountable expense allowance equal to $25,000. The Placement Agent also received five-year warrants (the “Compensation Warrants”) to purchase up to a number of shares equal to 8% of the aggregate number of shares sold in the Offering, or 114,286 shares. The Compensation Warrants have substantially the same terms as the Class B Warrants in the Offering, except that such Compensation Warrants have an exercise price of $0.78 (125% of the public offering price per share) and terminate on the five year anniversary of the effective date of this offering.

 

June 2016 Reverse Stock Split

 

Effective as of June 28, 2016, the Company implemented a one-for-eight reverse stock split of its ordinary shares. The new CUSIP number for the Company's common stock following the reverse split is G2113X134. The reverse stock split reduced the number of outstanding ordinary shares of the Company from approximately 21.9 million shares to approximately 2.7 million shares and the par value per share will increase from $0.001 to $0.008. In lieu of issuing fractional shares, the Company rounded fractions of shares down to the nearest whole share. All outstanding stock options, warrants and other rights to purchase the Company's ordinary shares was adjusted proportionately as a result of the reverse stock split. The number of total authorized ordinary shares of the Company was not changed as a result of the reverse split.

 

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April 2017 Convertible Note Offering

 

On April 3, 2017, we completed a registered offering of $631,579 principal amount of our 5% original issue discount convertible promissory note due January 3, 2018 (the “Note”) for the purchase price of $600,000 (the “Offering”). The net proceeds to the Company from this Offering were approximately $530,000 to be used for general corporate and working capital purposes. The Offering also included up to 560,000 shares issuable upon conversion of the Note.

 

The Note was sold pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement and carried interest at a rate of 5% per year, maturing on the 9-month anniversary of its issuance (the “Maturity Date”) unless earlier converted into our common shares. The amounts due under the Note is payable in weekly payments in the amount of 1/10th of the total principal of the Note, and together with interest outstanding thereon, commencing on the seventh month following the original issue date of the Note. The Company may pay weekly amortization payments under the Note in cash or shares. If the Company elects to make cash payments, such weekly payments must be made in the amounts equal to the then outstanding principal of the Note and accrued interest, multiplied by 115%. If the Company elects to make such weekly payments in shares, it must meet certain equity conditions, as described in this prospectus. The Note is our general unsecured obligation and will rank equally in right of payment with all of our future unsecured indebtedness, senior in right of payment to any of our future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated to the Note, effectively junior in right of payment to any of our secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness, and structurally junior to all indebtedness and other liabilities of our current or future subsidiaries. The Note may be prepaid by the Company upon advance written notice by making a cash payment in an amount equal to the sum of the then outstanding principal amount of the Note and any accrued and unpaid interest multiplied by 105% if the prepayment takes place within 60 days of the closing, or by 115% if the prepayment takes place at any time after the 60-day period. At its option, the holder of the Note may convert the Note into the right to acquire shares of the Company at any time prior to the Maturity Date at the conversion price which is equal to 85% of the volume weighed average price (VWAP) per share over the five (5) trading day period prior to each conversion of the Note, subject to $1.00 per share floor price and other conversion limitations to ensure compliance with the Nasdaq Stock Exchange and other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The conversion price of the Note will be subject to adjustment in the event of any stock split, stock dividends, subsequent equity sales, subsequent rights offerings, or fundamental transaction. The Company’s is not required to issue more than 560,000 shares pursuant to amortization or conversion provisions of the Note, unless it obtains shareholder approval of any additional issuances in compliance with the Nasdaq continued listing requirements.

 

A holder will not have the right to convert any portion of a Note, and we will not have the option to pay any weekly installment payment in shares to such holder, if the holder, together with its affiliates, would beneficially own in excess of 4.99% of the number of shares of our shares outstanding immediately after giving effect to such conversion or payment, as applicable, as such percentage ownership is determined in accordance with the terms of the Note. Any holder may increase or decrease such percentage to any other percentage upon written notice to us, provided that in no event shall such percentage be increased above 9.99%, and provided further that any increase of such percentage will not be effective until 61 days after such holder provides us notice of such increase. The Note contains standard and customary events of default, including, but not limited to, failure to provide shares upon conversion of the Note, failure to make payments when due under the Note, and bankruptcy or insolvency of the Company. The Note will become immediately due and payable upon the occurrence of an Event of Default specified in the Note, and interest will accrue at the rate of 18% annually upon the occurrence of an Event of Default.

 

The Offering was made pursuant to an effective “shelf” registration statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-206516), as amended, which became effective on October 15, 2015, and a related prospectus supplement dated April 3, 2017 in connection with the Offering.

 

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2017 Stock Compensation 

 

From August to December 2017, the Company issued aggregate of 27,394 shares to its Chief Financial Officer  as stock compensation expense. The fair value of 27,394 shares was RMB294,000.

 

Private Placement of Unregistered Equity Securities of the Company

 

On July 18, 2017, the Company completed a USD$861,000 private placement of its ordinary shares pursuant to subscription agreements (the “Subscription Agreements”) with certain accredited investors (the “Offering”) at the price of $1.36 per share, the closing price of the Company’s securities on July 17, 2017. The Company agreed to register the shares sold in the Offering for resale no later than 270 days after the closing of the Offering. All respective purchasers in the Offering were “accredited investors” (as such term is defined in Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act ), and the Company sold the securities in the Offering in reliance upon an exemption from registration contained in Section 4(2) and Rule 506 under the Securities Act. There were no discounts or brokerage fees associated with this Offering. The net proceeds of the Offering were used for working capital and general corporate purpose. On April 16, 2018, the Company filed a registration statement on Form F-3 to register its shares sold in the Offering for resale.

 

Registered Direct Offering of the Company’s Equity Securities

 

On April 19, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Agreement”) with certain individual investors relating to a registered direct offering, issuance and sale (the “Offering”) of an aggregate of 770,299 of its shares (the “Shares”), at a purchase price of $1.56 per share, the closing price of the Company’s equity securities as reported on Nasdaq on the same date. The Shares were offered pursuant to the Company’s previously filed and effective Registration Statement on Form F-3 that was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 21, 2015, subsequently amended, and declared effective October 15, 2015 (File No. 333-206516). The Company filed a prospectus supplement related to the Offering dated April 19, 2018. The gross proceeds to the Company from the Offering, before deducting the Company’s estimated offering expenses, were approximately $1.2 million. The Offering closed on April 23, 2018. Proceeds from the Offering will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes. There were no discounts or brokerage fees associated with this Offering.

 

November 2018 Registered Offering of the Company’s Securities

 

On November 29, 2018, the Company announced the pricing of public offering of its common shares (and common stock warrants) with total gross proceeds of approximately $1.27 million (the “Offering”). The net proceeds to the Company from this offering, after deducting the placement agent’s fees and expenses, are expected to be approximately $1.13 million. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund inventory, distribution expenses, vendor obligations outside of the PRC, as well as for general corporate and working capital purposes. In connection with the Offering, the Company issued 1,000,000 common shares at the price of $1.27 per share, with each common share coupled with a warrant (500,000 warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one common share. The common shares and the warrants were sold as units, but are immediately separable and will be issued separately. The warrants will have an exercise price of $1.27 per share. The warrants will be exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the five-year anniversary of the date of issuance. In connection with the Offering, the Company executed a Placement Agency Agreement (the “PAA”). Dawson James Securities, Inc. acted as the Company’s exclusive placement agent, on a best efforts basis, in connection with the Offering. Pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Placement Agency Agreement by and between the Company and the Placement Agent, dated as of November 30, 2018 (the “PAA”), the Company will pay the Placement Agent a cash placement fee equal to 8% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, or $101,600 (assuming the maximum offering is completed), plus road show, diligence, legal and other expenses of the Placement Agent not to exceed $45,000. The Placement Agent will also receive five-year warrants (the “Compensation Warrants”) to purchase up to a number of common shares equal to 5% of the aggregate number of common shares sold in the Offering, or 50,000 common shares (assuming the maximum offering is completed), which such Compensation Warrants will have substantially the same terms as the warrants sold in the Offering, except that such Compensation Warrants will have an exercise price of $1.5875 per share or 125% of the public offering price and will terminate on the five year anniversary of the effective date of this offering. This offering is being made pursuant to an effective “shelf” registration statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-228182), as amended, which became effective on November 19, 2018, and a related prospectus supplement dated November 30, 2018 in connection with the Offering.

 

2018 Stock Compensation 

 

From January to December 31, 2018, the Company issued aggregate of 56,919 shares to its Chief Financial Officer as stock compensation expense. The fair value of 56,919 shares was RMB619,000.

 

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  B. Business Overview

 

Overview

 

We are a leading Chinese manufacturer of ceramic tiles used for exterior siding and for interior flooring and design in residential and commercial buildings. The ceramic tiles, sold under the “HD” or “Hengda,” “HDL” or “Hengdeli”, “Pottery Capital of Tang Dynasty”, “TOERTO” and ”WULIQIAO” brands are available in over two thousand styles, colors and size combinations. Currently, we have five principal product categories: (i) porcelain tiles, (ii) glazed tiles, (iii) glazed porcelain tiles, (iv) rustic tiles, and (v) polished glazed tiles. Porcelain tiles are our best-selling products, accounting for 70.4% of our total revenue in 2018.

 

Ceramic tiles are widely used in the PRC as a construction material for residential and commercial buildings. Ceramic tiles are used for flooring, interior walls for decorative purposes and on exterior siding due to their resistance to temperature, extreme environments, erosion, abrasion and discoloration for extended periods of time. Citigroup Global Markets reports that the PRC government has actively promoted the construction of affordable housing by ensuring that 77% of the new land made available was allocated to those in the low-income bracket, especially in Tier II and III cities. During the 11th National People’s Congress (NPC) relating to the central government’s draft 12th Five Year Plan (2011 - 2015), Premier Wen Jiabao pledged that the government will curb excessive housing price growth and provide enough affordable houses for needy residents. Premier Wen stated that, from 2011 to 2015, the country aims to build 36 million units of affordable housing covering 20 percent of the country’s households. In addition, the government recently released a statement stating that the greatest potential for expanding domestic demand and sustaining economic growth lies in urbanization. Since urbanization leads to new property development and construction, this could positively impact the Company’s business.

 

Our manufacturing facilities operated by Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd. are located in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, and our manufacturing facilities operated by Jiangxi Hengdali Ceramic Materials Co., Ltd. are located in Gaoan, Jiangxi Province. Combined, these facilities currently provide an aggregate annual maximum production capacity of approximately 72 million square meters. However, our annual production capacity has been effectively reduced from 72 million square meters of ceramic tiles to 66 million square meters of ceramic tiles due to an eight-year contract to lease out one of the production lines from our Hengdali facility that we entered into in March 2016. due to current economic conditions, we are currently utilizing production facilities capable of producing 56.5 million square meters. We currently have twelve production lines, three of which were in production as of the end of fiscal 2018, with each production line optimized to manufacture specific size ranges to maximize efficiency and output.

 

We primarily sell our products through an exclusive distributor network or directly to property developers. We have long-term relationships with our customers; most of our top ten customers in 2018 have been purchasing from us for over ten years. We have been in discussions with some large property developers in China to be their exclusive or primary provider of ceramic tiles and, although no arrangements or agreements have been entered into, we expect to enter into arrangements of that type in the foreseeable future.

 

We focus our research and development efforts on developing innovative and environmentally-friendly products. We own eighteen utility model patents. Our stringent tile management and marketing efforts have created a strong business reputation and high brand awareness as demonstrated by us receiving the “Chinese Well-Known Trademark” award from the Intermediate People’s Court of Xiangtan City and “Asia’s 500 Most Influential Brands 2014” award from the World Brand Laboratory.

 

Our Industry

 

We operate in the Chinese ceramic tile industry which is fragmented, highly competitive and closely tied to the PRC economy. Although there is little industry data available, management believes from its knowledge of other manufactures that it is one of the largest PRC-based manufacturers of ceramic tiles.

 

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In 2018, China’s gross domestic product (GDP) totaled approximately $13.4 trillion and was the world’s second largest economy after the United States. As China’s GDP grew by 6.6%, we believe that construction and real estate development will continue to be a key driver behind China’s GDP growth with property investment and related industries constituting a significant percentage of its GDP. Demand for ceramic tile product depends upon and directly correlates to activity in the construction and real estate development industries. The ceramic tile industry’s two primary markets in the PRC are residential construction applications and commercial construction applications.

 

We believe that China’s real estate sector is likely to be relatively stable over the long-term, although speculative activities have prompted government policies to restrict construction with the intent to rein in rising prices. Further, tighter policy in the sector has occurred as some banks have increased their mortgage lending rates and down payment requirements. However, the government has issued statements stating that the greatest potential for expanding domestic demand and sustaining economic growth lies in urbanization. Since urbanization leads to new property development and construction, this could positively impact our business.

 

We believe that the real estate and the construction and building materials sectors continue to be vital to sustaining China’s economy growth. The Chinese Government is intent upon curbing real estate speculation and stabilizing prices by pronouncing that real estate is for habitation versus speculation and by promoting affordable housing and inexpensive rental housing. However, the Chinese government has also taken various actions to stimulate real estate development and home purchases which include interest rate cuts, lowering the reserve requirement ratio for banks, lowering first home down payment ratios and cutting the minimum capital ratio for fixed asset investments to aid property developers.

 

Although the Chinese Government’s measures have helped to sustain the real estate sector, there is an oversupply of building material companies which has exacerbated occasional slowdowns in construction activity.

 

Commencing in the fourth quarter of 2012, we began experiencing challenging market conditions in China’s real estate and construction markets which resulted in a marked decrease of our sales volume of our ceramic tile products. Beginning in December 2012, we began reducing the selling price of our ceramic tile products to be competitive in the market and to maintain market share. For fiscal 2013, our full year revenue was down 35.4% as compared to fiscal 2012 full year revenue, resulting from a 24.8% decrease in the sales volume of our ceramic tiles and a 14.1% decline in our average selling price. In fiscal 2014, we began emerging from the sector downturn that occurred in late 2012 due to challenging macroeconomic conditions. For fiscal 2014, our full year revenue increased 11.2% as compared to fiscal 2013 resulting from a 1.2% increase in the sales volume of our ceramic tiles and a 9.7% increase in our average selling price. However, for fiscal 2015, our full year revenue decreased by 2.0% as compared to fiscal 2014 resulting from a 5.8% decrease in the sales volume of our ceramic tiles somewhat offset by a 4.2% increase in our average selling price. The decrease in revenue in fiscal 2015 as compared to fiscal 2014 was primarily due to a substantial decline in business activity in the fourth quarter of 2015 as compared to the fourth quarter of 2014. The Company’s sales volume of 6.7 million square meters represented a 13.0% reduction in sales volume from the 7.7 million square meters recorded in the fourth quarter of 2014. The average selling price in the fourth quarter of 2015 rose 0.3% to 31.2 per square meter of ceramic tile as compared to the fourth quarter of 2014 as we had been able to retain our pricing power. However, business conditions became very challenging since the beginning of 2016. For fiscal 2016, our full year revenue decreased by 22.0% as compared to fiscal 2015 resulting from a 12.9% decrease in the sales volume of our ceramic tiles and an 11.5% decrease in our average selling price. The decrease in revenue in fiscal 2016 as compared to fiscal 2015 was primarily due to continued challenging market conditions and an overall decline in business activity. Consequently, beginning on July 1, 2016, we reduced the selling price of certain of our slow-moving products by 10% with the goal to turn some of this inventory into cash. Beginning on October 1, 2016, in order to generate sales and move inventory, we instituted a 20% reduction of our slow-moving products. This further price reduction led to a 35% increase in our sales volume to 9.00 million square meters in the fourth quarter of 2016 compared to 6.68 million square meters for the same period of 2015. However, the average selling price in the fourth quarter of 2016 fell 28.2% to RMB 22.4 per square meter of ceramic tile as compared to the fourth quarter of 2015 due to the price discounting instituted at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Business conditions continued to be challenging in fiscal 2017 as we experienced a year-over-year 6.5% decrease to RMB 25.8 in our average selling price as compared to RMB 27.6 for fiscal 2016. However, due to competitive pricing and the strong sales of our porcelain ceramic tiles, we were able to generate a 10.6% increase in sales volume to 30.8 million square meters of ceramic tiles in 2017 from 28.8 million square meters of ceramic tiles for fiscal 2016. In fiscal 2018, we experienced difficult market conditions, especially in the second half of the year, which resulted in a 44.6% decline in sales volume as compared to fiscal 2017. In an effort to bolster sales, in July of 2018, we decreased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 10%, but certain core products maintained their pricing levels which resulted in a 9.4% increase to RMB 28.2 in our average selling price as compared to RMB 25.8 for fiscal 2017.

 

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Key Factors Affecting the Chinese Ceramic Tile Industry

 

The overall performance of the ceramic tile industry is influenced by consumer confidence, spending for durable goods, interest rates, turnover in housing, the condition of the residential and commercial construction industries and the overall strength of the economy and the recent restriction policy on the purchase of property. Demand for our ceramic tile products in the PRC heavily depends on the following economic factors and government policies designed to drive growth in the construction and real estate development sectors of the PRC economy.

 

Urbanization

 

Over the last twenty years, China has experienced rapid urbanization due to the increasingly limited capacity of rural areas to provide adequate economic support for a large agrarian population, the increasing disparity in disposable incomes between rural and urban dwellers and the easing of restrictions which historically limited rural to urban migration from rural areas to towns and cities. The development of an industrial base and service sector in urban areas has also driven large labor pools with a broad range of skills to urban areas. It is estimated that China’s urban population will expand from 572 million in 2005 to 926 million in 2025 and hit the one billion mark by 2030. In 20 years, China’s cities will have added 350 million people to its urban population — more than the entire population of the United States today. As a result of the urbanization trend and the associated need to expand an underdeveloped infrastructure to accommodate and house such growth, we believe that commercial and residential construction will expand measurably in future years, thereby creating additional demand for our products.

 

Potential of Tier II and III cities

 

Much of the growth in China’s GDP is being driven by economic activity in Tier II and Tier III cities, such as Chengdu, Chongqing, and Tianjin, which commonly have populations that exceed 10 million individuals who often live in dwellings that do not meet modern standards. According to Jones Lang LaSalle, Tier I cities will account for only 10% of China’s commercial real estate activities by 2020, which highlights the attractive commercial development opportunities in Tier II and III cities. The economic impact of this trend is being felt across China’s Tier II and Tier III cities as the upswing in new residential and commercial construction projects and renovations is generating new demand for construction materials.

 

Importance of distributors

 

The majority of exterior ceramic tile manufacturers do not have sufficient resources to provide their own sales coverage nationwide and rely heavily on local distributors with roughly 83% of total sales pushed through such channels. As competition has intensified, many manufacturers have started to bid directly to real estate developers for large construction projects. Direct sales represented 4%, 6% and 11% of total sales in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and market participants expect this share will continue to increase, placing a premium on a manufacturer’s internal sales force while requiring product lines with greater flexibility to meet direct customer demands.

 

Industry and Product Offerings

 

There are two product segments within the ceramic tile industry: exterior and interior.

 

Exterior ceramic tiles

 

Exterior ceramic tile is mainly used as a decorative and protective component on building exteriors. Unlike other types of tiles, exterior ceramic tile must endure harsh environmental conditions and typically is manufactured to be water/dirt-resistant, non-corrosive and energy efficient. In addition, exterior ceramic tiles have other demands that interior ceramic tiles do not always have, including mandatory expansion joints, moisture considerations and thermal demands. Depending on the ultimate use of the ceramic tile and customer preferences, exterior ceramic tiles are often manufactured with customized glazing, coloring and other design and aesthetic features.

 

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Interior ceramic tiles

 

Interior ceramic tiles are mainly used for decorative purposes on walls and floors in kitchens and bathrooms. Interior ceramic tiles are differentiated by design, style and perceived quality. Within China, interior ceramic tiles are typically purchased by residential owners or renovation contractors rather than property developers.

 

The manufacturing process is similar for both segments, however the distribution channels are different. Interior ceramic tiles are sold through retail stores and directly to contractors or residential owners. Exterior ceramic tiles are sold through distributors or directly to large property developers. Due to the higher cost distribution chain and typically smaller order sizes, profit margins are generally less within the interior ceramic tile industry.

 

Future Product Trends

 

As the ceramic tile industry in the PRC matures, builders are demanding construction materials that reduce building weight, making it possible to use light building structures and accelerate the speed of construction. Government policies meant to address energy efficiency are promoting the use of innovative wall materials, particularly those performing well in heat preservation and insulation and that are light in weight, and manufactured utilizing waste materials, less energy and fewer raw materials. In an effort to differentiate their products and meet government policies, ceramic tile manufacturers are increasingly focusing on research and development efforts.

 

China Ceramics’ Products

 

Currently, all of our products are exterior wall ceramic tiles.  We produce five types of ceramic tiles:

 

Porcelain tiles :  Porcelain tiles are fired at extreme temperatures and are therefore stronger and harder than other types of ceramic tiles. The material and the color is the same throughout and porcelain tiles are extremely durable. Although porcelain tiles have a matte surface, they absorb less water than other ceramic tiles, and as such, they are a superior solution for exterior tiling where there is frequent exposure to moisture.

 

Glazed tiles :  Glazed tiles have a glossy finish and color patterns may be added to the exterior surface of the tile. The glaze does not go beyond the exterior surface of the tile and the interior color will show if the tile is chipped. Although glazed tiles are less water-resistant than matte porcelain tiles, they are easier to clean due to their glossy surface.

 

Glazed porcelain tiles :  Glazed porcelain tiles combine the advantages of porcelain tiles and glazed tiles, thus enabling the tiles to have a porcelain body with a stain-proof and glossy finish.

 

Rustic tiles :  Rustic tiles have greater versatility in their design as textures and colors can be added to their exterior surfaces and therefore can be used in more decorative situations. In addition to being used on exterior walls, rustic tiles are also used for interior walls and flooring.

 

Polished glazed tiles: Ceramic tiles can be manufactured in differing sizes according to customer specifications, with the largest sized tiles measuring 800 mm by 800 mm.

 

We can produce over 2,000 different combinations of products, colors, textures and sizes to meet the various demands of our customers.

 

In fiscal 2015, we constructed a new production line to manufacture glazed brick ceramic tiles in our Hengdali facility, which we believe will be an attractive addition to our current product portfolio. This new product is engineered to be competitively-priced and a highly effective roofing solution for both high rise apartment buildings and housing projects, and it complements our existing ceramic tile building siding products. In fiscal 2018, there was no change under product portfolio.

 

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Our Competitive Strengths

 

We believe the following competitive strengths will enable us to take advantage of the rapid growth of the ceramic tile industry in China:

 

Brand Recognition

 

We believe that the “Hengda,” “HD,” “Hengdeli,” “HDL,”, “Pottery Capital of Tang Dynasty”, “TOERTO” and “WULIQIAO” brands are well recognized and highly regarded in markets where our products are sold. Before April 13, 2011, WULIQIAO was a trademark owned by Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. Hengda signed a Trademark Licensing Contract with Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. and was licensed the exclusive right to use WULIQIAO during the term of that trademark, which expires on January 27, 2020. On April 13, 2011, WULIQIAO was transferred to Hengdali. In 2005, the brands “Hengda” and “HD” were each certified as a Fujian Well-Known Trademark by the Fujian Well-Known Trademark Award Commission and recognized as a “Chinese Well-known Trademark” in 2005 by the Intermediate People’s Court of Xiangtan City. Since 2012, we have been recognized with the “Asia’s 500 Most Influential Brands” award from the World Brand Laboratory. Our products are selected for inclusion in strategic and high-profile projects such as the 16th Asian Games, the 11th National Chinese Games Village and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

 

Focus on Tier II and Tier III Cities

 

Because of recent efforts by the PRC government to tighten monetary policy and constrain real estate prices in the “Tier-I” cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, we believe the outlook for our business has improved, given our concentration in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. Approximately 19% of our revenue in the year ended December 31, 2018 was from sales of our products for use in projects in Tier-I cities, and we expect any weakness in the Tier-I cities to be offset by continued demand growth in the Tier-II and Tier-III cities, driven by urbanization trends as well as by the PRC government’s commitment to low-income housing.

 

Long-Term Sales Relationships

 

We have established an extensive distributor network and long term customer relationships, where most of Hengda’s top ten customers in 2018 have been purchasing from us for over 10 years each.

 

Experienced Management Team

 

Our experienced, professional and dedicated management team brings a wealth of knowledge to our day-to-day operations and provides us with strategic direction. Our Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and founder, Huang Jia Dong, has more than 20 years of experience in the ceramics industry and is Vice-Chairman of the Fujian Province Ceramic Industry Association. The other members of the senior management team have many years of experience in the ceramic industry.

 

Modern, environmentally friendly, and efficient manufacturing capabilities

 

We have modern manufacturing facilities. Our Hengda facility received an ISO 9001:2000 accreditation, an international standard that acknowledged our quality control process. Our employees are required to undergo internal training regarding quality control policies, targets and procedures, as well as production and processing techniques.

 

We upgraded our Hengda production lines to recover and/or reuse waste water, waste dust, exhaust and kiln after-heat in 2007, which reduced our energy usage and energy costs. Our new Hengdali production lines were also built using new equipment that incorporates recovery methods for recycling waste water, waste dust, exhaust and kiln after-heat that operate at a higher efficiency rate. We received an Energy Conservation Advance Enterprise Award in 2008 from the Jinjiang City Government.

 

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Focus on Research and Development

 

We have devoted substantial resources to establishing research and development capabilities in an effort to improve our products and diversify our product mix. Our R&D team has developed over 2,000 types of different product combinations. As of the date of this Annual Report, we own eighteen utility model patents. “Utility model patents” means any new technical solution relating to the shape, the structure, or their combination, of a product, which is fit for practical use. In addition, we were awarded a “High-tech Enterprise Certificate” in 2007 from Fujian Provincial Department of Science and Technology, affirming our innovations in the industry. As of December 31, 2018, our research and development team includes 16 employees and focuses on new products as well as developing energy and resource efficient production methods.

 

Strategic Location within the PRC

 

We are located in Jinjiang and Gaoan. The Jinjiang region is an established ceramic and construction material hub in the PRC, and the Gaoan region is a developing ceramic production area supported by the local government. Both of these areas are located near the raw materials required to produce ceramic tiles. As distributors and direct customers come to these areas to procure construction materials for sale, construction projects or export, these locations provide us a regular flow of customers and demand. These centralized industry locations allow us to respond quickly to customer demands and react rapidly to emerging market trends. The proximity and ease of access to major ports and transportation infrastructure in both of these regions enables us to decrease transportation and logistics costs.

 

Our Growth Strategy

 

We intend to further strengthen our position as a leading manufacturer of ceramic tiles in China by implementing the following strategies:

 

Broadening Our Distribution Network

 

We sell our products mainly to distributors located in major Tier-I cities such as Shanghai and Beijing and Tier-II cities such as Tianjin, Wuhan, Chengdu and Shenyang. We plan to establish and/or increase our presence in Tier-II and Tier-III cities in provinces such as Zhejiang, Anhui, Heilongjiang, Guizhou, Henan, Hebei, Shandong, Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Yunnan.

 

We believe that our new Hengdali production facility in Gaoan will better position us to expand into new markets and reach additional end customers as transportation and logistical costs of delivering products to these areas will be reduced.

 

Evaluating Opportunities to Increase Exports

 

Currently, we export approximately 6.9% of our products through PRC trading companies. We intend to increase the exported volume of our products with additional PRC trading companies and by promoting our products in regional and international trade shows with a focus on direct selling efforts to property developers in the PRC.

 

Pursuing Selective Acquisition Opportunities

 

We will explore business combinations that broaden our product line, expand our customer base and allow us to penetrate new geographic regions. Our management believes that it has sufficient expertise to find and acquire suitable ceramic production facilities and/or companies to increase our scale and geographic diversification within the PRC. Our management intends to only pursue acquisitions where it believes that we will be able to continue to provide cost competitive, high quality ceramic tiles to our customers.

 

Further Enhancing Our Brand Awareness

 

We plan to enhance awareness of the “Hengda” or “HD,” “HDL” or “Hengdeli,” “TOERTO” and “WULIQIAO” brands in the PRC exterior ceramic tile industry. Hengda produces our “Hengda” or “HD” brands, which are marketed toward the high-end market. Hengdali produces our “HDL” or “Hengdeli” brands, which are marketed to the mid-level market, “TOERTO” brand, which is a specialized brand for our large-sized rustic tiles and “WULIQIAO” brand, which is a specialized brand for oriental pattern large-sized rustic tiles. WULIQIAO is a trademark owned by Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. Hengda signed a Trademark Licensing Contract with Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. and has been licensed the exclusive right to use WULIQIAO during the term of that trademark. Our branding strategy is to reach a larger customer base with a wide spectrum of product offerings. We plan on strengthening our brands by marketing our products to property developers and the construction industry, partnering with local distributors, attending national fairs and promoting our products through inclusion in strategic high-profile projects.

 

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Developing Advanced Products That Meet Evolving Building Construction Requirements

 

We strive to develop new products that address market demand for advanced building materials that meet or exceed evolving government policies for energy efficiency. Our research and development efforts are focused on developing tiles which:

 

  · Reduce raw materials and energy consumption in the production process;

 

  · Have a density less than half of other tiles;

 

  · Reduce load bearing stress on exterior walls of buildings and tile shedding;

 

  · Recycle our by-products and limit waste output in our production process;

 

  · Utilize a honeycomb structure which optimizes insulation performance for new products, such as our light-weight product lines;

 

  · Have higher standards for water resistance; and

 

  · Are easier to attach to exterior walls.

 

We will continue to invest in research and development to maintain our competitive position in the industry.

 

Production Process and Facilities

 

A typical production line for ceramic tiles is comprised of preparation equipment (which typically includes a miller and a spray dryer), a press (which is used for shaping raw ceramic material), a glazing line (used to supply glazed materials to the pressed tiles), a kiln (used to harden the soft mixture of clay and minerals into a hard ceramic body by subjecting the mixture to high temperature) and packaging.

 

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The following chart sets out the major steps involved in the production process:

 

 

The procedures involved in the production of ceramic tiles are summarized below:

 

  (i) Inspecting

 

Raw materials for ceramic products consist mainly of clay (comprised of inorganic materials such as kaolin, flint and feldspar) obtained mostly from areas adjacent to our facilities, such as Dehua county of Quanzhou city and the Fujian province. Raw materials are inspected by quality control staff upon receipt. Batch calculations that take into consideration both physical properties and chemical compositions of the raw materials are performed to ensure that the right amounts are mixed.

 

  (ii) Mixing and Grinding

 

After stringent checks on the quality of the clay and weighing, the raw material department mixes the clay as determined during inspection. The mixture is then sent to a ball mill where water is added to form a slurry for finer grinding. This process takes approximately 12 hours to complete. The slurry is then filtered and metallic particles are removed magnetically. The slurry is inspected at this stage for density, flow speed and water ratio. Compared with many competitors who use stone ball millers, we use aluminum ball millers to grind materials. Aluminum ball millers have a higher initial cost, but have higher grinding speed and can better process stone chips existing in the slurry. The slurry is then moved to a large slurry pool. Based on the production schedule, portions of the slurry may be moved to smaller slurry pools where coloring materials can be added. The mixture in smaller slurry pools are churned for approximately 24 hours to keep quality and color consistent in the end product.

 

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  (iii) Spray Drying

 

A spray dryer is then used to remove most of the water content in the slurry to obtain granules with the required moisture level for processing. The slurry is pumped into an atomizer, consisting of a rapidly rotating disk or nozzle where droplets are formed. The droplets of the slurry spray are then dried by a rising hot air column, forming small free-flowing granules of a standard size and specific moisture content which is used in the next stage. The stream of gases used to dry the slurry can be at temperatures as high as 1,100°C. The granules are then moved to and held in steel containers called hoppers for over 24 hours to ensure consistency and uniformity of granule size and color.

 

  (iv) Molding

 

The granules flow from a hopper into the mold die where they are compressed by steel plungers and then ejected by the bottom plunger in varying sizes based on specifications. The automated presses used operate at pressures as high as 1,600 tons per square meter. The ceramic bisque, a shaped non-fired ceramic tile, is then passed through to the dryer to remove most of the remaining water content present in preparation for the firing and/or glazing stages. The tiles are fed into the dryer and conveyed horizontally on rollers, at temperatures of 250°C for approximately 15 to 25 minutes based on tile type.

 

  (v) Glazing

 

Glazing involves applying one or more coats of glaze, comprised mainly of silica and other coloring agents such as iron, chromium, cobalt or manganese, onto the tile surface. The dried ceramic bisque is then sent to the glazing station where a design and/or color is added. The glaze concentration and glazing quantity is controlled by computers to avoid chromatic aberration and lack of uniformity. Not all products, such as porcelain tiles, require glazing.

 

  (vi) Firing

 

After molding and/or glazing, the ceramic bisque is fired in a kiln. Typically, the temperature in a kiln is about 1,200°C and the firing process takes less than one hour. The entire firing process is monitored and controlled by computers. We currently have twelve firing lines, nine located in the Hengda facility and three located at the Hengdali facility.

 

  (vii) Packaging

 

After the firing process, tiles are inspected for quality. Tiles which pass inspection are packaged and moved to the storage facility.

 

Quality Control & Assurance

 

The quality of our products is critical to our continued growth and success. In July 2002, our Hengda facility received ISO 9001:2000 accreditation, an international certification certificate, acknowledging our quality control process. Quality control procedures begin at the receipt of raw materials and continue throughout the manufacturing process ending with a final quality check prior to packaging. Our employees are required to undergo internal training regarding our quality control policies, targets and procedures, as well as production and processing techniques. As of December 31, 2018, our quality assurance team consisted of 8 members.

 

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Notable Awards & Certificates

 

We have received numerous awards and certificates for our branding, product quality and R&D achievements. Select awards include:

 

Year Initially
Received
  Award & Certificate Name   Issuer
         
2002   ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System Certificate   China Certification Center for Quality Mark
         
2005   ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management Standards Certificate   Fujian Branch of Beijing World Standards Certification Centre
         
2005   Fujian Well-known Trademark   Fujian Well-known Trademark Award Commission
         
2005   Chinese Well-known Trademark   Intermediate People’s Court of Xiangtan City
         
2006   Inspection Exempted Products Certificate   National Bureau of Quality and Technical Supervision
         
2007   High-tech Enterprise Certificate   Fujian Provincial Department of Science and Technology
         
2008   Energy Conservation Advanced Enterprise   Jinjiang City Government
         
2009   Fujian 100 Important Industrial Enterprise   Fujian Economic and Trading Commission
         
2010   Asia’s 500 Most Influential Brands 2010   World Brand Laboratory
         
2010   Fujian’s Top 300 Enterprises   Fujian Enterprise Evaluation Center and Fujian Enterprise Evaluation Association
         
2011   China’s 500 Most Valuable Brands   World Brand Laboratory
         
2011   Top 100 Fastest Growing Enterprises for China Building Material   China Building Materials Enterprise Management Association
         
2011   Top 500 Enterprise in China Building Material   China Building Materials Enterprise Management Association
         
2011   Customer Preferred Top 10 Brand   China International Nameplate Development Association
         
2012   Asia’s 500 Most Influential Brands 2012   World Brand Laboratory
         
2013   China’s 500 Most Valuable Brands   World Brand Laboratory
         
2013   Asia’s 500 Most Influential Brands 2013   World Brand Laboratory
         
2014   China’s 500 Most Valuable Brands   World Brand Laboratory

 

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Customers, Sales & Marketing

 

We primarily sell our products through an exclusive distributor network or directly to property developers. Distributors are located in major cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenyang and second and third tier cities such as Chengdu, Haikou, Hefei, Tianjin, Wuhan and other rural areas in the PRC. We have long-term relationships with many of our customers; most of our top ten customers in 2016 have been purchasing from us for several years.

 

The following table sets forth revenues by geographic market and the related percentage for the years ended 2016, 2017 and 2018:

 

Geographic   2016     2017     2018  
Market   RMB’000     Percentage     RMB’000     Percentage     RMB’000     Percentage  
PRC     750,966       94.6 %     772,221       94 %     475,413       95 %
Japan     5,243       0.7 %     7,072       0.9 %     3,113       0.6 %
Burma     4,365       0.5 %     4,519       0.5 %     2,840       0.6 %
India     4,374       0.6 %     6,172       0.8 %     2,393       0.5 %
Korea     4,069       0.5 %     4,213       0.5 %     2,673       0.5 %
Thailand     3,893       0.5 %     4,031       0.5 %     2,122       0.4 %
Hong Kong     3,960       0.5 %     5,743       0.7 %     1,661       0.3 %
Spain     2,739       0.3 %     2,836       0.4 %     1,013       0.2 %
Turkey     2,884       0.4 %     2,786       0.3 %     1,358       0.3 %
South Africa     2,775       0.3 %     2,573       0.3 %     1,495       0.3 %
Sierra Leone     1,903       0.2 %     1,870       0.2 %     935       0.2 %
Ghana     1,841       0.2 %     1,906       0.2 %     866       0.2 %
Russia     1,602       0.2 %     2,280       0.3 %     709       0.1 %
Morocco     1,678       0.2 %     1,737       0.2 %     773       0.2 %
Great Britain     1,453       0.2 %     1,833       0.2 %     825       0.2 %
Total     793,745       100 %     821,792       100 %     498,189       100 %

  

Our top ten customers are set forth in the table below, and none of these customers individually accounted for more than 10% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2016; just one customer accounted for more than 10% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 1 customer(s) accounted for more than 10% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

The following table sets forth revenue for our major customers and the related percentage of our net revenue for the years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

 

    2016     2017     2018  
Customer Name   RMB’000     Percentage     RMB’000     Percentage     RMB’000     Percentage  
Foshan City Jundian Ceramics Co., Ltd.     57,470       7.2 %     86,249       10.5 %     65,815       13.2 %
Fuzhou Chuanpin Materials Co., Ltd.     47,282       6.0 %     54,785       6.7 %                
Xiamen Xinrui Materials Co., Ltd.     40,308       5.1 %     64,216       7.8 %     45,971       9.2 %
Chengdu City Dehui Construction Materials Co., Ltd.     34,770       4.4 %     57,005       6.9 %     42,285       8.5 %
Yangzhou Qiyang Trading Co., Ltd     29,010       3.7 %     25,161       3.1 %     20,079       4.0 %
Kunming Minhengda Trading Co. Ltd.     28,764       3.6 %     13,083       1.6 %     -       - %
Nanjing Huli Construction Materials Co., Ltd.     28,242       3.6 %     44,946       5.5 %     22,770       4.6 %
Liuzhou City Shengquanda Trading Co., Ltd     27,791       3.5 %     28,906       3.5 %     23,084       6 %
Shangrao New Fangyuan Materials Co., Ltd.     26,739       3.4 %     34,377       4.2 %     8,022       1.6 %
Beihai Jinligao Materials Co., Ltd.     26,591       3.4 %     14,619       1.8 %     -       - %

  

Our business and profitability is not materially dependent on any industrial, commercial or financial contract with any of our customers. None of our directors or executive officers or their respective affiliates has any interest, direct or indirect, in any of our customers.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The sales and marketing department is responsible for formulating sales policies and pricing based on market analysis, surveys and forecasts, developing and implementing our sales and marketing campaigns, and promoting our products and brand. Additionally, our sales department is responsible for cultivating new customers and business relationships, as well as servicing existing accounts.

 

We participate in a variety of sales and marketing activities including trade shows, in-house sales and marketing seminars, factory tours, outdoor advertising, B2B catalogs and customer calls. We believe that these techniques allow us to gather and better understand customers’ needs and requirements and to obtain feedback on our products and services and intend to continue utilizing these techniques.

 

In the future, we intend to participate in international trade fairs and seminars from time to time to promote our brand and products, and to establish a network with industry professionals outside the PRC. To augment our plan to expand our markets internationally, our products will also be advertised on and available to purchase on the Internet. As of December 31, 2016, our Sales and Marketing Department had 40 employees.

 

Backlog

 

We typically receive orders from customers two months in advance of production on a rolling basis. We enter into a dealership agreement with customers, and a sales or purchase contract each time a customer places an order. If a customer makes any changes to an order after we have used any raw materials in fulfilling the order, the customer bears the losses. Once we have delivered the products to the customer and the customer has examined and accepted the products, we provide no quality guarantees. We confirm amounts payable with each customer on a monthly basis. The products typically must be delivered to customers within 90 days of receipt of the sales order, and the customers typically must pay for the products within 120 to 150 days of delivery.

 

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As of December 31, 2018, our backlog was nil, compared to a backlog of approximately RMB 70.7 million as of December 31, 2017, which represents approximately the next two months of revenue at the time.

 

Major Suppliers & Raw Materials

 

Our suppliers are selected by our purchasing department and are assessed on criteria such as the quality of materials supplied, duration of their business relationship with us, pricing, delivery reliability and response time to orders placed by us. We have sufficient raw materials on hand to support, on average, three weeks of production at any point in time to minimize any potential production delays that could arise due to a delay in raw material delivery.

 

We have not experienced significant production disruptions due to a supply shortage from our suppliers, nor have we had a major dispute with a supplier.

 

Our major suppliers for the last three years are set forth in the table below, and except for Jinjiang Xinao Gas Company Limited and Foshan City Sanshui Baoligao Inorganic Materials Co., Ltd., no suppliers accounted for more than 10% of our total purchases of raw materials and energy sources for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Our business or profitability is not materially dependent on any industrial, commercial or financial contract with any of our suppliers.

 

The following chart lists our major suppliers and the related percentage of our total purchases of raw materials and energy sources in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018:

 

        2016     2017     2018  
Supplier Name   Type   RMB’000     Percentage     RMB’000     Percentage     RMB’000     Percentage  
                                         
Jinjiang Xinao Gas Company Limited   Gas     61,136       10.56 %     69,248       9.4 %     36,050       10.9 %
Jinjiang Xinao Gas Company Limited   Color     60,153       10.39 %                                
Quanzhou Like Ceramic Materials Co., Ltd.   Color     45,069       7.79 %     53,493       7.3 %     10,573       3.1 %
Foshan City Nanhai Huaxiong Ceramic Materials Co., Ltd.   Color     42,779       7.39 %     38,403       5.2 %     30,843       9.2 %
Fengxin Huafeng Ceramic Co., Ltd.   Clay     54,914       9.49 %     52,853       7.2 %     31,275       9.4 %
Yongchun Junjie Mining Co., Ltd.   Coal     54,962       9.49 %     58,893       8.0 %     34,351       10.3 %
Foshan City Nanhai Zhongtai Glaze Production Plant   Color     35,046       6.05 %     14,449       2.0 %     30,843       9.3 %
Foshan City Sanshui Golden Eagle Inorganic Materials Co., Ltd.   Color     42,821       7.40 %     39,922       5.4 %     25,975       7.8 %
Guangfeng Fangzhengfeikuang Co., Ltd.   Clay     23,835       4.12 %                                
Fujian Nanping Minning Mining Exploitation Co., Ltd.   Clay     16,473       2.89 %     30,899       4.2 %     18,023       5.4 %

 

None of our officers or directors or their respective affiliates has any interest, direct or indirect, in any of the above major suppliers. There are no arrangements or understanding with any suppliers pursuant to which any of our directors and executive officers were appointed.

 

Research and Development

 

We have devoted substantial resources to establishing research and development capabilities in an effort to improve our products and diversify our product mix. Our research and development team focuses on new products as well as developing energy and resource efficient production methods.

 

We focus our research and development efforts on the following:

 

  · Expanding and improving production capacity;

 

  · Improving and developing new production and processing techniques;

 

  · Improving the use and selection of raw materials to lower costs; and

 

  · Developing new products and designs to address changing market demands.

 

Our research and development costs were approximately RMB 0.8 million, RMB 0.94 million and RMB 0.76 million for fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018. From time to time, we may enter into collaboration agreements with research institutes to develop new products or improve our production process. As of December 31, 2018, our R&D department had 7 employees.

 

Competition

 

We face intense competition from our existing competitors and new market entrants. Our primary competitors are usually privately-owned companies that are located mainly in the PRC. Our principal competitors are Guangdong White Rabbit Ceramics, Foshan Shiwan Yulong Ceramics Co., Ltd, Jinjiang Haoyuan Ceramics, Co., Ltd, Jinjiang Wanli Ceramics Co., Ltd, Jinjiang Tengda Ceramics Co., Ltd and Jinjiang Haoshan Construction Materials Co., Ltd. We compete primarily based on product quality, brand recognition, and an extensive distributor network.

 

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Intellectual Property

 

We protect our intellectual property primarily through a mix of patent and trademark registrations.

 

Registered Trademarks

 

Our brand name distinguishes our products and promotes consumer awareness of our products.

 

We have registered the following trademarks in the PRC:

 

Trademark   Class/Products   Validity Term   Registration No.
             
  19/ Tile, ceramic tile and wave pattern tile   From February 21, 2012 to February 20, 2022   1716827
             
  19/ Tile; non-metallic tile; ceramic tile; non-metallic wall tile for constructional use; wave pattern tile; glass mosaic; non-metallic floor tile   From March 28, 2009 to March 27, 2019   4971248
             
  19/ Tile; non-metallic tile;  ceramic tile; glass mosaic;  non-metallic tile for constructional use; non-metallic construction material; marble; granite; manual stone.   From October 21, 2010 to October 20, 2020   7543650
             
  19/ Tile; non-metallic tile; non-metallic tile for constructional use; non-metallic wall tile for constructional use; non-metallic floor tile; non-metallic ground tile; glass mosaic; plaster; cement; concrete building unit.   From May 14, 2011 to May 13, 2021   8289754
             
  19/ Tile; non-metallic tile; non-metallic tile for constructional use; non-metallic wall tile for constructional use; non-metallic floor tile; non-metallic ground tile; glass mosaic; plaster; cement; concrete building unit.   From May 14, 2011 to May 13, 2021   8289921
             
    19/ Tile, ceramic tile, asbestos cement tile, glass mosaic, non-metallic tile, non-metallic tile for constructional use, fireclay, firebrick, tile, ceramic kiln furniture.   From April 13, 2011 to January 27, 2020   1357830

 

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Before April 13, 2011, WULIQIAO was a trademark owned by Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. for Class 19 (Products: tile, ceramic tile, asbestos cement tile, glass mosaic, non-metallic tile, non-metallic tile for constructional use, fireclay, firebrick, tile, ceramic kiln furniture). Hengda signed a Trademark Licensing Contract with Fujian Province Jinjiang City Hengda Construction Materials Co., Ltd. and was licensed the exclusive right to use WULIQIAO during the terms of that trademark, which expires on January 27, 2020. Since April 13, 2011, WULIQIAO has been transferred to Hengdali, according to Certificate of Approved Transference of Trademark issued on April 13, 2011 by Trademark Office of the State Administration for Industry & Commerce of the P.R. China.

 

Patents

 

We currently own twenty two utility model patents in the PRC for exterior wall tiles, which were applied for in November of 2007, July of 2011 and November of 2012 respectively. A “utility model patent” is a new technical solution relating to the shape, the structure, or their combination, of a product, which is fit for practical use. Utility model patents have a ten year term from the application date.

 

Except as disclosed above, as of December 31, 2018, our business or profitability is not materially dependent on any other trademarks, copyrights, registered designs, patents, grant of licenses from third parties, new manufacturing processes or other intellectual property rights.

 

Environmental

 

We are subject to various environmental regulations with respect to noise and air pollution and discharge of hazardous materials. We are also subject to periodic inspection. Our Hengda facility obtained a Temporary Pollutant Discharge Permit (No.350582-2014-000260) granted by Jinjiang City Environmental Protection Bureau that will expire on May 1, 2016, and we are currently in the process of applying for the renewal of the permit. The permit is subject to annual renewal. We are currently in the process of applying for a Pollutant Discharge Permit for our Hengdali production facility. We are not subject to any pending actions of alleged violations of applicable PRC environmental laws. If the Pollutant Discharge Permit is not issued and Hengdali discharges pollutants, Hengdali may be warned, ordered to stop discharging pollutants, and/or fined by the environmental protection agency.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

On June 6, 2014, a putative class action complaint (the “Pollock Complaint”) was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and various current and former directors and officers asserting claims of violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder against all defendants, and asserting claims for violations of Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act against the individual defendants; and pursuing remedies under the Exchange Act. The complaint is captioned Robert Pollock, Individually and On Behalf Of All Others Similarly Situated v. Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Hen Man Edmund, Ding Wei Dong, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, William L. Stulginsky, Su Wei Feng, Shen Cheng Liang, Jianwei Liu, And China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (Case No. 14-cv-4100).

 

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On June 16, 2014, a putative class action complaint (the “Artinoff Complaint”) was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and various current and former directors and officers asserting claims of violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder against all defendants, and asserting claims for violations of Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act against the individual defendants; and pursuing remedies under the Exchange Act. The complaint is captioned Roger Artinoff, Individually and On Behalf of All Others Similarly Situated v. China Ceramics Co. Ltd., Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Hen Man Edmund, Ding Wei Dong, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, William L. Stulginsky And Su Wei Feng. (Case No. 14-cv-4312).

 

On July 2, 2014, a putative class action complaint (the “Finlayson Complaint”) was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and various current and former directors and officers asserting claims for violations of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder against all defendants, and claims for violations of Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act against the individual defendants; and pursuing remedies under the Exchange Act. The complaint is captioned Richard Finlayson, Individually and On Behalf Of All Others Similarly Situated v. Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Hen Man Edmund, Ding Wei Dong, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, William L. Stulginsky, Su Wei Feng, Shen Cheng Liang, Jianwei Liu, and China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (Case No. 14-cv-4997).

 

On February 6, 2015, the Company and the individual defendants reached an agreement in principle to settle the class action litigation brought against the Company in consideration of the payment by the Company of $850,000, consisting of $310,000 payable in cash and $540,000 to be issued in the Company’s common shares.  On January 6, 2016, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Court”) held a final hearing to consider approval of the settlement, and on April 22, 2016, it issued a final order approving the settlement and ordering that the parties file a stipulation voluntarily dismissing the action on or before May 23, 2016 or, in the alternative, to file a joint letter by the same deadline stating the reasons for the delay in filing such a stipulation. On April 22, 2016, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a final order approving the settlement. The Company remitted $310,000 in cash and issued 554,415 common shares in full satisfaction of the terms of the settlement. The case was closed on August 2, 2016.

 

Seasonality

 

The second and third calendar quarters have been the peak season of the property developing industry, and, therefore, our quarterly sales are usually highest from May to September compared to the rest of the year. We have lower sales between the months of January and March due to the effects of cold weather and the PRC Spring Festival.

 

The seasonality information above is based on our turnover trend in the last three years and may vary slightly from year to year depending on the demand by our customers and end customers for our products. However, management believes that the seasonality information for the last three years is representative of the seasonality trend going forward.

 

Governmental Regulations

 

Environmental Protection Regulations

 

In accordance with the PRC Environmental Protection Law adopted on December 26, 1989, the Administration Supervisory Department of Environmental Protection of the State Council sets the national guidelines for the discharge of pollutants. The People’s Governments of provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities may also set their own guidelines for the discharge of pollutants within their own provinces or districts in the event that the national guidelines are inadequate. A company which causes environmental pollution and discharges other polluting materials which endanger the public should implement environmental protection methods and procedures into their business operations. This may be achieved by setting up a system of accountability within the company’s business structure for environmental protection, adopting effective procedures to prevent environmental hazards such as waste gases, water and residues, dust powder, radioactive materials and noise arising from production, construction and other activities from polluting and endangering the environment. The environmental protection system and procedures should be implemented simultaneously with the commencement of and during the operation of construction, production and other activities undertaken by the company. Any company which discharges environmental pollutants should report and register such discharge with the Administration Supervisory Department of Environmental Protection and pay any fines imposed for the discharge. A fee may also be imposed on the company for the cost of any work required to restore the environment to its original state. Companies which have caused severe pollution to the environment are required to restore the environment or remedy the effects of the pollution within a prescribed time limit. If a company fails to report and/or register the environmental pollution it caused, it will receive a warning or be penalized. Companies that fail to restore the environment or remedy the effects of the pollution within the prescribed time will be penalized or have their business licenses terminated. Companies that have polluted and endangered the environment must bear the responsibility for remedying the danger and effects of the pollution, as well as to compensate any losses or damages suffered as a result of such environmental pollution.

 

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Our Hengda facility obtained a Temporary Pollutant Discharge Permit (No.350582-2014-000260) granted by Jinjiang City Environmental Protection Bureau that will expire on May 1, 2016, and we are currently in the process of applying for the renewal of the permit. Hengdali is currently in the process of applying for a Pollutant Discharge Permit, and the environmental protection agency in Gaoan has accepted Hengdali’s application. If the Pollutant Discharge Permit is not issued and Hengdali discharges pollutants, Hengdali may be warned, ordered to stop discharging pollutants, and/or fined by the environmental protection agency.

  

Government Regulations Relating to Foreign Exchange Controls

 

The principal regulation governing foreign exchange in the PRC is the Foreign Currency Administration Rules and a series of implementing rules and regulations, as amended. Under these rules, the Renminbi, the PRC’s currency, is freely convertible for trade and service related foreign exchange transactions (such as normal purchases and sales of goods and services from providers in foreign countries), but not for direct investment, loan or investment in securities outside of China unless the prior approval of the State Administration for Foreign Exchange, or SAFE, of the PRC is obtained. Foreign investment enterprises, or FIEs, are required to apply to the SAFE for Foreign Exchange Registration Certificates for FIEs. With such registration certificates, which need to be renewed annually, FIEs are allowed to open foreign currency accounts including a basic account and capital account. Currency translation within the scope of the basic account, such as remittance of foreign currencies for payment of dividends, can be effected without requiring the approval of the SAFE. Such transactions are subject to the consent of PRC banks which are authorized by the SAFE to review basic account currency transactions. However, conversion of currency in the capital account, including capital items such as direct investment, loans and securities, still require approval of the SAFE. On November 21, 2005, the SAFE issued Circular No. 75 on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Control on Domestic Residents Corporate Financing and Roundtrip Investment Through Offshore Special Purpose Vehicles. Circular No. 75 confirms that the use of offshore special purpose vehicles as holding companies for PRC investments are permitted, but proper foreign exchange registration applications are required to be reviewed and accepted by the SAFE.

 

Regulation of Foreign Currency Exchange

 

Foreign currency exchange in the PRC is governed by a series of regulations, including, without limitation, the Foreign Currency Administrative Rules (1996), as amended, and the Administrative Regulations Regarding Settlement, Sale and Payment of Foreign Exchange (1996), as amended. Under these regulations, the Renminbi is freely convertible for trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions, but not for direct investment, loans or investments in securities outside China without the prior approval of the SAFE. Pursuant to the Administrative Regulations Regarding Settlement, Sale and Payment of Foreign Exchange, foreign-invested enterprises in China may purchase foreign exchange without the approval of the SAFE for trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions by providing commercial documents evidencing these transactions. They may also retain foreign exchange, subject to a cap approved by SAFE, to satisfy foreign exchange liabilities or to pay dividends. However, the relevant Chinese government authorities may limit or eliminate the ability of foreign-invested enterprises to purchase and retain foreign currencies in the future. In addition, foreign exchange transactions for direct investment, loan and investment in securities outside China are still subject to limitations and require approvals from the SAFE. On August 29, 2008, SAFE issued Circular No. 142 on Relevant Business Operations Issues Concerning Improving the Administration of the Payment and Settlement of Foreign Exchange Capital of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, with respect to the administration of conversion of foreign exchange capital contributions of FIEs into Renminbi, unless otherwise permitted by PRC laws or regulations, Renminbi converted from foreign exchange capital contributions can only be applied to activities within the approved business scope of FIEs and cannot be used for domestic equity investment or acquisitions.

 

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Regulation of Dividend Distribution

 

The principal laws and regulations in China governing distribution of dividends by foreign-invested companies include:

 

  · The Sino-foreign Equity Joint Venture Law (1979), as amended;

 

  · The Regulations for the Implementation of the Sino-foreign Equity Joint Venture Law (1983), as amended;

 

  · The Sino-foreign Cooperative Enterprise Law (1988), as amended;

 

  · The Detailed Rules for the Implementation of the Sino-foreign Cooperative Enterprise Law (1995), as amended;

 

  · The Foreign Investment Enterprise Law (1986), as amended; and

 

  · The Regulations of Implementation of the Foreign Investment Enterprise Law (1990), as amended.

 

Under these regulations, foreign-invested enterprises in China may pay dividends only out of their accumulated profits, if any, determined in accordance with Chinese accounting standards and regulations. In addition, wholly foreign-owned enterprises in China are required to set aside at least 10% of their respective accumulated profits each year, if any, to fund certain reserve funds unless such reserve funds have reached 50% of their respective registered capital. These reserves are not distributable as cash dividends.

 

Insurance

 

We have not purchased insurance coverage for product liability or third party liability and are therefore not covered or compensated by insurance in respect of losses, damages, claims and liabilities arising from or in connection with product liability or third party liability. In addition, we currently do not maintain business interruption insurance. As a result, our business and prospects could be adversely affected in the event of such problems in our operations and may suffer losses that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

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  C . Organizational Structure

 

The following chart illustrates China Ceramics’ organizational structure as of December 31, 2018:

 

 

 

Corporate Structure and Background

 

Our principal PRC-based operating subsidiary, Hengda, was established on September 30, 1993 under the laws of PRC. All of the equity interests in Hengda are 100% owned by Stand Best. Hengda is a wholly foreign-owned enterprise in China.

 

Hengdali was established on May 4, 2008 under the laws of PRC. All of the equity interests in Hengdali are 100% owned by Hengda.

 

Stand Best was established on January 17, 2008 under the laws of Hong Kong. Stand Best acquired the entire shareholdings of Hengda on April 1, 2008 for consideration of RMB 58,980,000. As a result of this acquisition, Hengda became the wholly owned subsidiary of Stand Best.

 

Success Winner was established on May 29, 2009 under the laws of British Virgin Islands with Mr. Wong Kung Tok as its sole shareholder and sole director.

 

On June 30, 2009, pursuant to the capitalization agreement dated June 30, 2009, Success Winner was issued the 9,999 shares allotted by Stand Best as per the capitalization exercise of a shareholder’s loan of HK$67.9 million (RMB 58.9 million). On the same date, the shareholder of Stand Best, Mr. Wong Kung Tok transferred all his shareholdings in Stand Best to Success Winner. Therefore, Mr. Wong Kung Tok, from June 30, 2009 to November 20, 2009, indirectly owned 100% of Stand Best and in turn, 100% of Hengda.

 

CHAC was incorporated in Delaware on June 22, 2007 and was organized as a blank check company for the purpose of acquiring, through a stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, or controlling, through contractual arrangements, an operating business that had its principal operations in Asia, with a focus on potential acquisition target in China.

 

Pursuant to the terms of a merger and stock purchase agreement dated August 19, 2009, on November 20, 2009, CHAC merged with and into China Ceramics, its wholly owned British Virgin Islands subsidiary, and immediately thereafter, as part of the same integrated transaction, China Ceramics acquired all of the outstanding securities of Success Winner.

 

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Prior to China Ceramics’ acquisition of Success Winner, neither CHAC nor China Ceramics’ had any operations.

 

On November 19, 2009, Hengda entered into a definitive acquisition agreement to acquire a new production facility in Gaoan, Jiangxi Province, PRC by purchasing 100% of the equity interests in Hengdali. The closing of the acquisition was subject to the Gaoan City Administration for Industry and Commerce transferring the registration and business license of Hengdali from Hengdali’s former shareholders to Hengda. The transfer occurred on January 8, 2010. Hengda appointed an executive officer to take control over Hengdali’s operating and financing activities on the same day. In total, Hengda assumed loans of RMB 60.0 million and paid cash consideration of RMB 185.5 million for the acquisition, of which RMB 145.4 million was advanced to Hengdali’s former shareholders by December 31, 2009.

 

On September 17, 2013, Fujian Province Hengdali Building Materials Co., Ltd. (“Fujian Hengdali”) was incorporated in Pingtan, Fujian Province, and is 100% owned by Hengda. Fujian Hengdali’s approved scope of business includes sales of building materials and interior and exterior decoration materials. Fujian Hengdali had no operations since the incorporation date, and in August 2017, the Company disposed Fujian Hengdali for RMB0 to a third-party. A loss on disposal of RMB736,000 was recognized in other expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 relating to this transaction. 

 

On September 22, 2017, Success Winner incorporated a 100% owned subsidiary Vast Elite Limited (“Vast Elite”) in Hong Kong with initial registered capital of HKD1. Vast Elite is engaged in the trading of building materials but during the year ended December 31, 2017, Vast Elite had no operations.

  

  D. Property, plant and equipment

 

Together with three other companies, we jointly own six buildings comprised of one office building and five workshops in Jinjiang, Fujian Province. We recorded the related fixed assets in proportion to the amount we paid for our part of the buildings, which represents our interests in the buildings. As co-owners of these six buildings under the relevant Building Ownership Certificate, all co-owners have collective rights and obligations to the jointly-owned property under PRC law, and typically the disposal of such jointly owned property by one owner without the consent of all other owners is prohibited.

 

The land-use rights of this workshop and the co-owned six buildings expire in 2055 and cover approximately 10,023 square meters. We also own land-use rights at two locations and seven buildings in Gaoan for office buildings, workshops, warehouses, and raw material yards and staff quarters. The land-use rights for these two facilities expire in 2058 and cover an aggregate of approximately 244,324 square meters.

 

We currently lease 17 properties in Jinjiang, Fujian Province in the PRC for various uses including warehouses, office space, workshops, staff quarters and stock yards. The lease terms range from three to five years.

 

As of December 31, 2016 our Hengda production facility in Jinjiang City, Fujian Province in the PRC, had a total gross floor area of approximately 140,000 square meters and employed 728 production personnel and our Hengdali production facility in Gaoan, Jiangxi Province in the PRC, has a total gross floor area of approximately 244,324 square meters and employed 393 production personnel. The Hengda facility consists of nine production lines with an annual production capacity of 42 million square meters. The Hengdali facility consists of five production lines with an annual production capacity of 30 million square meters of ceramic tiles. Historically, we have not experienced any form of disruption in our production facility. However, our annual production capacity has been effectively reduced from 72 million square meters of ceramic tiles to 66 million square meters of ceramic tiles due to an eight-year contract to lease out one of the production lines from our Hengdali facility that we entered into in March 2016. Our annual production capacity was further reduced to 56.5 million square meters of ceramic tiles due to our having retired two old furnaces at the Hengda facility in July of 2018. Due to current economic conditions, we are currently utilizing production facilities capable of producing 16.9 million square meters. We currently have twelve production lines (three of which were utilized at the end of 2018), with each production line optimized to manufacture specific size ranges to maximize efficiency and output.

 

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During 2014, our Hengda facility was required by the local governmental entity to begin using natural gas to operate the facility, as opposed to coal. This mandated change in fuel source is part of a province-wide (and country-wide) effort to reduce pollution. This change resulted in our incurring a one-time charge of approximately RMB 5.6 million (US$ 0.9 million) in December 2013, and will increase our cost of goods produced at that facility because natural gas is a more expensive energy source than coal. Fuel source (comprising coal and natural gas) accounted for 12.9% and 20.1% of the total cost of sales in 2018 and 2017, respectively. There is no assurance that in the future our other production facilities will not be required to make similar modifications which could have similar adverse effects on our operations.

 

In 2015, we began renovating the showroom in our Hengda facility (the Hengda Exhibition Hall) that is a valuable resource for the marketing and promotion of our extensive line of building material products. We believe that upgrading this showroom will enable us to continue to secure significant new contracts for our products, especially from larger property developers. Capital expenditures for the new renovations to the Hengda Exhibition Hall were RMB 3.9 million (US$ 0.6 million) in the third quarter of 2015 and RMB 6.6 million (US$ 1.0 million) in the fourth quarter of 2015, with no unpaid balances as of December 31, 2015. The total cost of the renovations, which were completed in the fourth quarter, was RMB 10.5 million (US$ 1.6 million).

  

We also constructed a new production line to manufacture glazed brick ceramic tiles in our Hengdali facility. Capital expenditures for the new line were RMB 18.6 million (US$ 2.9 million) in the third quarter of 2015 and RMB 130.1 million (US$ 20.1 million) in the fourth quarter of 2015, with no unpaid balances as of December 31, 2015. The total cost of the new production line was RMB 148.7 million (US$ 23.0 million).

 

In March 2016, we entered into an eight-year contract to lease out one of the production lines from our Hengdali facility. The production line has the capacity to produce approximately 10 million square meters of ceramic tiles annually. The term of the contract is from March 1, 2016 to February 29, 2024, and the contract stipulates for the receipt of rental income of RMB 15.0 million (US$ 0.5 million) per year, including 6% value added tax. The purpose of this arrangement was to generate income from the unused production capacity.

 

Therefore, for the term of the eight-year lease, and as a result of two old furnaces having been put out of use at the facility, we may only produce up to 28.8 million square meters of ceramic tiles from our Hengdali facility. Consequently, the Company’s maximum annual production capacity has been effectively reduced from 72 million square meters of ceramic tiles to 56.5 million square meters of ceramic tiles.

 

ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

Not applicable.

 

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ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

 

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Overview

 

We are a British Virgin Islands limited liability company whose predecessor, CHAC, was incorporated in Delaware on June 22, 2007 and was organized as a “blank check” company for the purpose of acquiring, through a stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, or controlling, through contractual arrangements, an operating business that had its principal operations in Asia, with a focus on potential acquisition target in China.

 

Pursuant to the terms of a merger and stock purchase agreement dated August 19, 2009, on November 20, 2009, CHAC merged with and into China Ceramics, its wholly owned British Virgin Islands subsidiary, and, immediately thereafter, as part of the same integrated transaction, China Ceramics acquired all of the outstanding securities of Success Winner.

 

China Ceramics, through its operating subsidiaries, is a leading PRC-based manufacturer of ceramic tiles used for exterior siding and for interior flooring and design in residential and commercial buildings. The ceramic tiles, sold under the “HD” or “Hengda”, “HDL” or “Hengdeli”, “TOERTO” and “WULIQIAO” brands, are available in over two thousand styles, colors and size combinations. Currently, we have five principal product categories: (i) porcelain tiles, (ii) glazed tiles, (iii) glazed porcelain tiles, (iv) rustic tiles, and (v) polished glazed tiles. Porcelain tiles are our best-selling products, accounting for over 70.40% and 67.61% of our total revenue in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

Combined, these facilities currently provide an aggregate annual maximum production capacity of approximately 56.5 million square meters (excluding 10 million square meters that is leased out) as of December 31, 2018. In March 2016, the Company entered into an eight-year contract to lease out one of the production lines from its Hengdali facility. The production line has the capacity to produce approximately 10 million square meters of ceramic tiles annually. The term of the contract is from March 1, 2016 to February 29, 2024. The Company believes that it is prudent to generate income from its unused production capacity from a third party rather than let it remain idle. Therefore, for the term of the eight-year lease, the Company may only produce up to 28.8 million square meters of ceramic tiles from its Hengdali facility. In 2017, Hengda retired two old furnaces; in July of 2018, Hengda retired two more old furnaces, which caused Hengda’s annual maximum production capacity to be reduced to approximately 27.7 million, and total effective annual production capacity to 56.5 million ceramic tiles for Hengda and Hengdali at December 31, 2018.

 

Due to currently challenging economic conditions, in fiscal 2018, we utilized production facilities capable of producing 16.9 million square meters ceramic tiles. During 2018, before retiring two old furnaces, we had 14 productions line and utilized 12 productions lines during the peak season. As of December 31, 2018, we had twelve production lines available for production, three of which are in use at the end of fiscal 2018, with each production line optimized to manufacture specific size ranges to maximize efficiency and output. 

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on the selected financial information as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 and has been prepared based on the consolidated financial statements of China Ceramics Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements of China Ceramics Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, or “IASB.” The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments that have been measured at fair value.

 

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The business combination on November 20, 2009 has been accounted for as a reverse recapitalization. The acquisition agreement resulted in the former owner of Success Winner obtaining effective operating and financial control of the combined entity. Prior to the acquisition, we had no operating business. Accordingly, the acquisition does not constitute a business combination for accounting purposes and is accounted for as a capital transaction. That is, the transaction is in substance a reverse recapitalization, equivalent to the issuance of equity interests by Success Winner for the net monetary assets of China Ceramics accompanied by a recapitalization. The consolidated financial statements are a continuation of the financial statements of Success Winner. The assets and liabilities of China Ceramics are recognized at their carrying amounts at the date of acquisition with a corresponding credit to the consolidated equity and no goodwill or other intangible assets are recognized. The equity of the combined entity recognized at the date of acquisition represents the equity balances of Success Winner together with the deemed proceeds from the reverse recapitalization determined as described above. However, the equity structure presented in the consolidated financial statements (number and values of equity instruments issued) reflects the equity structure of the legal parent, China Ceramics. Costs directly attributable to the transaction have been debited to equity to the extent of net monetary assets received.

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth our financial results for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively:

 

RMB(‘000)   2016     2017     2018  
Revenue     793,745       821,792       498,189  
Cost of sales     (823,856 )     (771,438 )     (499,355 )
Gross profit (loss)     (30,111 )     50,354       (1,166 )
Other income     15,233       14,253       14,637  
Other expenses     (11,381 )     (5,220 )     (1,461 )
Selling and distribution expenses     (12,815 )     (11,962 )     (11,026 )
Administrative expenses     (22,764 )     (17,249 )     (17,990 )
Bad debt Expense     (23,940 )     (71,565 )     (316,438 )
Loss from asset devaluation     (230,359 )     (36,683 )     (85,021 )
Finance costs     (84 )     (213 )     -  
Loss before taxation     (316,221 )     (78,285 )     (418,465 )
Income tax (expenses)/credit     (5,581 )     (9,741 )     (209 )
Loss attributable to shareholders     (321,802 )     (88,026 )     (418,674 )

  

Description of Selected Income Statement Items

 

Revenue .  We generate revenue from the sales of ceramic tiles, including porcelain tiles, glazed porcelain tiles, glazed tiles, rustic tiles and polished glazed tiles, net of rebates and discounts. For the past three fiscal years, the second and third calendar quarters have been the peak season of the property developing industry, and, therefore, our quarterly sales are usually highest from May to September compared to the rest of the year. Conversely, our sales were lower between the months of January to March. This is because property developing activities tend to be low due to the effects of cold weather and the PRC Spring Festival. Beginning on July 1, 2016, we reduced the selling price of certain of our slow-moving products by 10% with the goal of turning some of this inventory into cash. Beginning on October 1, 2016, in order to generate sales and move inventory, we instituted a 20% reduction in price of our slow-moving products. However, in 2017, we increased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 20%. Although we increased our average selling price twice with 10% product raises in 2017, we were not able to return to the price levels achieved prior to 2016. Revenue increased by 3.5% for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. This was mainly due to the 10.6% increase in sales volume but offset by a 6.4% decrease in average selling price as compared to 2016; the decrease in average selling price contributed to the increase in sales volume.  In April of 2018, we increased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 5%, but the sales did not improve as we expected, but decreased sharply due to a slowdown of the real estate industry, especially in the second half of the year. Therefore, we decreased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 10% in July 2018 to respond to the difficult market conditions. Revenue decreased by 39.4% for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 mainly due to the 44.6% decrease in sales volume. However,  certain core products maintained their pricing levels despite our having decreased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 10% , which the result that our average selling price increased by 9.4% in fiscal 2018 compared to 2017.

 

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Cost of sales .  Cost of sales consists of costs directly attributable to production, including the cost of clay, color materials, glaze materials, coal, salaries for staff engaged in production activity, electricity, depreciation, packing materials, and related expenses.

 

The most significant factors that directly or indirectly affect our cost of sales are as follows:

 

  · Availability and price of clay;

 

  · Availability and price of coal; and

 

  · Availability and price of dyes; and

 

  · Price of energy.

 

Clay is a key material for making ceramic tiles, and accounted for approximately 21.3% and 25.3% of our cost of sales in the years ended December 31,2018 and 2017, respectively. Fujian and Jiangxi Provinces, where our production facilities are located, are the largest clay resources areas in China and clay supply is stable and sufficient for our production and planned production.

 

Dyes are another key material for making ceramic tiles, and accounted for approximately 27.4% and 28.4% of our cost of sales in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. A number of dyes are used in ceramic tiles, and the prices of different dyes have experienced fluctuations in the past few years.

 

Coal is another key material for making ceramic tiles on the natural gas conversion for the firing process. Coal accounted for approximately 6.2% and 2.0% of our cost of sales in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. We have long-term relationships with our coal suppliers. Prices of coal have experienced fluctuations in the past few years. In 2018, Hengda used natural gas instead of coal for making ceramic tile, and the natural gas accounted for approximately 6.6% of our cost of sales.

 

Other income and other expenses .  Other income consists of interest income, foreign exchange gain/loss, gain on disposal of equipment and rental income by leasing out one of its production lines. Other expenses primarily consist of the loss on disposal of equipment and the depreciation by leasing out one of its production lines.

 

Selling and distribution expenses .  Selling and distribution expenses consist of payroll, traveling expenses, transportation and advertising expenses incurred by our selling and distribution team.

 

Administrative expenses .  Administrative expenses consist primarily of employee remuneration, payroll taxes and benefits, general office expenses, depreciation. We expect administrative expenses to remain constant comparing with the prior year.

 

Finance Costs .  Finance costs consist of interest expense on bank loans. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the finance costs mainly consisted of the interest expense that we paid on a convertible note.

 

Income taxes . Our subsidiaries in the PRC are subject to the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, and the applicable income tax rate pursuant to such law in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 is 25%.

 

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Results of Operations

 

Fiscal Year Ended 2018 Compared to the Fiscal Year Ended 2017

 

Revenue .  The following table sets forth the breakdown of revenue, by product categories, for years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

 

Revenue RMB (000)   2017     Percentage         2018       Percentage  
Porcelain     555,642       67.6 %     350,749       70.4 %
Glazed Porcelain     32,063       3.9 %     11,031       2.2 %
Glazed     35,021       4.3 %     9,973       2.1 %
Rustic     81,354       9.9 %     56,264       11.2 %
Polished Glazed     117,712       14.3 %     70,172       14.1 %
Total     821,792       100.0 %     498,189       100.0 %

 

Revenue decreased by RMB 323.6 million, or 39.4%, to RMB 498.2 million ($75.4 million) in the year ended December 31, 2018, from RMB 821.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to the decrease in sales volume of 44.6% despite our average sales price increase of 9.4%.

 

  Porcelain tiles . Revenue from the sales of porcelain tiles decreased 36.9%, from RMB 555.6 million ($82.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 to RMB 350.7 million ($53.1 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in our sales volume in 2018 as compared to 2017. Porcelain tiles for exterior walls are still our most popular product and have the largest market potential of all of our tiles. We expect porcelain tiles to continue to be our key product for the foreseeable future.

 

Glazed porcelain tiles.  Revenue from glazed porcelain tiles decreased 65.6%, from approximately RMB 32.1 million ($4.8 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 to RMB 11.0 million ($1.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018. 

 

Glazed tiles . Revenue from glazed tiles decreased 71.6%, from RMB 35.0 million ($5.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 to RMB 10.0 million ($1.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018.   

 

Rustic tiles.  Revenue from rustic tiles decreased 30.8%, from RMB 81.4 million ($12.1 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 to RMB 56.3 million ($8.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

Polished glazed tiles.  Revenue from polished glazed tiles decreased 40.4%, from RMB 117.7 million ($17.4 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 to RMB 70.2 million ($10.6 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018. We began selling polished glazed tiles in the second quarter of 2011. We believe that this product represents both a functional and cost-effective replacement for actual marble or stone materials used in a decorative fashion inside homes. The polished glazed tiles are larger than our other tiles and we believe that demand for this series will increase in the future.

 

Cost of sales.  The following table sets forth the breakdown of cost of sales, by product segment, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

 

 

Cost of sales RMB (‘000)   2017     Percentage     2018     Percentage  
Porcelain     519,830       67.4 %     350,644       70.2 %
Glazed Porcelain     35,345       4.6 %     12,285       2.5 %
Glazed     34,418       4.4 %     10,368       2.1 %
Rustic     76,184       9.9 %     55,093       11.0 %
Polished Glazed     105,661       13.7 %     70,965       14.2 %
Total     771,438       100.0 %     499,355       100.0 %

 

Cost of sales was RMB 499.4 million ($75.6 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to RMB 771.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, representing a decrease of RMB 272.1 million, or 35.3%. The decrease in cost of sales was primarily due to decreased sales.

  

Gross profit (loss).  The following table breaks down of our gross profit (loss) and gross profit (loss) margin by product segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017: 

 

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    December 31,  
    2017     2018  
RMB (‘000)   Gross
Profit
    Profit
Margin
    Gross
Profit
    Profit
Margin
 
Porcelain     35,812       6.2 %     105       0.0 %
Glazed Porcelain     (3,282 )     (10.5 )%     (1,254 )     (11.4 )%
Glazed     603       1.5 %     (395 )     (4.0 )%
Rustic     5,170       6.1 %     1,171       2.1 %
Polished Glazed     12,051       10.0 %     (793 )     (1.1 )%
All products     50,354       5.9 %     (1,166 )     (0.2 )%

 

Our gross profit (loss) decreased RMB 51.5 million from a gross profit of RMB 50.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 to a gross loss of RMB 1.2 million ($0.2 million) for 2018.

 

Other income.  Other income for the year ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 14.6 million ($2.2 million), as compared to RMB 14.3 million for the same period of 2017. For both 2018 and 2017, other income was mainly the leasing income from leasing out one of the production lines from its Hengdali facility pursuant to an eight-year lease contract.

 

  Selling and distribution expenses. Selling and distribution expenses were RMB 11.0 million ($1.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to RMB 12.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, representing a decrease of RMB 936,000, or 7.8%. The decrease in selling and distribution expenses was primarily due to decreased sales.

 

Administrative expenses.  Administrative expenses were RMB 18.0 million ($2.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to RMB 17.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, representing an increase of RMB 741,000, or 4.2%. The increase in administrative expenses was mainly due to the increased audit and consulting fees of RMB 724,116 for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

Bad debt expense. Bad debt expense was RMB 316.4 million ($47.9 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to RMB 71.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, representing an increase of RMB 244.9 million, or 342.2%. We recognize a loss allowance for expected credit loss on our financial assets, primarily on trade receivables, which are subject to impairment under IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, first effective for the current accounting period. We believe that we have undertaken appropriate measures to resolve the bad debt expense. We will continue to review each of our customers for credit quality as well as assiduously test their accounts receivables balances in each upcoming fiscal period.

 

Loss from Asset Devaluation.  The loss from asset devaluation resulting from an impairment of non-current assets (fixed assets and land use rights) was RMB 85.0 million ($12.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to RMB 36.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The loss from asset devaluation resulted from an impairment of non-current assets due to decelerating growth in China and an expected contraction in the demand for the Company’s products.

 

Finance costs.  Finance costs decreased from RMB 0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 to nil for the year ended December 31, 2018. The decrease mainly due to the decrease in interest expense.  

 

Other expenses.  Other expenses decreased 72.0% or RMB 3.8 million, from RMB 5.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 to RMB 1.5 million ($0.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018. For the year ended December 31, 2018, loss on disposal of a subsidiary was nil. For the year ended December 31, 2017, loss on disposal of a subsidiary was RMB 0.7 million. 

 

Loss before taxation.  Loss before taxation was RMB 78.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to a loss before taxation of RMB 418.5 million ($63.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in loss before taxation was mainly due to increased bad debt expense and increased loss from assets devaluation for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

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Income taxes.  We incurred an income tax expense of RMB 209,000 ($31,000) for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to an income tax expense of RMB 9.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, representing a decrease in tax expense of RMB 9.5 million. Our PRC statutory enterprise income tax rate was 25% for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

Loss attributable to shareholders.  Loss attributable to shareholders was RMB 88.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to a loss attributable to shareholders of RMB 418.7 million ($63.4 million) for year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in net loss attributable to shareholders in 2018 was for the reasons described above.

 

Fiscal Year Ended 2017 Compared to the Fiscal Year Ended 2016

 

Revenue .  The following table sets forth the breakdown of revenue, by product categories, for years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

    December 31  
Revenue RMB (000)   2016     Percentage     2017     Percentage  
Porcelain     514,659       64.84 %     555,642       67.62 %
Glazed Porcelain     32,298       4.07 %     32,063       3.90 %
Glazed     37,010       4.66 %     35,021       4.26 %
Rustic     83,954       10.58 %     81,354       9.90 %
Polished Glazed     125,824       15.85 %     117,712       14.32 %
Total     793,745       100.00 %     821,792       100.00 %

 

Revenue increased by RMB 28.0 million, or 3.5%, to RMB 821.8 million ($121.7 million) in the year ended December 31, 2017, from RMB 793.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in revenue was primarily due to the increase in sales volume of 10.6% despite our average sales price was decrease of 6.4%. The year-over-year sales of porcelain tiles increased in 2017 as compared to 2016 due to positive market trends and customers tastes, while the sales for other types of ceramic tiles decreased.

 

  Porcelain tiles . Revenue from the sales of porcelain tiles increased 8.0%, from RMB 514.7 million ($76.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 555.6 million ($82.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in our sales volume in 2017 as compared to 2016. Porcelain tiles for exterior walls are still our most popular product and have the largest market potential of all of our tiles. We expect porcelain tiles to continue to be our key product for the foreseeable future.

 

Glazed porcelain tiles.  Revenue from glazed porcelain tiles decreased 0.7%, from approximately RMB 32.3 million ($4.8 million) for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 32.1 million ($4.8 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017. 

 

Glazed tiles . Revenue from glazed tiles decreased 5.4%, from RMB 37.0 million ($5.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 35.0 million ($5.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017.   

 

Rustic tiles.  Revenue from rustic tiles decreased 3.1%, from RMB 83.9 million ($12.5 million) for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 81.4 million ($12.1 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017.

 

Polished glazed tiles.  Revenue from polished glazed tiles decreased 6.5%, from RMB 125.8 million ($18.6 million) for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 117.7 million ($17.4 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017. We began selling polished glazed tiles in the second quarter of 2011. We believe that this product represents both a functional and cost-effective replacement for actual marble or stone materials used in a decorative fashion inside homes. The polished glazed tiles are larger than our other tiles and we believe that demand for this series will increase in the future.

 

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Cost of sales.  The following table sets forth the breakdown of cost of sales, by product segment, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

Cost of sales RMB (‘000)   2016     Percentage     2017     Percentage  
Porcelain     533,032       64.07 %     519,830       67.38 %
Glazed Porcelain     38,957       4.73 %     35,345       4.58 %
Glazed     40,790       4.95 %     34,418       4.46 %
Rustic     87,147       10.58 %     76,184       9.88 %
Polished Glazed     123,930       15.04 %     105,661       13.70 %
Total     823,856       100.00 %     771,438       100.00 %

 

Cost of sales was RMB 771.4 million ($114.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to RMB 823.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, representing a decrease of RMB 52.4 million, or 6.4%. The decrease in cost of sales was primarily due to decreased depreciation expense by RMB 29.2 million resulting from the impairment of fixed assets including manufacturing assets, and decreased inventory impairment loss by RMB 77.8 million, despite our actual manufacturing cost increased due to increased sales.

  

Gross profit (loss).  The following table breaks down of our gross profit (loss) and gross profit (loss) margin by product segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

  

    December 31,  
    2016     2017  
RMB (‘000)   Gross
Profit
    Profit
Margin
    Gross
Profit
    Profit
Margin
 
Porcelain     (18,373 )     (3.57 )%     35,812       6.21 %
Glazed Porcelain     (6,659 )     (20.62 )%     (3,282 )     (10.52 )%
Glazed     (3,780 )     (10.21 )%     603       1.47 %
Rustic     (3,193 )     (3.80 )%     5,170       6.12 %
Polished Glazed     1,894       1.51 %     12,051       10.01 %
All products     (30,111 )     (3.79 )%     50,354       5.89 %

 

Our gross profit (loss) increased RMB 80.5 million from a gross loss of RMB 30.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 to a gross profit of RMB 50.4 million ($7.5 million) for 2017.

 

Administrative expenses.  Administrative expenses were RMB 88.8 million ($13.2 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to RMB 46.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, representing an increase of RMB 42.1million, or 90.2%. The increase in administrative expenses was mainly due to the increase in provision for doubtful debts on trade receivables amounting to RMB 71.6 million.

 

Finance costs.  Finance costs increased from RMB 84,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 0.2 million ($31,550) for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase mainly due to the increase in interest expense.  

 

Loss from Asset Devaluation.  The loss from asset devaluation resulting from an impairment of non-current assets (fixed assets and land use rights) was RMB 36.7 million ($5.4 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to RMB 230.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The loss from asset devaluation resulted from an impairment of non-current assets due to decelerating growth in China and an expected contraction in the demand for the Company’s products.

 

Other expenses.  Other expenses decreased 54.4% or RMB 6.2 million, from RMB 11.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 to RMB 5.2 million ($0.8 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2017, loss on disposal of  a subsidiary was RMB 0.7 million. For the year ended December 31, 2016, loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment was RMB 6.2 million.

 

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Income (loss) before taxation.  Loss before taxation was RMB 316.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 as compared to a loss before taxation of RMB 78.3 million ($11.6 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017. The decrease in loss before taxation was mainly due to increased gross profit and a lower loss from asset devaluation for the year ended December 31, 2017.

 

Income taxes.  We incurred an income tax expense of RMB 9.7 million ($1.4 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to an income tax expense of RMB 5.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, representing an increase in tax expense of RMB 4.1 million. Our PRC statutory enterprise income tax rate was 25% for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.

 

Income (loss) attributable to shareholders.  Loss attributable to shareholders was RMB 321.8 million net for the year ended December 31, 2016 as compared to a loss attributable to shareholders of RMB 88.0  million net ($13.0 million) for year ended December 31, 2017.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The following table presents a summary of our cash flows and beginning and ending cash balances for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018:

 

RMB (‘000)   2016     2017     2018  
Net cash used in operating activities     (8,685 )     (2,046 )     (6,234 )
Net cash generated from/(used in) investing activities     44,463       (5,548 )     (1,719 )
Net cash (used in)/generated from financing activities     (33,891 )     9,537       15,448  
Net cash flow     1,887       1,943       7,495  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year     514       110       2,328  
Effect of foreign exchange rate differences     (2,291 )     275       (807 )
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year     110       2,328       9,016  

 

We have historically financed our liquidity requirements mainly through operating cash flow, bank loans and issuance of new shares. We believe that we will generate sufficient cash from operations to meet our needs for the next twelve months. 

 

Private Placement of Unregistered Equity Securities of the Company

 

On July 18, 2017, the Company completed a USD$861,000 private placement of its ordinary shares pursuant to subscription agreements (the “Subscription Agreements”) with certain accredited investors (the “Offering”) at the price of $1.36 per share, the closing price of the Company’s securities on July 17, 2017. The Company agreed to register the shares sold in the Offering for resale no later than 270 days after the closing of the Offering. All respective purchasers in the Offering were “accredited investors” (as such term is defined in Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act ), and the Company sold the securities in the Offering in reliance upon an exemption from registration contained in Section 4(2) and Rule 506 under the Securities Act. There were no discounts or brokerage fees associated with this Offering. The net proceeds of the Offering were used for working capital and general corporate purpose. On April 16, 2018, the Company filed a registration statement on Form F-3 to register its shares sold in the Offering for resale.

 

Registered Direct Offering of the Company’s Equity Securities

 

On April 19, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement (the “Agreement”) with certain individual investors relating to a registered direct offering, issuance and sale (the “Offering”) of an aggregate of 770,299 of its shares (the “Shares”), at a purchase price of $1.56 per share, the closing price of the Company’s equity securities as reported on Nasdaq on the same date. The Shares were offered pursuant to the Company’s previously filed and effective Registration Statement on Form F-3 that was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 21, 2015, subsequently amended, and declared effective October 15, 2015 (File No. 333-206516). The Company filed a prospectus supplement related to the Offering dated April 19, 2018. The gross proceeds to the Company from the Offering, before deducting the Company’s estimated offering expenses, were approximately $1.2 million. The Offering closed on April 23, 2018. Proceeds from the Offering will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes. There were no discounts or brokerage fees associated with this Offering

 

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On November 29, 2018, the Company announced and on December 4, 2018, the Company closed a public offering of its common shares (and common stock warrants) with net proceeds of RMB7,332,000 (US$1.07 million). The gross proceeds was RMB8,732,000 (US$1.27 million) and related commission and legal expense was RMB1,400,000 (US$203,600). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund inventory, distribution expenses, vendor obligations outside of the PRC, as well as for general corporate and working capital purposes.

 

In connection with the Offering, the Company issued 1,000,000 common shares at the price of $1.27 per share, with each common share coupled with a warrant (500,000 warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one common share. The common shares and the warrants were sold as units, but are immediately separable and will be issued separately. The warrants have an exercise price of $1.27 per share. The warrants will be exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the five-year anniversary of the date of issuance.

 

In connection with the Offering, the Company executed a Placement Agency Agreement, to pay the Placement Agent a cash placement fee equal to 8% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, plus road show, diligence, legal and other expenses of the Placement Agent of $45,000. The Placement Agent also receive five-year warrants to purchase up to 50,000 common shares, which such Compensation Warrants will have substantially the same terms as the warrants sold in the Offering, except that such Compensation Warrants will have an exercise price of $1.5875 per share or 125% of the public offering price and will terminate on the five year anniversary of the effective date of this offering.

 

Cash flows from operating activities.

 

Our net cash used in operating activities was RMB 6.2 million ($0.9 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018, an increase of RMB 4.2 million, or 205%, from cash outflow of RMB 2.0 million in 2017. The increase of cash outflows was mainly due decreased cash inflow from inventory by RMB 15.5 million, increased cash outflow on other receivables by RMB 14.6 million and increased cash outflow from trade payables by RMB 13.6 million, which was partly offset by decreased cash outflow on trade receivable by RMB 27.1 million, decreased cash outflow on other payables by 3.7 million, and increased operating cash inflows before working capital by RMB 8.0 million.

 

Our net cash used in operating activities was RMB 2.0 million ($0.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017, a decrease of RMB 6.7 million, or 77.0%, from cash outflow of RMB 8.7 million in 2016. The decrease of cash outflows was mainly due decreased net loss by RMB 237.9 million, increased cash inflow from  inventory by RMB 4.8 million, increased cash inflow form other receivables and tax receivables by RMB 3.5 million, decreased cash outflow on trade receivable by RMB 17.2 million, and no cash payment on income tax due to net loss, despite we had increased cash outflow for accrued liabilities and payable to related party by RMB 15.1 million. 

 

Inventory and Accounts Receivable. 

 

Our inventory turnover was 108 days for the year ended December 31, 2016 and was 95 days for the year ended December 31, 2017, and was 117 days for the years ended December 31, 2018. Based on our historical experience, except for reversal of RMB 2.7 million and RMB 56.0 million ($ 8.5 million) of inventory that was impaired for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018, respectively, we believe that the value of our current inventories is realizable.

 

The average number of days in which we received payment on our trade receivables, net of value-added tax, was decreased from 209 days in 2016 to 206 days for the year ended December 31, 2017, and was 233 days for the year ended December 31, 2018. Since the end of 2012, we had extended the collection period from 90 days to 150 days to address funding pressures of our distributors. Other customers were granted a credit period of 90 days in 2013 and 2012, and extended to 120 days beginning in 2014. This high trade receivables turnover days was primarily due to the difficult economic environment which has prompted us to offer extended credit terms to certain customers resulting in a higher trade receivables turnover figure than normal. In 2018, the Company recorded RMB 316.4 million ($47.9 million) for provision for bad debt related to the amount of outstanding trade receivables that did not conform with the Company’s credit policy.

 

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Cash flows from investing activities .

 

Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2018 was RMB1.7 million ($0.26 million), compare to RMB 5.5 million cash outflow for 2017. In the year ended December 31, 2018, we have increased in restricted cash of RMB 1.7 million. In 2017, we purchased fixed asset for RMB 5.6 million and received RMB 70,000 from disposal of two vehicles.

 

Net cash generated from (used in) investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2017 was cash outflow of RMB 5.5 million ($0.8 million), compared to RMB 44.5 million of cash inflow in 2016. We had RMB 41.7 million cash inflow from restricted cash for the year ended December 31, 2016; while in 2017, we purchased fixed asset for RMB 5.6 million and received RMB 70,000 from disposal of two vehicles.

 

Cash flows from financing activities.

 

Net cash generated from financing activities was RMB 15.4 million ($2.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2018, comparing with cash inflow of RMB 9.5 million for 2017, primarily due to the increase insurance of share capital by RMB 5.7 million in 2018.

 

Net cash generated from (used in) financing activities was RMB 9.5 million ($1.4 million) cash inflow for the year ended December 31, 2017, comparing with cash outflow of RMB 33.9 million for 2016, primarily due to the decrease of net repayment of short-term loan in 2017.

 

The major sources of our liquidity for fiscal year 2016, 2017 and 2018 were cash generated from operations, bank borrowings and issuance of our common shares. The cash generated in 2018 was primarily due to the cash generated from financing activities of shares issuance of RMB 15.3 million. The cash generated in 2017 was primarily due to the cash generated from financing activities of shares issuance of RMB 9.5 million, offset primarily by acquisition of fixed assets for RMB 5.6 million. The cash generated in 2016 was primarily due to the cash generated from investing activities of RMB 44.5 million, offset primarily by repayment of bank loans for RMB 40.1 million.

 

Cash and bank balances were RMB 9.0 million ($1.4 million) as of December 31, 2018, as compared to RMB 2.3 million as of December 31, 2017, and RMB 0.1 million as of December 31, 2016.

 

As of December 31, 2018, our total outstanding bank loan amounts were nil.

 

Operating lease commitments totaled RMB 19.7 million ($3.0 million) as of December 31, 2018.

 

Operating lease commitments totaled RMB 33.6 million ($5.1million) as of December 31, 2017.

 

There were no capital commitments as of December 31, 2018.

 

There were no commitments for advertising and insurance expenditure as of December 31, 2018.

 

There were commitments for advertising and insurance expenditure totaling RMB 1.7 million ($0.3 million) as of December 31, 2017.

 

In our opinion, our working capital, including our cash, income and cash flows from operations, and short-term borrowings, is sufficient for our present requirements.

 

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However, we may sell additional equity or obtain credit facilities to enhance our liquidity position or to increase our cash reserve for future acquisitions and capital equipment expenditures. The sale of additional equity would result in further dilution to our shareholders. The incurrence in indebtedness would result in increased fixed obligations and could result in operating covenants that would restrict our operations. We cannot provide assurance that financing will be available in amounts or on terms acceptable to us, if at all.

 

Inventory Management

 

Our inventory is comprised of raw materials, work in progress and finished goods. Raw materials are purchased from our suppliers located in Fujian, Guangdong and Jiangxi Provinces and comprise mainly of clay, coal, colorings, and glazing materials.

 

We have sufficient raw materials to support, on average, three weeks of production at any point in time. This helps to minimize any potential delays in our production process which may arise due to insufficient raw materials. Our production of ceramic tiles is based on customers’ orders. In doing so, we minimize storage space and maintain a relatively low inventory level of finished products. Our inventory turnover for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

    FY2016     FY2017     FY2018  
Inventories (RMB’000)     212,742       191,667       127,346  
Inventory turnover (days)  (1)     108       95       117  

 

(1) The average inventory turnover is computed based on the formula: (simple average opening and closing inventories balance in a financial year / cost of sales) × 365 days.

 

Write down of inventory for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was write down RMB 56.0 million in 2018, reversal of write-down RMB 2.7 million in 2017, and write-down RMB 75.1 million in 2016, and was charged to cost of sales.  

 

Credit Management

 

Credit terms to our customers

 

We typically extend credit terms of approximately 90 days to our customers. We will grant credit terms based on the reputation, creditworthiness, size of orders, payment records and number of years we have done business with the customer. We do not have a products return policy. Considering the challenging market conditions in China’s real estate industry, we extended the collection period to 150 days to address funding pressures of our distributors since the year ended December 31, 2012. Other customers were granted a credit period of 90 days in the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 and extended to 120 days in the year ended December 31, 2014. In 2018, we recorded RMB 316.4 million ($47.9 million) for provision for bad debt related to the amount of outstanding trade receivables that did not conform with the Company’s credit policy.

 

Personnel from our sales and marketing department typically conduct visits to new customers to evaluate their credit worthiness before entering into any arrangements with them. In addition, as Hengda was awarded a Top 500 Brand award, we increased the deposit required from new distributors from RMB 0.4 million to RMB 1.0 million.

 

Our average trade receivables’ turnover for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

    FY2016     FY2017     FY 2018  
Trade receivables (RMB’000)     553,542       532,361       224,114  
Trade receivables turnover (days)  (1)     209       206       233  

 

  (1) The average trade receivables’ turnover is computed based on the formula: (simple average opening and closing trade receivables balance, net of value-added tax in fiscal year / revenue) × 365 days.

 

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Credit terms from our suppliers

 

Our typical credit terms from our major suppliers are from 1 to 4 months after the raw materials have been delivered. Our average trade payables’ turnover days for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

    FY2016     FY2017     FY2018  
Trade payables (RMB’000)     84,257       61,084       24,329  
Trade payables turnover (days)  (1)     51       32       26  

 

(1) The average trade payables’ turnover is computed based on the formula: (simple average opening and closing trade payables balance, net of value-added tax in facial year / purchases) × 365 days.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Our capital expenditures primarily consist of expenditures on property, plant and equipment.

 

There were no capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2018. We had RMB 5.6 million (US$ 0.9 million) in capital expenditures attributable to the purchase of fixed assets for the year ended December 31, 2017. There were no capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

Our contractual obligations consist mainly of debt obligations, operating lease obligations and other purchase obligations and commitments, and will be paid off with our cash flow from operations. The following table sets forth a breakdown of our contractual obligations (including both interest and principal cash flows) as of December 31, 2018:

 

    Payment Due by Period  
    Total     Less than 1
year
    1-3 years     3-5
years
    More than
5 years
 
Short-term debt obligations  (1)     -       -       -       -       -  
Operating purchase obligations  (2)     19,694       13,902       5,792       -       -  
Other obligations  (3)     -       -       -       -       -  
Total     19,694       13,902       5,792       -       -  

 

  (1) Amounts represent principal and interest cash payments over the life of the bank loans, including anticipated interest payments that are not recorded in the financial statements.

 

  (2) We lease plant buildings, production factories, warehouses and employees’ hostel from non-related parties under non-cancellable operating lease arrangements.

 

  (3) Includes advertising and insurance expenditure contracted but not provided for in the financial statements.

 

Backlog

 

We typically receive orders from customers two months in advance of production on a rolling basis. We enter into a dealership agreement with customers, and a sales or purchase contract each time a customer places an order. If a customer makes any changes to an order after we have used any raw materials in fulfilling the order, the customer bears the losses. Once we have delivered the products to the customer and the customer has examined and accepted the products, we provide no quality guarantees. We confirm amounts payable with each customer on a monthly basis. The products typically must be delivered to customers within 90 days of receipt of the sales order, and the customers typically must pay for the products within 90 to 150 days of delivery.

 

As of December 31, 2018, our backlog was nil.

 

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We do not have any outstanding off-balance arrangements and have not entered into any transactions that are established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

The general annual inflation rate in China was approximately 3.0% in 2016, 2.0% in 2017, and 1.5% in 2018 according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Our results of operations may be affected by inflation, particularly rising prices for energy, labor costs, raw materials and other operating costs. See “Item 3. Key Information — Risk Factors — Risks relating to our business — If China’s inflation increases or the prices of energy or raw materials increase, we may not be able to pass the resulting increased costs to our customers and this may adversely affect our profitability or cause us to suffer operating losses.”

 

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

 

We are exposed to financial risks arising from our operations and the use of financial instruments. The key financial risks included credit risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, foreign currency risk and market price risk.

  

We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes or to hedge against fluctuations, if any, in interest rates and foreign exchange rates.

 

(i) Credit risk

 

Credit risk refers to the risk that a counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss us. Our exposure to credit risk arises primarily from bank balances and trade receivables. For trade receivables, we adopt the policy of dealing only with customers of appropriate credit history to mitigate credit risk. For other financial assets, we adopt the policy of dealing only with high credit quality counterparties.

 

As we do not hold any collateral, the maximum exposure to credit risk for each class of financial assets is the carrying amount of that class of financial assets presented on the consolidated statements of financial position.

 

Cash and bank balances

 

Our bank deposits are placed with reputable banks in the PRC, Hong Kong and the United States. The credit exposure of our cash and bank balances (including restricted cash) as of December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 were RMB 110,000, RMB 2,328,000 and RMB 10,735,000, respectively.

 

Trade receivables

 

Our objective is to seek continual growth while minimizing losses incurred due to increased credit risk exposure.

 

We have significant concentration of credit risk as the Company’s top three largest trade receivables represent approximately 22%, 29.5% and 30% of the trade receivable balance as of December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. Our five largest trade receivables represent approximately 26%, 43% and 97% of the trade receivable balance as of December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively.

 

Our exposure to credit risks is influenced mainly by the individual characteristics of each customer. We typically give the existing customers credit terms of approximately 120 days to 150 days. In deciding whether credit shall be extended, we will take into consideration factors such as the relationship with the customer, its payment history and credit worthiness. In relation to new customers, the sales and marketing department will prepare credit proposals for approval by the Chief Executive Officer.

 

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We perform ongoing credit evaluation of our customers’ financial condition and require no collateral from our customers. The provision for impairment loss for doubtful debts is based upon a review of the expected collectability of all trade and other receivables.

 

The credit exposure of our trade receivables as of December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 was RMB 553,542,000 and RMB 532,361,000, RMB 224,114,000, respectively.

 

(ii) Liquidity risk

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that we will encounter difficulty in raising funds to meet commitments associated with financial instruments. Liquidity risk may result from an inability to sell a financial asset quickly at close to its fair value.

 

Our exposure to liquidity risk arises primarily from mismatches of the maturities of financial assets and liabilities. Our objective is to maintain a balance between continuity of funding and flexibility through the use of stand-by credit facilities.

 

The table below summarizes the maturity profile of the liabilities based on contractual undiscounted payments:

 

    As of December 31, 2018  
    Within 1 year     More than 1
year but less
than3 years
    Total  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Trade payables     24,329       -       24,329  
Amounts owed to related parties     36,023       -       36,023  
Interest-bearing bank borrowings (1)     -       -       -  
Total     60,532       -       60,532  

 

(1) Includes contractual interest payments

 

We intend to ensure that there are adequate funds to meet all its obligations in a timely and cost-effective manner. We intend to maintain sufficient level of cash and cash equivalents and have available an adequate amount of committed credit facilities from financial institutions to meet our liquidity requirements in the short and longer term.

 

(iii) Interest rate risk

 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of our financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.

 

Our interest-bearing bank deposits and borrowings were nil as of December 31, 2018.

 

(iv) Foreign currency risk

 

Currency risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange rates. Currency risk arises when transactions are denominated in foreign currencies.

 

Our operations are primarily conducted in the PRC. All the sales and purchases transactions are denominated in RMB. As such, the operations are not exposed to exchange rate fluctuation.

 

As at December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018, nearly all of our monetary assets and monetary liabilities were denominated in RMB except that as of December 31, 2018, certain bank balances and other payables were denominated in US dollars.

 

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Critical Accounting Policies and Judgment

 

The preparation of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), requires us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experiences and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may materially differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

See Note 2 to our condensed consolidated interim financial statements, “Basis of Preparation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.” We believe that the following paragraphs reflect the most critical accounting policies that currently affect our financial condition and results of operations:

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted average basis, and in the case of work in progress and finished goods, comprises direct materials, direct labor and an appropriate proportion of overhead.

 

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated cost of completion and applicable selling expenses.

 

When inventories are sold, the carrying amount of those inventories is recognized as an expense in the period in which the related revenue is recognized. The amount of any write-down of inventories to net realizable value and all losses of inventories are recognized as an expense in the period the write-down or loss occurs. The amount of any reversal of any write-down of inventories is recognized as a reduction in the amount of inventories recognized as an expense in the period in which the reversal occurs.

 

Financial instruments

 

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized when a group entity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

 

Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value except for trade debtors arising from contracts with customers which are initially measured in accordance with HKFRS 15 since 1 January 2018. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets and financial liabilities (other than financial assets or liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) are added to or deducted from the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are recognized immediately in profit or loss.

 

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or financial liability and of allocating interest income and interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts and payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset or financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.

 

Interest income which are derived from the Company’s ordinary course of business are presented as revenue.

 

Financial assets

 

Classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets (upon application of IFRS 9)

 

Financial assets that meet the following conditions are subsequently measured at amortized cost:

 

·        the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows; and

 

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·        the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

 

All other financial assets are subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”).

 

A financial asset is classified as held for trading if:

 

·        it has been acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term; or

 

·        on initial recognition it is a part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Company manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or

 

·        it is a derivative that is not designated and effective as a hedging instrument.

 

In addition, the Company may irrevocably designate a financial asset that are required to be measured at the amortized cost as measured at FVTPL if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch.

 

(i)       Amortized cost and interest income

 

Interest income is recognized using the effective interest method for financial assets measured subsequently at amortized cost. Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset, except for financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired. For financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the financial asset from the next reporting period. If the credit risk on the credit-impaired financial instrument improves so that the financial asset is no longer credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset from the beginning of the reporting period following the determination that the asset is no longer credit impaired.

 

(ii)       Financial assets at FVTPL

 

Financial assets that do not meet the criteria for being measured at amortized cost are measured at FVTPL.

 

Financial assets at FVTPL are measured at fair value at the end of each reporting period, with any fair value gains or losses recognized in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss includes any dividend or interest earned on the financial asset and is included in the “other gains and losses” line item.

 

Impairment of financial assets (upon application IFRS 9)

 

The Company recognizes a loss allowance for expected credit loss (“ECL”) on financial assets which are subject to impairment under IFRS 9 (including trade and other reeivables, bank deposits and bank balances). ECLs are based on the difference between the contractual cash flows due in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the Company expects to receive, discounted at an approximation of the original effective interest rate. The expected cash flows will include cash flows from the sale of collateral held or other credit enhancements that are integral to the contractual terms. The amount of ECL is updated at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition.

 

General approach

 

ECLs are recognized in two measurement bases. For credit exposures for which there has not been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, ECLs are provided for credit losses that result from default events that are possible within the next 12-months (a 12-month ECL). For those credit exposures for which there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, a loss allowance is required for credit losses expected over the remaining life of the exposure, irrespective of the timing of the default (a lifetime ECL).

 

At each reporting date, the Company assesses whether the credit risk on a financial instrument has increased significantly since initial recognition. When making the assessment, the Company compares the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the reporting date with the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the date of initial recognition and considers reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort, including historical and forwardlooking information.

 

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The Company considers a financial asset in default when contractual payments are 90 days past due. However, in certain cases, the Company may also consider a financial asset to be in default when internal or external information indicates that the Company is unlikely to receive the outstanding contractual amounts in full before taking into account any credit enhancements held by the Company. A financial asset is written off when there is no reasonable expectation of recovering the contractual cash flows.

 

Financial assets at amortized cost are subject to impairment under the general approach and they are classified within the following stages for measurement of ECLs except for trade receivables which apply the simplified approach as detailed below.

 

Stage 1 — Financial instruments for which credit risk has not increased significantly since initial recognition and for which the loss allowance is measured at an amount equal to 12-month ECLs

 

Stage 2 — Financial instruments for which credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition but that are not credit-impaired financial assets and for which the loss allowance is measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs

 

Stage 3 — Financial assets that are credit-impaired at the reporting date (but that are not purchased or originated credit-impaired) and for which the loss allowance is measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs

 

Simplified approach

 

For trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component or when the Company applies the practical expedient of not adjusting the effect of a significant financing component, the Company applies the simplified approach in calculating ECLs. Under the simplified approach, the Company does not track changes in credit risk, but instead recognizes a loss allowance based on lifetime ECLs at each reporting date.

 

The Company assesses at the end of each reporting period whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired. An impairment exists if one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset have an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the Company of financial assets that can be reliably estimated. Evidence of impairment may include indications that a debtor or a group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation and observable data indicating that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults.

 

Financial assets carried at amortized cost

 

For financial assets carried at amortized cost, the Company first assesses whether impairment exists individually for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively for financial assets that are not individually significant. If the Company determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assesses them for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is, or continues to be, recognized are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.

 

The amount of any impairment loss identified is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred). The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate (i.e., the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition).

 

The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the loss is recognized in profit or loss. Interest income continues to be accrued on the reduced carrying amount using the rate of interest used to discount the future cash flows for the purpose of measuring the impairment loss. Loans and receivables together with any associated allowance are written off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery and all collateral has been realised or has been transferred to the Company.

 

If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the estimated impairment loss increases or decreases because of an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is increased or reduced by adjusting the allowance account. If a write-off is later recovered, the recovery is credited to other expenses in the statement of profit or loss.

 

Classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets (before application of IFRS 9 on January 1, 2018)

 

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The Company’s financial assets are loans and receivables. The classification depends on the nature and purpose of the financial assets and is determined at the time of initial recognition.

 

Loans and receivables

 

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are initially recognized at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition, loans and receivables (including trade and other receivables, pledged bank deposits, fixed bank deposits with maturity periods over three months and bank balances) are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any identified impairment losses).

 

Impairment of financial assets

 

Financial assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at the end of each reporting period. Financial assets are considered to be impaired when there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows of the financial assets have been affected.

 

Objective evidence of impairment could include:

 

·        significant financial difficulty of the issuer or counterparty; or

 

·        breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in interest or principal payments; or

 

·        it becoming probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or financial re-organisation; or disappearance of an active market for that financial asset because of financial difficulties.

 

If any such evidence exists, the impairment loss on trade receivables and other current receivables and other financial assets carried at amortized cost is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate (i.e. the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition of these assets), where the effect of discounting is material. This assessment is made collectively where these financial assets share similar risk characteristics, such as similar past due status, and have not been individually assessed as impaired. Future cash flows for financial assets which are assessed for impairment collectively are based on historical loss experience for assets with credit risk characteristics similar to the collective group.

 

If in a subsequent period the amount of an impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be linked objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized, the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss. A reversal of an impairment loss shall not result in the asset’s carrying amount exceeding that which would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years.

 

Impairment losses are written off against the corresponding assets directly, except for impairment losses recognized in respect of trade receivables included within trade and other receivables and prepayments, whose recovery is considered doubtful but not remote. In this case, the impairment losses for doubtful debts are recorded using an allowance account. When the Company is satisfied that recovery is remote, the amount considered irrecoverable is written off against trade debtors directly and any amounts held in the allowance account relating to that debt are reversed. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously charged to the allowance account are reversed against the allowance account. Other changes in the allowance account and subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off directly are recognized in profit or loss.

 

Derecognition of financial assets

 

The Company derecognizes a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or when it transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity. If the Company neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership and continues to control the transferred asset, the Company recognizes its retained interest in the asset and an associated liability for amounts it may have to pay. If the Company retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred financial asset, the Company continues to recognize the financial asset and recognizes a collateralized borrowing for the proceeds received.

 

On derecognition of a financial asset measured at amortized cost, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognized in profit or loss.

 

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Financial liabilities and equity instruments

 

Debt and equity instruments issued by a group entity are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangements and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument.

 

Equity instruments

 

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Company after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognized at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

 

Effective interest method

 

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.

 

Interest expense is recognized on an effective interest basis.

 

Financial liabilities

 

Interest-bearing borrowings are recognized initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. They are subsequently stated at amortized cost with any difference between the amount initially recognized and redemption value being recognized in profit or loss over the period of the borrowings, together with any interest and fees payable, using the effective interest method.

 

Trade and other payables are initially recognized at fair value. Theys are subsequently stated at amortized cost unless the effect of discounting would be immaterial, in which case they are stated at cost.

 

Derecognition

 

The Company derecognizes a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire.

 

On derecognition of a financial asset in its entirety, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable and the cumulative gain or loss that had been recognized in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity is recognized in profit or loss.

 

The Company derecognizes a financial liability when, and only when, the Company’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or expire. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable is recognized in profit or loss.  

  

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Derivative financial instruments

 

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

 

We use derivative financial instruments, such as forward currency contracts, for investment purposes. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

 

Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are taken directly to profit or loss.

 

Leases

 

Financial leases refers to the situation that the economic ownership of a leased asset is transferred to the lessee if the lessee bears substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the leased asset.

 

All other leases are treated as operating leases. Where we have the right to use of assets held under operating leases, payments made under the leases are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the lease terms except where an alternative basis is more representative of the time pattern of benefits to be derived from the leased assets. Lease incentives received are recognized in profit or loss as an integral part of the aggregate net lease payments made. Contingent rentals are charged to profit or loss in the accounting period in which they are incurred.

 

All of our leases are operating leases for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

 

Revenue recognition

 

Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of goods, net of rebates and discounts. We paid rebates to some distributors on their annual cash collections in 2012 and 2011. No such rebates were paid to distributors since year 2013. Provided it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to us and the revenue and costs, if applicable, can be measured reliably, revenue is recognized as follows:

 

· Sales of goods are recognized upon transfer of the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the customer. This is usually taken as the time when the goods are delivered and the customer has accepted the goods. Once goods are accepted by a customer, there is no continuing management involvement with the goods and we do not have the obligation to accept the return of the goods to us from the customer.

 

· Interest income is recognized on a time-proportion basis using the effective interest method.

 

Impairment of non-financial assets

 

Impairment testing is made on our goodwill at each reporting date. Property, plant and equipment and land use rights are tested for impairment if there is any indication that the assets may be impaired at the balance sheet date.

 

If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, we estimate the asset’s recoverable amount. 

 

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Calculation of recoverable amount

 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the greater of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. Where an asset does not generate cash inflows largely independent of those from other assets, the recoverable amount is determined for the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows independently (i.e. a cash-generating unit).

 

Recognition of impairment losses

 

An impairment loss is recognized in profit or loss whenever the carrying amount of an asset, or the cash-generating unit to which it belongs, exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses recognized in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to that cash-generating unit (or group of units), and then, to reduce on a pro rata basis the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (or group of units), except that the carrying amount of an asset will not be reduced below its individual fair value less costs of disposal (if measurable) or value in use (if determinable).

 

Reversal of impairment losses

 

In respect of assets other than goodwill, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a favorable change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed.

 

A reversal of an impairment loss is limited to the asset’s carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years. Reversals of impairment losses are credited to profit or loss in the year in which the reversals are recognized.

 

Share-based employee remuneration

 

We operate equity-settled share-based remuneration plans for its employees. None of our plans feature any options for a cash settlement.

 

The fair value of share options granted to employees is recognized as an employee cost with a corresponding increase in the share-based payment reserve within equity. The fair value is measured at the grant date using the Black Scholes Option Pricing Model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. Where the employees have to meet vesting conditions before becoming unconditionally entitled to the share options, the total estimated fair value of the share options is spread over the vesting period, taking into account the probability that the options will vest.

 

During the vesting period, the number of share options expected to vest is reviewed. Any resulting adjustment to the cumulative fair value recognized in prior years is charged/credited to the profit or loss for the year under review, unless the original employee expenses qualify for recognition as an asset, with a corresponding adjustment to the share-based payment reserve. On the vesting date, the amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of share options that vest (with a corresponding adjustment to the share-based payment reserve) except where forfeiture is only due to not achieving vesting conditions that relate to the market price of our shares. The equity amount is recognized in the share-based payment reserve until either the option is exercised (when it is transferred to the share premium account) or the option expires (when it is released directly to retained earnings).

 

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Accounting for income taxes

 

Income tax comprises current tax and deferred tax.

 

Current tax and movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized in profit or loss except to the extent that they relate to items recognized in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case the relevant amounts of tax are recognized in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

 

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

 

Deferred tax is calculated using the liability method on temporary differences at the reporting date between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, tax losses available to be carried forward as well as other unused tax credits, to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit, including existing taxable temporary differences, will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, unused tax losses and unused tax credits can be utilized.

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary difference arises from goodwill or from initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither taxable nor accounting profit or loss.

 

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures, except where we are able to control the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

Deferred tax is calculated, without discounting, at tax rates that are expected to apply in the period the liability is settled or the asset realized, based on tax rate (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.

 

The carrying amount of a deferred tax asset is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and is reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow the related tax benefit to be utilized. Any such reduction is reversed to the extent that it becomes probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available. 

 

Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognized when the liability to pay the related dividends is recognized.

 

Current tax assets and current tax liabilities are presented in net if we have the legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts and the following additional conditions are met:

 

  a) in the case of current tax assets and liabilities, we intend either to settle on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously; or

 

  b) in the case of deferred tax assets and liabilities, if they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either:

 

  (i) the same taxable entity; or

 

  (ii) different taxable entities, which, in each future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are expected to be settled or recovered, intend either to settle current tax liabilities and realize the current tax assets on a net basis, or to settle the liabilities and realize the assets simultaneously.

 

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Critical accounting estimates and assumptions

 

We make estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The key sources of estimation uncertainty and key assumptions concerning the future at the end of the reporting period, that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below:

 

Useful lives and impairment assessment of property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and identified impairment losses. The estimation of useful lives impacts the level of annual depreciation expenses recorded. Property, plant and equipment are evaluated for possible impairment on a specific asset basis or in groups of similar assets, as applicable. This process requires management’s estimate of future cash flows generated by each asset or group of assets. For any instance where this evaluation process indicates impairment, the relevant asset’s carrying amount is written down to the recoverable amount and the amount of the write-down is charged against profit or loss.  

 

Useful lives and impairment assessment of investment property

 

Investment properties are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and identified impairment losses. The estimation of useful lives impacts the level of annual depreciation expenses recorded. Investment properties are evaluated for possible impairment on a specific asset basis or in groups of similar assets, as applicable. This process requires management’s estimate of future cash flows generated by each asset or group of assets. For any instance where this evaluation process indicates impairment, the relevant asset’s carrying amount is written down to the recoverable amount and the amount of the write-down is charged against profit or loss.

 

Impairment loss recognized in respect of property, plant and equipment

 

As of December 31, 2018, the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment was approximately RMB 46,000 (2017: RMB87,316,000). An impairment loss of approximately RMB75,906,000 recognized against the original carrying amount of property, plant and equipment in 2017. The impairment loss recognized for the year ended December 31, 2017 was RMB33,653,000 and RMB209,919,000 for year 2016. Determining whether property, plant and equipment are impaired requires an estimation of the recoverable amount of the property, plant and equipment. Such estimation was based on certain assumptions, which are subject to uncertainty and might materially differ from the actual results.

 

Impairment loss recognized in respect of investment property

 

As of December 31, 2018, the carrying amount of investment property was nil, (2017: RMB4,994,000). An impairment loss of approximately RMB4,858,000 recognized against the original carrying amount of investment property in 2018. The impairment loss recognized for the year ended December 31, 2017 was RMB1,617,000 and RMB10,920,000 for year 2016. Determining whether investment property is impaired requires an estimation of the recoverable amount of the investment property. Such estimation was based on certain assumptions, which are subject to uncertainty and might materially differ from the actual results.

 

Impairment loss recognized in respect of land use rights

 

As of December 31, 2018, the carrying amount of land use rights was nil, (2017: RMB4,364,000). An impairment loss of approximately RMB4,257,000 was recognized against the original carrying amount of land use rights in 2018. The impairment loss recognized for the year ended December 31, 2017 was RMB1,413,000 and RMB9,520,000 for year 2016. Determining whether land use rights are impaired requires an estimation of the recoverable amount of the land use rights. Such estimation was based on certain assumptions, which are subject to uncertainty and might materially differ from the actual results.

 

Income tax

 

The Company has exposure to income taxes in the PRC. Significant judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes. There are certain transactions and computations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. The Company recognizes liabilities for expected tax issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. When the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recognized, such differences will impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

 

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Impairment of trade receivables

 

The Company’s management assesses the collectability of trade receivables. This estimate is based on the credit history of the Company’s customers and the current market conditions. Management assesses the collectability of trade receivables at the balance sheet dates and makes the provision, if any. The identification of doubtful debts requires the use of judgment and estimates. Judgment is required in assessing the ultimate realization of these receivables, including the current credit worthiness, past collection history of each customer and on-going dealings with them. Where the expectation is different from the original estimate, such difference will impact the carrying value of trade and other receivables and doubtful debts expenses in the period in which such estimate has been changed.

 

Net realizable value of inventories

 

Net realizable value of inventories is the management’s estimation of future selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and selling expenses. These estimates are based on the current market condition and the historical experience of selling products of a similar nature. It could change significantly as a result of various market factors.

 

Share-based payment transaction

 

The Company measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with employees by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. Estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions requires determining the most appropriate valuation model, which is dependent on the terms and conditions of the grant. This estimate also requires determining the most appropriate inputs to the valuation model including the expected life of the stock option, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about them. 

 

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ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

 

  A. Directors and senior management

 

Our current directors and executive officers are:

 

Name   Age   Position
Huang Jia Dong   61   Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Hen Man Edmund   46   Chief Financial Officer
Liu Jun (1)(2)(3)   50   Director
Roy Tan Choon Kang (1)(2)(3)(4)   47   Director
Shen Cheng Liang (1)(2)(3)   63   Director
Alex Ng Man Shek   49   Director and Corporate Secretary

 

  (1) Member of audit committee

  (2) Member of compensation committee

  (3) Member of nominations committee

  (4) Audit committee financial expert

 

Huang Jia Dong founded Hengda in 1993 and has served as our director since November 20, 2009 and Chief Executive Officer since April 4, 2010. Mr. Huang was Chairman of the Board from November 20, 2009 until April 4, 2010. Mr. Huang currently serves as Chairman of Hengda. Mr. Huang was previously involved in the construction material distribution business. Mr. Huang has been appointed as the vice chairman of Fujian Province Ceramic Industry Association since 2006 and the executive director of Jinjiang City Chamber of Import and Export Trade since 2007. Mr. Huang has a diploma in corporate management from Xiamen University. We have chosen Mr. Huang to serve as director because of his extensive experience in the ceramic tiles industry and his intimate knowledge of our company.

 

Hen Man Edmund has served as our Chief Financial Officer since November 20, 2009. Mr. Hen joined Hengda in 2008 as the Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Hen is responsible for the corporate finance function and oversees matters relating to compliance and reporting obligation of our company. Prior to joining Hengda, Mr. Hen was a Financial Controller of a switchgear manufacturer in Sichuan Province, PRC and was responsible for the corporate finance function of the company. Prior to that, Mr. Hen was the accountant of Dickson Concepts (International) Ltd., a public listed company in Hong Kong and oversaw the accounting and financial administration of the company. He also worked at a variety of international accountancy firms, including Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, in assurance and advisory services during the period from 1995 to 2001. Mr. Hen graduated from the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom, with a Bachelor Degree in Science in 1995. He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a member of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

 

Liu Jun holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Dongbei University of Finance and Economics in China (1990). Mr. Liu’s expertise is in the area of acquisitions, strategic planning and deal structuring. Presently, he serves as a consultant and advisor on various mergers and risk management matters to several companies in the financial industry in China. In addition, Mr. Liu holds the position of a senior manager of Dashang Group Co., Ltd., a large retail chain group in northeast China.

  

Roy Tan Choon Kang commenced his career at the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC) in 1996 at the Economics & Strategy Department handling GIC’s equity and fixed income investments in North America and Latin America. From February 1, 2009 to December 31, 2016, Mr. Tan held the title of Managing Partner of One Tree Partners PTE Ltd., an asset management company. From November 2016 to July 31, 2017, Mr. Tan held the office of the CFO of Fuse Enterprises Inc., a digital marketing and mining company. Mr. Tan holds a joint MBA degree from National University of Singapore and Columbia University, NY (1999).

 

Shen Cheng Liang has been our director since November 1, 2013. Mr. Shen Cheng Liang is a ceramics production expert with over 30 years of experience in the ceramics industry in China. Prior to his retirement from the industry in 2012, he was a senior production engineer and general manager at Fujian Yiyan Ceramics Ltd. where he worked from 1983 to 2012. Mr. Liang graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in material physics from Jingdezhen Ceramics College in 1983. We have chosen Mr. Liang to serve as director because of his experience in our industry.

 

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Alex Ng Man Shek has been served as the position of corporate secretary of Nova Lifestyle Inc. (NASDAQ: NVFY) from June 2011 to October 2016 and the chief operating officer of a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nova Lifestyle Inc. in Dongguan, the PRC since 2003. He worked in various companies in Hong Kong, Canada and the PRC. Mr. Ng received his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from York University, Canada in 1994. He has also received a Certificate in Securities Course, a Certificate in Technical Analysis Course and a Certificate in Derivatives Course from The Canadian Securities Institute during the period from 1998 to 2002. There is no arrangement or understanding between Mr. Ng and any other persons pursuant to which he was appointed as discussed above. Nor are there any family relationships between Mr. Ng and any executive officers and directors. 

 

There are no family relationships among our directors or officers.

 

The business address of each party described above is c/o Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd., Junbing Industrial Zone, Anhai, Jinjiang City, Fujian Province, People’s Republic of China.

 

  B. Compensation

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

 

No member of our compensation committee has at any time been our officer or employee, or our subsidiaries. No interlocking relationship exists between our board of directors or compensation committee and the board of directors or compensation committee of any other company, nor has any interlocking relationship existed in the past.

 

During the last fiscal year, none of our officers and employees, and none of our former officers participated in deliberations of our Board of Directors concerning executive officer compensation.

 

Director Compensation

 

Starting April 1, 2010, our Board determined to provide its non-employee members annual compensation of $40,000.

 

The following table sets forth all of the compensation paid by us or our significant subsidiaries in 2018 to each of our non-employee directors for such person’s service as a director (including contingent or deferred compensation accrued during 2018):

 

Name and Principal Position   Compensation
RMB
    Value of
Options(1)
RMB
    Total RMB  
Liu Jun     264,320       -       264,320  
Roy Tan Choon Kang     297,360       -       297,360  
Shen Cheng Liang     252,000               252,000  
Alex Ng Man Shek     855,867       -       855,867  

 

Executive Officers

 

The following table sets forth all of the compensation paid by us or our significant subsidiaries in 2017 to each of our officers for such person’s service as an officer (including contingent or deferred compensation accrued during 2018 but not including any amounts paid to such persons for their services as directors):

 

    Salary     Bonus    

Value of

Stock Compensation(2)

    Total  
Name and Principal Position   RMB     RMB     RMB     RMB  
Huang Jia Dong, Chief Executive Office     -       -       -       -  
Hen Man Edmund, Chief Financial Officer    

614,334

      -      

618,795

     

1,233,129

 

 

  (1) No options were granted to our executives in 2018.
  (2) Stock Compensation were granted to our Chief Financial Officer in 2017 and 2018 .

 

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Retirement Benefits

 

As of December 31, 2018, we have contributed to the government-mandated employee welfare and retirement benefit plan and provided pension, retirement or similar benefits to its employees. The PRC regulations require us to pay the local labor administration bureau a monthly contribution at a stated contribution rate based on the monthly basic compensation of qualified employees. The local labor administration bureau, which manages various investment funds, will take care of employee retirement, medical and other fringe benefits. We have no further commitments beyond our monthly contribution.

 

Employment Agreements

 

Upon consummation of the acquisition of Success Winner, we entered into employment agreements with certain of our executive officers. The following discussion summarizes the material terms of employment agreements entered into between us and our executive officers:

 

We entered into employment agreements with the following officers: Huang Jia Dong, Chief Executive Officer, Hen Man Edmund, Chief Financial Officer, and Alex Ng Man Shek, Corporate Secretary.

 

  · The term of the employment agreements is three years (February 1, 2019 to January 31, 2022 for Huang Jia Dong), one year ( July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019 for Hen Man Edmund and Alex Ng Man Shek).

 

  · Since August 1, 2013, Huang Jia Dong received compensation of RMB 12,000 per month. From July 1, 2017, Hen Man Edmund received compensation of RMB 50,715 (HKD58,500) per month. From July 1, 2017, Alex Ng Man Shek received compensation of RMB 69,354 (HKD80,000) per month. Alex became our director starting from October 2017.

 

  · We may dismiss any of the above officers if any of the following events occurs with respect to the officer: (1) failure to show up for work, (2) failure to provide required documents, (3) falsification of documents, criminal record, etc., (4) serious violation of such officers’ labor rules and of regulations, (5) serious lapse of duties and responsibilities, (6) activities that violate regulations, resulting in loss of more than RMB 4,000, (7) operation of his own business during the term of his employment, (8) criminal prosecution and labor punishment, (9) request by the officer to resign, (10) causing us to sign or change any contract through fraud, coercion and other fraudulent means, or (11) other situations stipulated by law and statutes.

 

  · Each officer is subject to the non-compete provisions of the agreement for a period of three years following termination of the employment agreement and non-solicitation provisions of the agreement for a period of two years following termination of the employment agreement.

 

Other Employees

 

Compensation for our senior executives is comprised of four elements: a base salary, an annual performance bonus, equity and benefits.

 

In developing salary ranges, potential bonus payouts, equity awards and benefit plans, it is anticipated that our compensation committee takes into account: 1) competitive compensation among comparable companies and for similar positions in the market, 2) relevant ways to incentivize and reward senior management for improving shareholder value while building a successful company, 3) individual performance, 4) how best to retain key executives, 5) the overall performance of us and our various key component entities, 6) our ability to pay and 7) other factors deemed to be relevant at the time.

 

Our senior management have discussed our above mentioned planned process for executive compensation and the four compensation components. Specific compensation plans for our key executives are negotiated and established by our compensation committee.

 

We have not entered into any service contracts with any of our officers, directors or employees that contain any provisions for benefits upon termination of employment.

 

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China Ceramics Co., Ltd. 2010 Incentive Compensation Plan

 

On December 27, 2010, our shareholders approved the 2010 Incentive Plan. The purpose of the 2010 Incentive Plan is to assist us and our subsidiaries in attracting, motivating, retaining and rewarding high-quality executives and other employees, officers, directors, and independent contractors by enabling such persons to acquire or increase a proprietary interest in us in order to strengthen the mutuality of interests between such persons and our shareholders, and providing such persons with annual and long-term performance incentives to expand their maximum efforts in the creation of shareholder value.  Awards under the 2010 Incentive Plan will be limited in the aggregate to 1,200,000 shares. The 2010 Incentive Plan shall terminate at such time as no shares remain available for issuance under the 2010 Incentive Plan, when we have no further obligations with respect to outstanding awards under the 2010 Incentive Plan. As of December 31, 2016, no stock options under the 2010 Incentive Plan have been granted.

 

Administration . The 2010 Incentive Plan is administered by a committee (the “Committee”) designated by our board of directors (the “Board”), which shall consist of at least two directors, each of whom is (i) a “non-employee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act and (ii) an “outside director” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time, including regulations thereunder and successor provisions and regulations thereto (the “Code”); provided, however, that except as otherwise expressly provided in the 2010 Incentive Plan or in order to comply with Code Section 162(m) or Rule 13b-3 under the Exchange Act, the Board may exercise any power or authority granted to the Committee under the 2010 Incentive Plan. Among other things, the Committee has complete discretion, subject to the express limits of the 2010 Incentive Plan, to determine the officers, directors, employees and independent contractors to be granted an award, the type of award to be granted, the number of shares subject to each award, the terms and conditions of each award, the exercise price of each award which is a stock option (“Option”) and the base price of each award which is a stock appreciation right (“SAR”), the term of each award, the vesting schedule for an award, whether to accelerate award vesting, the value of the Shares underlying an award, and the required withholdings, if any. The Committee is also authorized to construe the award agreements, and may prescribe rules relating to the 2010 Incentive Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Committee nor the Board has any authority to grant or modify an award under the 2010 Incentive Plan with terms or conditions that would cause the award to be considered nonqualified “deferred compensation” subject to Code Section 409A.

 

Grant of Awards; Shares Available for Awards . The 2010 Incentive Plan provides for the grant of Options (both incentive stock options and non-incentive stock options), SARs (including limited SARs), restricted stock, deferred stock, stock granted as a bonus or in lieu of another award, dividend equivalents, bonus stock, awards in lieu of obligations, and performance or annual incentive awards (each an “award”) to our executive officers, directors and employees, and independent contractors (each a “participant”) (however, solely employees are eligible for awards which are incentive stock options). We have reserved a total of 1,200,000 shares for issuance as or under awards to be made under the 2010 Incentive Plan.  If any award lapses, expires, is cancelled, or terminates unexercised or ceases to be exercisable for any reason, the number of shares subject thereto is again available for grant under the 2010 Incentive Plan. The number of shares for which awards which are Options, SARs, performance awards or annual incentive awards may be granted to a participant under the 2010 Incentive Plan in any fiscal year is limited to 350,000.

 

The number of awards to be granted to officers, directors, employees and consultants cannot be determined at this time as the grant of awards is dependent upon various factors such as hiring requirements and job performance.

 

Options . The exercise price per share purchasable under an Option shall be determined by the Committee or the Board, provided that such per share exercise price shall not be less than 100% of the fair market value of a share on the date of grant of the Option and shall not, in any event, be less than the par value of a share on the date of grant of such option. The Committee or the Board shall determine the time or times at which or the circumstances under which an Option may be exercised in whole or in part, the time or times at which Options shall cease to be or become exercisable following termination of employment or upon other conditions, the methods by which such exercise price may be paid or deemed to be paid, the form of such payment, and the methods by or forms in which shares will be delivered or deemed to be delivered to participants who exercise Options.

 

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Options which are incentive stock options (“ISOs”) granted under the 2010 Incentive Plan shall comply in all respects with Code Section 422. In the case of ISOs, if an employee owns or is deemed to own (by reason of the attribution rules applicable under Code Section 424(d)) more than 10% of the combined voting power of all classes of our shares or the shares of any parent or subsidiary (a “ten percent shareholder”) and an ISO is granted to such employee, the per share exercise price under such ISO (to the extent required by the Code at the time of grant) shall be no less than 110% of the fair market value of a share on the date such ISO is granted. The term of an ISO may not exceed 10 years (5 years in the case of an ISO granted to a ten percent shareholder). ISOs may be granted to solely employees. In addition, the aggregate fair market value of the shares subject to an ISO (determined at the time of grant) which are exercisable for the first time by an employee during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000.

 

Stock Appreciation Rights . A SAR provides the participant to whom it is granted the right to receive, upon its exercise, the excess of (A) the fair market value of the number of shares subject to the SAR on the date of exercise (or, in the case of a “Limited SAR” (as defined in the 2010 Incentive Plan) which may be exercised only in the event of a “change in control” (as defined in the 2010 Incentive Plan), the fair market value determined by reference to the change in control price, as defined in the 2010 Incentive Plan), over (B) the product of the number of shares subject to the SAR multiplied by the grant price under the SAR, as determined by the Committee or the Board. The per share grant price of a SAR shall not be less than the fair market value of a share on the date of grant.

 

Restricted Stock Awards . A restricted stock award is a grant or sale of shares to the participant, subject to such restrictions on transferability, risk of forfeiture and other restrictions, if any, as the Committee or the Board may impose, which restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, under such circumstances (including based on achievement of performance goals and/or future service requirements), in such installments or otherwise, as the Committee or the Board may determine at the date of grant or purchase or thereafter. Except to the extent restricted under the terms of the 2010 Incentive Plan and any agreement relating to the restricted stock award, a participant who is granted or has purchased restricted stock shall have all of the rights of a shareholder, including the right to vote the restricted stock and the right to receive dividends thereon (subject to any mandatory reinvestment or other requirement imposed by the Committee or the Board). During the restricted period applicable to the restricted stock, subject to certain exceptions, the restricted stock may not be sold, transferred, pledged, hypothecated, margined or otherwise encumbered by the participant.

 

Deferred Stock . A deferred stock award is a right to receive shares, cash, or a combination thereof at the end of a specified deferral period, subject to certain terms and conditions, and in compliance with Code Section 409A. Payment under an award of deferred stock shall occur upon expiration of the deferral period specified for such deferred stock award by the Committee or the Board (or, if permitted by the Committee or the Board, as elected by the participant). In addition, deferred stock awards shall be subject to such restrictions (which may include a risk of forfeiture) as the Committee or the Board may impose, if any, which restrictions may lapse at the expiration of the deferral period or at earlier specified times (including based on achievement of performance goals and/or future service requirements), separately or in combination, in installments or otherwise, as the Committee or the Board may determine. Payments under deferred stock awards may be by delivery of Shares, cash equal to the fair market value of the specified number of shares covered by the deferred stock award, or a combination thereof, as determined by the Committee or the Board at the date of grant or thereafter. Prior to the end of the specified deferral period for a deferred stock award, the award carries no voting or dividend or other rights associated with share ownership.

 

Bonus Shares and Awards in Lieu of Obligations . The Committee and the Board are each authorized to grant shares as a bonus, or to grant shares or other awards in lieu of our obligations to pay cash or deliver other property under the 2010 Incentive Plan or under other plans or compensatory arrangements, provided that, in the case of participants subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act, the amount of such grants remains within the discretion of the Committee to the extent necessary to ensure that acquisitions of shares or other awards are exempt from liability under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act. These bonus shares or awards granted under the 2010 Incentive Plan shall be subject to such other terms as shall be determined by the Committee or the Board.

 

Dividend Equivalents . The Committee and the Board are each authorized to grant dividend equivalents to a participant, entitling the participant to receive cash, shares, other awards, or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of Shares, or other periodic payments. Dividend equivalents may be awarded on a free-standing basis or in connection with another award. The Committee or the Board may provide that dividend equivalents shall be paid or distributed when accrued or shall be deemed to have been reinvested in additional shares, awards, or other investment vehicles, and subject to such restrictions on transferability and risks of forfeiture, as the Committee or the Board may specify.

 

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Other Stock-Based Awards . The Committee and the Board are each authorized, subject to limitations under applicable law, to grant to participants such other awards that may be denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or related to, shares, as deemed by the Committee or the Board to be consistent with the purposes of the 2010 Incentive Plan, including, without limitation, convertible or exchangeable debt securities, other rights convertible or exchangeable into shares, purchase rights for shares, awards with value and payment contingent upon our performance or any other factors designated by the Committee or the Board, and awards valued by reference to the book value of shares or the value of securities of or the performance of our specified subsidiaries or business units.

 

Performance and Annual Incentive Awards .  The Committee and the Board (except for such awards to be made to participants who are “covered employees” for purposes of Code Section 162(m), which awards must be made by the Committee) are each authorized to grant (i) performance awards, under which participants will receive cash payments, shares or other awards upon the satisfaction of pre-specified (generally, other than annual) performance criteria, and (ii) annual incentive awards, under which participants will receive cash payments, shares or other awards upon the satisfaction of pre-specified annual performance criteria.  The performance criteria which may be used for performance awards or annual incentive awards made to participants who are “covered employees” for purposes of Code Section 162(m) may solely include, for us, on a consolidated basis and/or our specified subsidiaries or business units (except with respect to total shareholder return and earnings per share criteria) - total shareholder return; total shareholder return as compared to total return (on a comparable basis) of a publicly available index such as, but not limited to, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index or the S&P Specialty Retailer Index; net income; pretax earnings; earnings before interest expense, taxes, depreciation and amortization; pretax operating earnings after interest expense and before bonuses, service fees, and extraordinary or special items; operating margin; earnings per share; return on equity; return on capital; return on investment; operating earnings; working capital or inventory; and ratio of debt to shareholders’ equity.

 

Change in Control Provisions . In the event of a change in control (as defined in the 2010 Incentive Plan), (i) any award subject to vesting and exercisability requirements that was not previously vested and exercisable shall become fully vested and exercisable as of the occurrence of the change in control, subject to certain restrictions; (ii) Limited SARs (and other SARs if so provided by their terms) shall become exercisable for amounts, in cash, determined by reference to the change in control price; (iii) the restrictions, deferral of settlement, and forfeiture conditions applicable to any other award shall lapse and such awards shall be deemed fully vested as of the occurrence of the change in control, except to the extent of any waiver by the participant and subject to certain restrictions; (iv) with respect to any outstanding award subject to achievement of performance goals and conditions under the 2010 Incentive Plan, such performance goals and other conditions will be deemed to be met if and to the extent so provided by the Committee in the award agreement relating to such award; (v) the Board may in its sole and absolute discretion, provide on a case by case basis that Options shall terminate, provided however, that a participant holding a terminating Option shall have the right, immediately prior to the occurrence of such change in control and during such period as the Board in its sole discretion shall determine and designate, to exercise that Option, to the extent exercisable, in whole or in part; and (vi) the Board may in its sole and absolute discretion, provide on a case by case basis that any award entitled to be settled in shares shall instead be entitled to be settled, during such period as the Board in its sole discretion shall determine and designate, by means of a cash payment equal to the fair market value of such award immediately prior to the occurrence of such change in control, as determined in good faith by the Board.

 

Amendment and Termination . The Board may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate the 2010 Incentive Plan, or the Committee’s authority to grant awards under the 2010 Incentive Plan, without the consent of shareholders or participants, except that any amendment or alteration to the 2010 Incentive Plan shall be subject to the approval of the Company’s shareholders not later than the annual meeting next following such Board action if such shareholder approval is required by any federal or state law or regulation (including, without limitation, Rule 16b-3 or Code Section 162(m)) or the rules of any stock exchange or automated quotation system on which the Shares may then be listed or quoted, and the Board may otherwise, in its discretion, determine to submit other such changes to the 2010 Incentive Plan to shareholders for approval; provided that, without the consent of an affected participant, no such Board action may materially and adversely affect the rights of such participant under any previously granted and outstanding award. The Committee or the Board may waive any conditions or rights under, or amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate any award theretofore granted and any award agreement relating thereto, except as otherwise provided in the 2010 Incentive Plan; provided that, without the consent of an affected participant, no such Committee or the Board action may materially and adversely affect the rights of such participant under such award.

 

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Compensation Committee. The shareholders of the Company approved the 2010 Incentive Plan at the annual meeting held on December 27, 2010. In accordance with the 2010 Incentive Plan, the Board of Directors of the Company has appointed the Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) to administer the 2010 Incentive Plan. The Company granted an aggregate of 1,130,000 stock options to Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Su Wei Feng, Hen Man Edmund, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, Ding Wei Dong and William L. Stulginsky, upon the approval by the Board of Directors on January 27, 2011, the grant date. The exercise price of the share options granted is $7.65 per share and the share options are valid for a period of 5 years from January 27, 2011 to January 27, 2016. One-fourth of options granted will vest in every year from the grant date. As at the grant date of January 27, 2011, the estimated total fair value of the options granted is $3,977,600.

 

Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the 2010 Incentive Plan

 

The following is a general summary of the U.S. federal income tax consequences under current tax law to China Ceramics, were it subject to U.S. federal income taxation on a net income basis, and to participants under the 2010 Incentive Plan who are individual citizens or residents of the United States for U.S. federal income tax purposes (“U.S. participants”) of Options, which include ISOs and Options that are not ISOs, SARs, restricted stock, deferred stock, performance shares, performance units, restricted stock units, dividend equivalent rights and bonus stock. It does not purport to cover all of the special rules that may apply, including special rules relating to limitations on the ability of China Ceramics to deduct certain compensation, special rules relating to deferred compensation, golden parachutes, participants subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act and the exercise of an Option with previously-acquired shares. This summary assumes that U.S. participants will hold their shares as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. This summary does not address the application of the passive foreign investment company rules of the Code to U.S. participants. These rules are discussed generally under the section below entitled “Taxation–United States Federal Income Taxation–U.S. Holders–Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules”. In addition, this summary does not address the foreign, state or local income or other tax consequences, or any U.S. federal non-income tax consequences, inherent in the acquisition, ownership, vesting, exercise, termination or disposition of an award under the 2010 Incentive Plan or shares issued pursuant thereto. Participants are urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the tax consequences to them of an award under the 2010 Incentive Plan or shares issued pursuant thereto.

 

A U.S. participant generally does not recognize taxable income upon the grant of an Option. Upon the exercise of an Option that is not an ISO, the participant generally recognizes ordinary income in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares acquired on the date of exercise over the exercise price therefor, and China Ceramics would be entitled to a deduction for such amount at that time. If the U.S. participant later disposes of the shares acquired under an Option that is not an ISO, the U.S. participant generally recognizes a long-term or short-term gain or loss, depending upon the period for which the shares were held thereby. A long-term capital gain generally is subject to more favorable tax treatment than ordinary income or a short-term capital gain. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to certain limitations.

 

Upon the exercise of an ISO, a U.S. participant generally does not recognize taxable income. If the U.S. participant disposes of the shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of an ISO more than two years after the date of grant and more than one year after the transfer of the shares to the participant, the U.S. participant generally recognizes a long-term capital gain or loss, and China Ceramics would not be entitled to a deduction. However, if the U.S. participant disposes of such shares prior to the end of the required holding period, all or a portion of the gain is treated as ordinary income, and China Ceramics generally would be entitled to deduct such amount.

 

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In addition to the U.S. federal income tax consequences described above, the U.S. participant may be subject to the alternative minimum tax (“AMT”), which is payable to the extent it exceeds the participant’s regular income tax. For this purpose, upon the exercise of an ISO, the excess of the fair market value of the shares for which the ISO is exercised over the exercise price thereunder for such shares is a preference item for purposes of the AMT. In addition, the U.S. participant’s basis in such shares is increased by such excess for purposes of computing the gain or loss on the disposition of the shares for AMT purposes. If a U.S. participant is required to pay any AMT, the amount of such tax which is attributable to deferral preferences (including any ISO adjustment) generally may be allowed as a credit against the participant’s regular income tax liability (and, in certain cases, may be refunded to the participant) in subsequent years. To the extent the credit is not used, it may be carried forward.

 

A U.S. participant who receives a restricted stock award or who purchases shares of restricted stock, which shares, in either case, are subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture and certain transfer restrictions, generally does not recognize income on the receipt of the award or the purchased restricted shares and generally recognizes ordinary compensation income at the time the restrictions lapse in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares at such time over any amount paid by the U.S. participant for the shares. Alternatively, the U.S. participant may elect to be taxed upon receipt of the restricted shares based on the value of the shares at the time of receipt. China Ceramics generally would be entitled to deduct such amount at the same time as ordinary compensation income is required to be included by the U.S. participant and in the same amount. Dividends received with respect to restricted shares generally are treated as compensation, unless the U.S. participant elects to be taxed on the receipt (rather than the vesting) of the restricted shares.

 

A U.S. participant generally does not recognize income upon the grant of an SAR. The U.S. participant recognizes ordinary compensation income upon the exercise of the SAR equal to the increase in the value of the underlying shares, and China Ceramics generally would be entitled to a deduction for such amount.

 

A U.S. participant generally does not recognize income on the receipt of a deferred stock award or a bonus stock award and generally recognizes income when the shares are received. At such time, the U.S. participant recognizes ordinary compensation income equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the shares over any amount paid for the shares, and China Ceramics generally would be entitled to deduct such amount at such time.

 

A U.S. participant generally does not recognize income on the receipt of a performance award, annual incentive award or dividend equivalent right award until a payment is received under the award.  At such time, the U.S. participant recognizes ordinary compensation income equal to the amount of any cash payments and the fair market value of any shares received, and China Ceramics generally would be entitled to deduct such amount at such time.

 

China Ceramics Co., Ltd. 2017 Equity Compensation Plan

 

On May 21, 2017, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) approved the 2017 Equity Compensation Plan (the “Plan”) is to attract and retain outstanding individuals as employees, directors and consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries, to recognize the contributions made to the Company and its Subsidiaries by such individuals and to provide them with additional incentive to expand and improve the profits and achieve the objectives of the Company

 

The Plan is administered by the Board. The Board, in its sole discretion, will determine the eligible individuals to whom, and the time or times at which awards will be granted, the form and amount of each award, the expiration date of each award, the time or times within which the awards may be exercised, the cancellation of the awards and the other limitations, restrictions, terms and conditions applicable to the grant of the awards.

 

The total number of shares that may be issued under the Plan is 280,000, subject to adjustments in the event of any reorganization, recapitalization, share split, distribution, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, subdivision, consolidation or exchange of shares, any change in the capital structure of the Company or any similar corporate transaction. The Board may, in its discretion, (a) grant shares under the Plan to any participant without consideration from such Participant or (b) sell shares under the Plan to any participant for such amount of cash, shares or other consideration as the Board deems appropriate. Notwithstanding any of the provisions of the Plan or any outstanding award agreement, upon a Change in Control of the Company, the Board is authorized and has sole discretion to provide that all restrictions applicable to all awards shall terminate or lapse in order that Participants may fully realize the benefits thereunder. Awards granted under the Plan, and any rights and privileges pertaining thereto, may not be transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated in any manner, or be subject to execution, attachment or similar process, by operation of law or otherwise, other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. The Board may terminate, suspend, or amend the Plan, in whole or in part, from time to time. The Board also has the authority to amend any award agreement at any time.

 

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  C. Board Practices

 

The term of each director is until their resignation or removal.

 

Our board of directors has established an audit committee, a compensation committee and a governance and nominating committee.

 

Audit Committee.   The audit committee consists of Liu Jun, Roy Tan Choon Kang and Shen Cheng Liang. Mr. Roy Tan Choon Kang is the chair of the audit committee, and he qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert”, as such term is defined in the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

The board of directors has adopted an audit committee charter, providing for the following responsibilities of the audit committee:

 

  · appointing and replacing our independent auditors and pre-approving all auditing and permitted non-auditing services to be performed by the independent auditors;

 

  · reviewing and discussing the annual audited financial statements with management and the independent auditors;

 

  · annually reviewing and reassessing the adequacy of our audit committee charter;

 

  · such other matters that are specifically delegated to our audit committee by our board of directors from time to time;

 

  · meeting separately and periodically with management, the internal auditors and the independent auditors; and

 

  · reporting regularly to the board of directors.

 

A copy of the audit committee charter is available on our website at http://cceramics.com/Corporate-Governance.html . The information contained on our website is not a part of this Annual Report.

 

Compensation Committee .  Our compensation committee consists of Liu Jun, Roy Tan Choon Kang and Shen Cheng Liang. Shen Cheng Liang is the chair of our compensation committee. Liu Jun, Roy Tan Choon Kang and Shen Cheng Liang do not have any direct or indirect material relationship with us other than as a director.

 

Our board of directors adopted a compensation committee charter, providing for the following responsibilities of the compensation committee:

 

  · reviewing and making recommendations to the board regarding our compensation policies and forms of compensation provided to our directors and officers;

 

  · reviewing and making recommendations to the board regarding bonuses for our officers and other employees;

 

  · administering our incentive-compensation plans for our directors and officers;

 

  · reviewing and assessing the adequacy of the charter annually;

 

  · administering our share option plans, if they are established in the future, in accordance with the terms thereof; and

 

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  · such other matters that are specifically delegated to the compensation committee by our board of directors from time to time.

 

A copy of the compensation committee charter is available on our website at http://cceramics.com/Corporate-Governance.html . The information contained on our website is not a part of this Annual Report.

 

Governance and Nominating Committee .  Our governance and nominating committee consists of Liu Jun, Roy Tan Choon Kang and Shen Cheng Liang. Shen Cheng Liang is the chair of our governance and nominating committee. Liu Jun, Roy Tan Choon Kang and Shen Cheng Liang do not have any direct or indirect material relationship with us other than as a director.

 

Our board of directors adopted a governance and nominating committee charter, providing for the following responsibilities of the governance and nominating committee:

 

  · overseeing the process by which individuals may be nominated to our board of directors;

 

  · identifying potential directors and making recommendations as to the size, functions and composition of our board of directors and its committees;

 

  · reviewing candidates proposed by our shareholders;

 

  · developing the criteria and qualifications for the selection of potential directors; and

 

  · making recommendations to the board of directors on new candidates for board membership.

 

A copy of the governance and nominating committee charter is available on our website at http://cceramics.com/Corporate-Governance.html . The information contained on our website is not a part of this Annual Report.

 

In making nominations, the governance and nominating committee is required to submit candidates who have the highest personal and professional integrity, who have demonstrated exceptional ability and judgment and who shall be most effective, in conjunction with the other nominees to the board, in collectively serving the long-term interests of the shareholders. In evaluating nominees, the governance and nominating committee is required to take into consideration the following attributes, which are desirable for a member of the board: leadership, independence, interpersonal skills, financial acumen, business experiences, industry knowledge, and diversity of viewpoints.

 

Code of Ethics

 

In May 2010, our board of directors adopted a code of ethics that applies to our directors, officers and employees. Our code of ethics is available on our website at http://cceramics.com/Corporate-Governance.html.

 

Director Independence

 

Our Board is subject to the independence requirements of the Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”). The Board undertakes periodic reviews of director independence. During this review, the Board considers transactions and relationships between each director or any member of his immediate family, the Company and its affiliates to determine whether any such relationships or transactions exist that are inconsistent with a determination that the director is independent. Our Board has determined that all current members of the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee (Jianwei Liu, Shen Cheng Liang and Ms. Cheng Yan) are ‘‘independent” in accordance with the Nasdaq independence requirements. Our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer does not serve on any of the Board committees. The majority of the Board is comprised of independent directors. The Board based these determinations primarily on a review of the responses of the directors and executive officers to questions regarding employment and transaction history, affiliations and family and other relationships and on discussions with the directors and the fact that no director previously reported a change in circumstances that could affect his independence. 

 

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  D. Employees

 

The table below provides information as to the total number of employees at the end of the last three fiscal years. We reduced the number of our employees in 2015 due to the reduction in the facilities that were being operated. We have no contracts or collective bargaining agreements with labor unions and have never experienced work stoppages due to labor dispute. We consider our relations with our employees to be good.

 

    2016     2017     2018  
Number of Employees     1,275       1,265       579  

 

  E. Share Ownership

 

See Item 7 below.

 

ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

  A. Major shareholders

 

The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of our shares by each person who is known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our shares. The table also identifies the share ownership of each of our directors, each of our named executive officers, and all directors and officers as a group. Except as otherwise indicated, the shareholders listed in the table have sole voting and investment powers with respect to the shares indicated. Our major shareholders do not have different voting rights than any other holder of our shares.

 

Shares which an individual or group has a right to acquire within 60 days pursuant to the exercise or conversion of options, warrants or other similar convertible or derivative securities are deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such individual or group, but are not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person shown in the table.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission and generally includes voting and investment power. Except as otherwise indicated below, each beneficial owner holds voting and investment power directly. The percentage of ownership is based on 6,011,885  shares issued and outstanding as of April 18, 2018. All figures reported on a post one-for-eight reverse split basis of the Company’s common shares effected in June 2016.

  

Name(1)   Number of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
    % of
Ownership
 
Shen Cheng Liang     0       0 %
Huang Jia Dong     1,001,913 (2)     16.7 %
Roy Tan Choon Kang     0       0 %
Liu Jun     0       0 %
Alex Ng Man Shek     0       0 %
Hen Man Edmund     37,884       *  
All directors and executive officers as a group (6 individuals)     1,039,797       17.3 %
Sound Treasure Limited     1,001,913 (3)     16.7 %
Sun Cuixia (4)    

491,338

     

8.17

%
Zhao E (5)    

421,149

      7 %
Cheh Chau Ho (6)    

491,338

      8.17 %

 

* Less than 1%

 

  77  

 

 

(1) Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd.; Junbing Industrial Zone; Anhai, Jinjiang City; Fujian Province, PRC.

 

(2) Includes (i) an aggregate of 335,300 shares owned by Mr. Huang’s spouse and children for which Mr. Huang may be deemed to be the beneficial owner, which beneficial ownership Mr. Huang disclaims, and (ii) 651,613 shares owned by Sound Treasure Limited, an entity of which Mr. Huang is the sole director and shareholder.

 

(3) Huang Jia Dong is the sole director and shareholder of Sound Treasure Limited. The mailing address for Sound Treasure is c/o c/o Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd.; Junbing Industrial Zone; Anhai, Jinjiang City; Fujian Province, PRC, Attn: Huang Jia Dong.
   
(4) The mailing address of this shareholder is 335 W Norman Ave. Arcadia. CA 91007.
   
(5)

The mailing address of this selling shareholder is 32 S. Almansor St., Alhambra. CA 91803.

   
(6) The mailing address of this shareholder is 12/F, No. 23, Lane 236, Sec. 5, Chung Hsiao E. Rd., Taipei, Taiwan.

 

  B. Related Party Transactions

 

Pursuant to an administrative services agreement dated as of December 1, 2009 between the Company and Stuart Management Co., an affiliate of Paul K. Kelly, an ex-director who resigned on Nov 27, 2013, the Company paid US$ 6,000 (equivalent to RMB 40,000) and US$ 12,000 (equivalent to RMB 81,000) during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 plus out-of-pocket expenses to Stuart Management Co. for administrative services. The initial one-year term began on December 1, 2009, and the agreement automatically renews for successive one-year terms unless either party notifies the other of its intent not to renew. During the term of the agreement, Stuart Management Co. provided the Company with general administrative services, including acting as the Company’s administrative agent in the United States and the British Virgin Islands, and allow the Company to utilize certain of its office space for meetings. The agreement was renewed to reduce the amount to US$ 4,900 (equivalent to RMB 30,000) a month in December 2013. The amount was further reduced to US$ 1,000 (equivalent to RMB 6,000) a month commencing October 2014. The Company terminated service with Stuart Management starting from July 1, 2018.

 

Mr. Huang Jia Dong, the founder and Chairman of Hengda and the Chief Executive Officer and one of the directors of the Company and Mr. Wong Kung Tok, formerly one of the Company’s significant shareholders, provide working capital loans to the Company from time to time during the normal course of its business. These loans amounted to RMB35,055,000 and RMB34,928,000 as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. These loans are interest free, unsecured and repayable on demand. Mr. Huang and Mr. Wong are brothers-in-law. Mr. Huang and Mr. Wong are brothers-in-law.

 

As of December 31, 2018, the Company had a loan of US$167,000 (equivalent to RMB1,148,000) (2017: US$167,000 (equivalent to RMB1,089,000)) payable to Sound Treasure Limited, an affiliate of Mr. Huang Jia Dong and a shareholder of the Company. This loan is interest free, unsecured and repayable on demand.

 

  C. Interests of Experts and Counsel

 

Not required.

 

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

  A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information.

 

See Item 18 for our audited consolidated financial statements.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

On June 6, 2014, a putative class action complaint (the “Pollock Complaint”) was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and various current and former directors and officers asserting claims of violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder against all defendants, and asserting claims for violations of Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act against the individual defendants; and pursuing remedies under the Exchange Act. The complaint is captioned Robert Pollock, Individually and On Behalf of All Others Similarly Situated v. Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Hen Man Edmund, Ding Wei Dong, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, William L. Stulginsky, Su Wei Feng, Shen Cheng Liang, Jianwei Liu, And China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (Case No. 14-cv-4100).

 

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On June 16, 2014, a putative class action complaint (the “Artinoff Complaint”) was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and various current and former directors and officers asserting claims of violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder against all defendants, and asserting claims for violations of Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act against the individual defendants; and pursuing remedies under the Exchange Act. The complaint is captioned Roger Artinoff, Individually and On Behalf of All Others Similarly Situated v. China Ceramics Co. Ltd., Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Hen Man Edmund, Ding Wei Dong, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, William L. Stulginsky And Su Wei Feng. (Case No. 14-cv-4312).

 

On July 2, 2014, a putative class action complaint (the “Finlayson Complaint”) was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against us and various current and former directors and officers asserting claims for violations of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder against all defendants, and claims for violations of Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act against the individual defendants; and pursuing remedies under the Exchange Act. The complaint is captioned Richard Finlayson, Individually and On Behalf of All Others Similarly Situated v. Huang Jia Dong, Su Pei Zhi, Hen Man Edmund, Ding Wei Dong, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, William L. Stulginsky, Su Wei Feng, Shen Cheng Liang, Jianwei Liu, and China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (Case No. 14-cv-4997).

 

On February 6, 2015, the Company and the individual defendants reached an agreement in principle to settle the class action litigation brought against the Company in consideration of the payment by the Company of $850,000, consisting of $310,000 payable in cash and $540,000 to be issued in the Company’s common shares.  On January 6, 2016, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Court”) held a final hearing to consider approval of the settlement, and on April 22, 2016, it issued a final order approving the settlement and ordering that the parties file a stipulation voluntarily dismissing the action on or before May 23, 2016 or, in the alternative, to file a joint letter by the same deadline stating the reasons for the delay in filing such a stipulation. On April 22, 2016, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a final order approving the settlement. The Company remitted $310,000 in cash and issued 554,415 common shares in full satisfaction of the terms of the settlement. The case was closed on August 2, 2016.

 

Dividend Policy

 

Our Board of Directors has discretion to pay dividends. The form, frequency and amount will depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors that our Board of Directors may deem relevant. Although we have paid dividends in the past, there is no assurance that we will continue to pay dividends in the future.

 

On February 25, 2014, we announced two semi-annual cash dividends of $0.0125 per share. The first dividend of $0.0125 per share was paid on July 14, 2014 and the second of $0.0125 per share was paid on January 14, 2015, with record dates of June 13, 2014 and December 12, 2014, respectively. No dividends were paid subsequent to January 14, 2015. The Company does not anticipate paying dividends in the near future.

 

We are a holding company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. We rely on dividends paid by our Hong Kong and Chinese subsidiaries for our cash needs. The payment of dividends by entities organized in China is subject to limitations. If the Boards of our Chinese subsidiaries decide to pay dividends in the future, these restrictions may impede our ability to pay dividends and/or the amount of dividends we could pay. In addition, if our Chinese subsidiaries incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends or make other distributions to us.

 

  B. Significant Changes

 

Except as disclosed elsewhere in this Annual Report, we have not experienced any significant changes since the date of our audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report.

 

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ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

 

  A. Offer and Listing Details

 

The following tables set forth, for the calendar quarters indicated and through March 31, 2017, the quarterly high and low sale prices for our shares, as reported on NASDAQ Stock Market, the OTC Bulletin Board or the NYSE Amex, as applicable. The OTC Bulletin Board market quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not necessarily reflect actual transactions. Prior to June 28, 2016, the sale prices of our shares were retroactively restated to reflect the 8:1 reverse split effected on that date.

 

    Shares  
    High     Low  
Annual Highs and Lows                
2012     36.32       11.76  
2013     32.48       15.84  
2014     20.48       5.92  
2015     11.36       6.00  
2016     8.64       2.09  
2017                
2018                
Quarterly Highs and Lows                
2016                
First Quarter     8.64       2.80  
Second Quarter     4.08       2.09  
Third Quarter     5.30       2.19  
Fourth Quarter     3.02       2.10  
2017                
First Quarter     2.53       2.08  
Second Quarter     2.26       1.32  
Third Quarter     1.68       1.31  
Fourth Quarter     2.39       1.32  
2018                
First Quarter     2.69       1.43  
Second Quarter     1.76       1.37  
Third Quarter     1.87       1.32  
Fourth Quarter     3.67       0.8  
2019                
First Quarter     2.08       1.38  
                 
Monthly Highs and Lows                
September 2018     1.45       1.28  
October 2018     3.67       1.3  
November 2018     2.47       1.23  
December 2018     1.18       0.8  
January 2019     2.08       1.38  
February 2019     1.99       1.72  
March 2019     1.92       1.52  

 

  B. Plan of Distribution

 

Not Applicable.

 

  C. Markets

 

  80  

 

 

Our shares have been listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbols CCCL, since January 18, 2011. Our shares were listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market from November 3, 2010 through January 17, 2011 and were relisted on the Nasdaq Capital Market on March 23, 2016 following the listing transfer where it is trading now under the same symbol “CCCL.” Our shares were listed on the NASDAQ Global Market from January 18, 2011 until March 22, 2016. The shares were previously quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board from December 29, 2009 through November 2, 2010. Prior to December 29, 2009, our shares were traded on NYSE Amex, under the symbols “HOL.” CHAC’s shares commenced to trade on December 17, 2007.

  

  D. Selling Shareholders

 

Not Applicable.

 

  E. Dilution

 

Not Applicable.

 

  F. Expenses of the Issue

 

Not Applicable.

 

ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

  A. Share Capital

 

Not Applicable.

 

  B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

 

The information required by Item 10.B of Form 20-F is included in the section titled “Description of Securities–Memorandum and Articles of Association” in our Registration Statement on Form F-1 initially filed with the SEC on October 29, 2010 (File No.: 333-170237), which section is incorporated herein by reference.

 

  C. Material Contracts

 

During 2013 and 2014, we entered into certain foreign currency transaction agreements with an unaffiliated financial institution related to the fluctuation in value of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar. We recorded fair value gains on these agreements totaling RMB 3,346,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013. However, in 2014, as the Renminbi depreciated against the U.S. dollar, we incurred realized and unrealized losses totaling RMB 59,477,000 from January 1 to July 31, 2014 in connection with these agreements. On July 31, 2014, Sound Treasure Limited, our largest shareholder and an affiliate of our Chief Executive Officer, executed an agreement (the “Novation”) with us and the financial institution that originated the foreign currency transaction agreements pursuant to which Sound Treasure Limited assumed these agreements and all assets (mainly deposits placed with the financial institution) and all existing and future liabilities arising under these agreements, and we were released from the liabilities arising under the foreign currency transaction agreements. As a result, we will not be required to fund any losses related to these agreements, and will neither suffer any future liabilities arising under those agreements nor enjoy any benefits arising under those agreements.

 

At the time that each of the foreign currency transaction agreements was established with the financial institution, we were required to deposit monies (the “Deposits”) with the financial institution that was the counterparty to the agreements. RMB 6.7 million of a total of RMB 15.6 million in deposits that we made were funded on our behalf by Wong Kung Tok (who is the brother-in-law of our Chief Executive Officer), and were included in a total of RMB 40.2 million in loans owing by us to Wong Kung Tok as of July 9, 2014. In connection with the Novation discussed above, our Chief Executive Officer, Sound Treasure Limited and Wong Kung Tok executed an agreement with the Company on July 31, 2014 (the “Offset Agreement”) pursuant to which loans totaling RMB 20.7 million owed by us to Wong Kung Tok were transferred to Sound Treasure Limited and then were forgiven by Sound Treasure Limited, and in return the Company agreed to forego any claim to RMB 15.6 million in Deposits under the foreign currency transaction agreements which were transferred to Sound Treasure Limited pursuant to the Novation.

 

  81  

 

 

The Novation and the Offset Agreement became effective on July 31, 2014.

 

Except for the above, we did not enter into any other material contracts during fiscal years 2016, 2017 or 2018. 

 

  D. Exchange controls

 

Under British Virgin Islands law, there are currently no restrictions on the export or import of capital, including foreign exchange controls or restrictions that affect the remittance of dividends, interest or other payments to nonresident holders of our shares.

 

  E. Taxation

 

The following summary of the material PRC and U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of China Ceramics shares, sometimes referred to as “securities,” is based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this Annual Report, all of which are subject to change. This summary does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in China Ceramics’ securities, such as the tax consequences under state, local and other tax laws. For purposes of this discussion, references to “China Ceramics,” “we,” “us” or “our” refer only to China Ceramics Co., Ltd.

 

PRC Taxation

 

The following discussion summarizes the material PRC income tax considerations relating to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of China Ceramics’ securities.

 

You should consult with your own tax adviser regarding the PRC tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of China Ceramics’ securities.

 

Resident Enterprise Treatment

 

On March 16, 2007, the Fifth Session of the Tenth National People’s Congress passed the Enterprise Income Tax Law of the PRC (“EIT Law”), which became effective on January 1, 2008. Under the EIT Law, enterprises are classified as “resident enterprises” and “non-resident enterprises.” Pursuant to the EIT Law and its implementing rules, enterprises established outside China whose “de facto management bodies” are located in China are considered “resident enterprises” and subject to the uniform 25% enterprise income tax rate on their worldwide taxable income. According to the implementing rules of the EIT Law, “de facto management body” refers to a managing body that in practice exercises overall management control over the production and business, personnel, accounting and assets of an enterprise.

 

On April 22, 2009, the State Administration of Taxation issued the Notice on the Issues Regarding Recognition of Enterprises that are Domestically Controlled as PRC Resident Enterprises Based on the De Facto Management Body Criteria, which was retroactively effective as of January 1, 2008. This notice provides that an overseas incorporated enterprise that is controlled by PRC domestic companies will be recognized as a “tax-resident enterprise” if it satisfies all of the following conditions: (i) the senior management responsible for daily production/business operations are primarily located in the PRC, and the location(s) where such senior management execute their responsibilities are primarily in the PRC; (ii) strategic financial and personnel decisions are made or approved by organizations or personnel located in the PRC; (iii) major properties, accounting ledgers, company seals and minutes of board meetings and stockholder meetings, etc., are maintained in the PRC; and (iv) 50% or more of the board members with voting rights or senior management habitually reside in the PRC.

 

  82  

 

 

Given the short history of the EIT Law and lack of applicable legal precedent, it remains unclear how the PRC tax authorities will determine the resident enterprise status of a company organized under the laws of a foreign (non-PRC) jurisdiction, such as China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best. If the PRC tax authorities determine that China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best is a “resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, a number of tax consequences could follow. First, China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best could be subject to the enterprise income tax at a rate of 25% on their worldwide taxable income, as well as PRC enterprise income tax reporting obligations. Second, the EIT Law provides that dividend income between “qualified resident enterprises” is exempt from income tax. As a result, if China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best are each treated as a “qualified resident enterprise,” all dividends paid from Hengda to China Ceramics, through Success Winner and Stand Best, should be exempt from the PRC enterprise income tax.

 

As of the date of this Annual Report, there has not been a definitive determination by China Ceramics, Success Winner, Stand Best or the PRC tax authorities as to the “resident enterprise” or “non-resident enterprise” status of China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best. However, since it is not anticipated that China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best would receive dividends or generate other income in the near future, China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best are not expected to have any income that would be subject to the 25% enterprise income tax on worldwide taxable income in the near future. China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best will make any necessary tax payment if China Ceramics, Success Winner or Stand Best (based on future clarifying guidance issued by the PRC), or the PRC tax authorities, determine that China Ceramics, Success Winner or Stand Best is a resident enterprise under the EIT Law, and if China Ceramics, Success Winner or Stand Best were to have income in the future.

 

Dividends From Hengda

 

If Stand Best is not treated as a resident enterprise under the EIT Law, then dividends that Stand Best receives from Hengda may be subject to PRC withholding tax. The EIT Law and the implementing rules of the EIT Law provide that (A) an income tax rate of 25% will normally be applicable to investors that are “non-resident enterprises” which (i) have an establishment or place of business inside the PRC, and (ii) have income in connection with their establishment or place of business that is sourced from the PRC or is earned outside the PRC but has an actual connection with their establishment or place of business inside the PRC, and (B) a PRC withholding tax at a rate of 10% will normally be applicable to dividends payable to non-resident enterprises that (i) do not have an establishment or place of business in the PRC or (ii) have an establishment or place of business in the PRC, but the relevant income is not effectively connected with such establishment or place of business, to the extent such dividends are derived from sources within the PRC.

 

As described above, the PRC tax authorities may determine the resident enterprise status of entities organized under the laws of foreign jurisdictions on a case-by-case basis. China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best are holding companies and substantially all of China Ceramics’, Success Winner’s and Stand Best’s income may be derived from dividends. Thus, if China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best are considered a “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law and the dividends paid to China Ceramics, Success Winner and/or Stand Best are considered income sourced within the PRC, such dividends received may be subject to PRC withholding tax as described in the foregoing paragraph.

 

The State Council of the PRC or a tax treaty between China and the jurisdiction in which the non-resident enterprise resides may reduce such income or withholding tax, with respect to a non-resident enterprise. Pursuant to the Arrangement between the Mainland of China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income (the “PRC-Hong Kong Tax Treaty”), if the Hong Kong resident enterprise that is not deemed to be a conduit by the PRC tax authorities owns more than 25% of the equity interest in a PRC resident enterprise, the 10% PRC withholding tax on the dividends the Hong Kong resident enterprise receives from such PRC resident enterprise is reduced to 5%.

 

China Ceramics is a British Virgin Islands holding company, and it has a British Virgin Islands subsidiary (Success Winner), which owns a 100% equity interest in a subsidiary in Hong Kong (Stand Best), which in turns owns a 100% equity interest in Hengda, a PRC company. As a result, if Stand Best were treated as a “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, then dividends that Stand Best receives from Hengda (assuming such dividends were considered sourced within the PRC) (i) may be subject to a 5% PRC withholding tax, if the PRC-Hong Kong Tax Treaty were applicable, or (ii) if such treaty does not apply (i.e., because the PRC tax authorities may deem Stand Best to be a conduit that is not entitled to treaty benefits), may be subject to a 10% PRC withholding tax. Similarly, if Success Winner were treated as a PRC “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law and Stand Best were treated as a PRC “resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, then dividends that Success Winner receives from Stand Best (assuming such dividends were considered sourced within the PRC) may be subject to a 10% PRC withholding tax. A similar situation may arise if China Ceramics were treated as a “non-resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, and Success Winner were treated as a “resident enterprise” under EIT Law. Any such taxes on dividends could materially reduce the amount of dividends, if any, China Ceramics could pay to its shareholders.

 

  83  

 

As of the date of this Annual Report, there has not been a definitive determination by China Ceramics, Success Winner, Stand Best or the PRC tax authorities as to the “resident enterprise” or “non-resident enterprise” status of China Ceramics, Success Winner and Stand Best. As described above, however, Hengda, Stand Best and Success Winner are not expected to pay any dividends in the near future. Hengda, Stand Best and Success Winner will make any necessary tax withholding if, in the future, Hengda, Stand Best or Success Winner were to pay any dividends and Hengda, Stand Best or Success Winner (based on future clarifying guidance issued by the PRC), or the PRC tax authorities, determine that Stand Best, Success Winner or China Ceramics is a non-resident enterprise under the EIT Law.

 

Dividends that Non-PRC Resident Investors Receive From China Ceramics; Gain on the Sale or Transfer of China Ceramics’ Securities

 

If we are determined to be a resident enterprise under the EIT Law and dividends payable to (or gains realized by) China Ceramics’ investors that are not tax residents of the PRC (“non-resident investors”) are treated as income derived from sources within the PRC, then the dividends that the non-resident investors receive from us and any such gain derived by such investors on the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities may be subject to income tax under the PRC tax laws.

 

Under the PRC tax laws, PRC withholding tax at the rate of 10% is applicable to dividends payable to non-resident investors that are enterprises, but not individuals, and that (i) do not have an establishment or place of business in the PRC or (ii) have an establishment or place of business in the PRC but the relevant income is not effectively connected with the establishment or place of business, to the extent that such dividends are deemed to be sourced within the PRC. Similarly, any gain realized on the transfer of China Ceramics’ securities by such investors also is subject to 10% PRC income tax if such gain is regarded as income derived from sources within the PRC.

 

The dividends paid by us to such non-resident investors with respect to China Ceramics’ securities, or gain such non-resident investors may realize from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities, may be treated as PRC-sourced income and, as a result, may be subject to PRC tax at a rate of 10%. In such event, China Ceramics may be required to withhold a 10% PRC tax on any dividends paid to such non-resident investors. In addition, such non-resident investors in China Ceramics’ securities may be responsible for paying PRC tax at a rate of 10% on any gain realized from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities if such non-resident investors and the gain satisfy the requirements under the PRC tax laws. However, under the PRC tax laws, China Ceramics would not have an obligation to withhold PRC income tax in respect of the gains that such non-resident investors (including U.S. enterprise investors) may realize from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities. Also, if China Ceramics is determined to be a “resident enterprise,” its non-resident investors who are individuals may also be subject to potential PRC individual income tax at a rate of 20% with respect to dividends received from China Ceramics and/or gains derived by them from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities.

 

If China Ceramics were to pay any dividends in the future, and if China Ceramics (based on future clarifying guidance issued by the PRC), or the PRC tax authorities, determine that China Ceramics must withhold PRC tax on any dividends payable by China Ceramics under the PRC tax laws, China Ceramics will make any necessary tax withholding on dividends payable to its non-resident investors. If non-resident investors as described under the PRC tax laws (including U.S. investors) realize any gain from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities and if such gain were considered as PRC-sourced income, such non-resident investors would be responsible for paying the applicable PRC income tax on the gain from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities. As indicated above, under the PRC tax laws, China Ceramics would not have an obligation to withhold PRC income tax in respect of the gains that non-resident investors (including U.S. investors) may realize from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities.

 

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On December 10, 2009, the SAT released Circular Guoshuihan No. 698 (“Circular 698”) that reinforces the taxation of certain equity transfers by non-resident investors through overseas holding vehicles. Circular 698 addresses indirect equity transfers as well as other issues. Circular 698 is retroactively effective from January 1, 2008. According to Circular 698, where a non-resident investor who indirectly holds an equity interest in a PRC resident enterprise through a non-PRC offshore holding company indirectly transfers an equity interest in the PRC resident enterprise by selling an equity interest in the offshore holding company, and the latter is located in a country or jurisdiction where the actual tax burden is less than 12.5% or where the offshore income of its residents is not taxable, the non-resident investor is required to provide the PRC tax authority in charge of that PRC resident enterprise with certain relevant information within 30 days of the execution of the equity transfer agreement. The tax authorities in charge will evaluate the offshore transaction for tax purposes. In the event that the PRC tax authorities determine that such transfer is abusing forms of business organization and a reasonable commercial purpose for the offshore holding company other than the avoidance of PRC income tax liability is lacking, the PRC tax authorities will have the power to re-assess the nature of the equity transfer under the doctrine of substance over form. A reasonable commercial purpose may be established when the overall international (including U.S.) offshore structure is set up to comply with the requirements of supervising authorities of international (including U.S.) capital markets. If the SAT’s challenge of a transfer is successful, it may deny the existence of the offshore holding company that is used for tax planning purposes and subject the seller to PRC tax on the capital gain from such transfer. Since Circular 698 has a short history, there is uncertainty as to its application. China Ceramics (or a non-resident investor) may become at risk of being taxed under Circular 698 and may be required to expend valuable resources to comply with Circular 698 or to establish that China Ceramics (or such non-resident investor) should not be taxed under Circular 698, which could have a material adverse effect on China Ceramics’ financial condition and results of operations (or such non-resident investor’s investment in China Ceramics).

 

In addition, the PRC resident enterprise may be required to provide necessary assistance to support the enforcement of Circular 698.

 

On February 3, 2015, the State Administration of Tax issued a Public Notice Regarding Certain Corporate Income Tax Matters on Indirect Transfer of Properties by Non-tax Resident Enterprise, or Public Notice 7. Public Notice 7 has introduced a new tax regime that is significantly different from that under Circular 698. Public Notice 7 extends its tax jurisdiction to not only indirect transfers set forth under Circular 698 but also transactions involving transfer of other taxable assets, through the offshore transfer of a foreign intermediate holding company. In addition, Public Notice 7 provides clearer criteria the Circular 698 on how to assess reasonable commercial purposes and has introduced safe harbors for internal group restructurings and the purchase and sale of equity through a public securities market. Public Notice 7 also brings challenges to both the foreign transferor and transferee (or other person who is obligated to pay for the transfer) of the taxable assets. Where a non-resident enterprise conducts an “indirect transfer” by transferring the taxable assets indirectly by disposing of the equity interests of an overseas holding company, the non-resident enterprise being the transferor, or the transferee, or the PRC entity which directly owned the taxable assets may report to the relevant tax authority such indirect transfer. Using a “substance over form” principle, the PRC tax authority may re-characterize such indirect transfer as a direct transfer of the equity interests in the PRC tax resident enterprise and other properties in China. As a result, gains derived from such indirect transfer may be subject to PRC enterprise income tax, and the transferee or other person who is obligated to pay for the transfer is obligated to withhold the applicable taxes, currently at a rate of up to 10% for the transfer of equity interests in a PRC resident enterprise. Both the transferor and the transferee may be subject to penalties under PRC tax laws if transferee fails to withhold the taxes and the transferor fails to pay the taxes.

 

We face uncertainties with respect to the reporting and consequences of private equity financing transactions, share exchange or other transactions involving the transfer of shares in our company by investors that are non-PRC resident enterprises, or sale or purchase of shares in other non-PRC resident companies or other taxable assets by us. Our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group may be subject to filing obligations or being taxed if our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group are transferors in such transactions, and may be subject to withholding obligations if our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group are transferees in such transactions, under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7. For the transfer of shares to our company by investors that are non-PRC resident enterprises, our PRC subsidiaries may be requested to assist in the filing under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7. As a result, we may be required to expend valuable resources to comply with Circular 698 and Public Notice 7 to request the relevant transferors from whom we purchase taxable assets to comply with these circulars, or to establish that our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group should not be taxed under these circulars, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

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The PRC tax authorities have the discretion under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7 to make adjustments to the taxable capital gains based on the difference between the fair value of the taxable assets transferred and the cost of investment. If the PRC tax authorities make adjustments to the taxable income of the transactions under Circular 698 and Public Notice 7, our income tax costs associated with such potential acquisitions will be increased, which may have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Penalties for Failure to Pay Applicable PRC Income Tax

 

A non-resident investor in us may be responsible for paying PRC tax on any gain realized from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities if such non-resident investor and the gain satisfy the requirements under the PRC tax laws, as described above.

 

According to the EIT Law and its implementing rules, the PRC Individual Income Tax Law and its implementing rules, the PRC Tax Administration Law (the “Tax Administration Law”) and its implementing rules, the Provisional Measures for the Administration of Withholding of Enterprise Income Tax for Non-resident Enterprises (the “Administration Measures”) and other applicable PRC laws or regulations (collectively the “Tax Related Laws”), where any gain derived by a non-resident investor from the sale or transfer of China Ceramics’ securities is subject to any income tax in the PRC, and such non-resident investor fails to file any tax return or pay tax in this regard pursuant to the Tax Related Laws, such investor may be subject to certain fines, penalties or punishments, including without limitation: (1) if the non-resident investor fails to file a tax return and present the relevant information in connection with tax payments, the competent tax authorities shall order it to do so within the prescribed time limit and may impose a fine up to RMB 2,000, and in egregious cases, may impose a fine ranging from RMB 2,000 to RMB 10,000; (2) if the non-resident investor fails to file a tax return or fails to pay all or part of the amount of tax payable, the non-resident investor shall be required to pay the unpaid tax amount payable, a surcharge on overdue tax payments (the daily surcharge is 0.05% of the overdue amount, beginning from the day the deferral begins) and a fine ranging from 50% to 500% of the unpaid amount of the tax payable; (3) if the non-resident investor fails to file a tax return and to pay the tax within the prescribed time limit according to the order by the PRC tax authorities, the PRC tax authorities may collect and check information about the income receivable by the non-resident investor in the PRC from other payers (the “Other Payers”) who will pay amounts to such non-resident investor, and send a “Notice of Tax Issues” to the Other Payers to collect and recover the tax payable and overdue fines imposed on such non-resident investor from the amounts otherwise payable to such non-resident investor by the Other Payers; (4) if the non-resident investor fails to pay the tax payable within the prescribed time limit as ordered by the PRC tax authorities, a fine may be imposed on the non-resident investor ranging from 50% to 500% of the unpaid tax payable, and the PRC tax authorities may, upon approval by the director of the tax bureau (or sub-bureau) of, or higher than, the county level, take the following compulsory measures: (i) notify in writing the non-resident investor’s bank or other financial institution to withhold from the account thereof for payment of the amount of tax payable, and (ii) detain, seal off, or sell by auction or on the market the non-resident investor’s commodities, goods or other property in a value equivalent to the amount of tax payable; or (5) if the non-resident investor fails to pay all or part of the amount of tax payable or surcharge for overdue tax payment, and cannot provide a guarantee to the PRC tax authorities, the tax authorities may notify the frontier authorities to prevent the non-resident investor or its legal representative from leaving the PRC.

 

United States Federal Income Taxation

 

General

 

The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of China Ceramics’ securities.

 

The discussion below of the U.S. federal income tax consequences to “U.S. Holders” will apply to a beneficial owner of China Ceramics’ securities that is for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

 

  · an individual citizen or resident of the United States;

 

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  · a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation) that is created or organized (or treated as created or organized) in or under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

 

  · an estate whose income is includible in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes regardless of its source; or

 

  · a trust if (i) a U.S. court can exercise primary supervision over the trust’s administration and one or more U.S. persons are authorized to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or (ii) it has a valid election in effect under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

 

A beneficial owner of our securities that is described above is referred to herein as a “U.S. Holder.” If a beneficial owner of China Ceramics’ securities is not described as a U.S. Holder and is not an entity treated as a partnership or other pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes, such owner will be considered a “Non-U.S. Holder.” The material U.S. federal income tax consequences applicable specifically to Non-U.S. Holders are described below under the heading “Non-U.S. Holders.”

 

This summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the “Code,” its legislative history, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, published rulings and court decisions, all as currently in effect. These authorities are subject to change or differing interpretations, possibly on a retroactive basis.

 

This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to any particular holder of China Ceramics’ securities based on such holder’s individual circumstances. In particular, this discussion considers only holders that own and hold China Ceramics’ securities as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. This discussion also does not address the alternative minimum tax. In addition, this discussion does not address the U.S. federal income tax consequences to holders that are subject to special rules, including:

 

  · financial institutions or financial services entities;

 

  · broker-dealers;

 

  · persons that are subject to the mark-to-market accounting rules under Section 475 of the Code;

 

  · tax-exempt entities;

 

  · governments or agencies or instrumentalities thereof;

 

  · insurance companies;

 

  · regulated investment companies;

 

  · real estate investment trusts;

 

  · certain expatriates or former long-term residents of the United States;

 

  · persons that actually or constructively own 5% or more of China Ceramics’ voting shares;

 

  · persons that acquired China Ceramics’ securities pursuant to an exercise of employee share options, in connection with employee share incentive plans or otherwise as compensation;

 

  · persons that hold China Ceramics’ securities as part of a straddle, constructive sale, hedging, conversion or other integrated transaction;

 

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  · persons whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar;

 

  · controlled foreign corporations; or

 

  · passive foreign investment companies.

 

This discussion does not address any aspect of U.S. federal non-income tax laws, such as gift or estate tax laws, or state, local or non-U.S. tax laws, or, except as discussed herein, any tax reporting obligations of a holder of China Ceramics’ securities. Additionally, this discussion does not consider the tax treatment of partnerships or other pass-through entities or persons who hold China Ceramics’ securities through such entities. If a partnership (or other entity classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is the beneficial owner of China Ceramics’ securities, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. This discussion also assumes that any distribution made (or deemed made) in respect to the China Ceramics’ securities and any consideration received (or deemed received) by a holder in connection with the sale or other disposition of such securities will be in U.S. dollars.

 

China Ceramics has not sought, and will not seek, a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or “IRS,” or an opinion of counsel, as to any U.S. federal income tax consequence described herein. The IRS may disagree with the description herein, and its determination may be upheld by a court. Moreover, there can be no assurance that future legislation, regulations, administrative rulings or court decisions will not adversely affect the accuracy of the statements in this discussion.

 

THIS DISCUSSION IS ONLY A SUMMARY OF THE MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF CHINA CERAMICS’ SECURITIES. EACH HOLDER OF CHINA CERAMICS’ SECURITIES IS URGED TO CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT TO THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES TO SUCH HOLDER OF THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF CHINA CERAMICS’ SECURITIES, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF ANY STATE, LOCAL AND NON-U.S. TAX LAWS, AS WELL AS U.S. FEDERAL TAX LAWS AND APPLICABLE TAX TREATIES.

  

Tax Treatment of China Ceramics After the Redomestication and the Business Combination

 

Section 7874(b) of the Code generally provides that a corporation organized outside the United States that acquires, directly or indirectly, pursuant to a plan or series of related transactions, substantially all of the assets of a corporation organized in the United States will be treated as a domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if shareholders of the acquired corporation, by reason of owning shares of the acquired corporation, own at least 80% of either the voting power or the value of the stock of the acquiring corporation after the acquisition. Under regulations promulgated under Section 7874, a warrant holder of either the acquired corporation or the acquiring corporation generally is treated for this purpose as owning stock of the acquired corporation or the acquiring corporation, as the case may be, with a value equal to the excess of the value of the shares underlying the warrant over the exercise price of the warrant. If Section 7874(b) were to have applied to the Redomestication, then, among other things, China Ceramics, as the surviving entity, would have been subject to U.S. federal income tax on its worldwide taxable income following the Redomestication and the Business Combination as if it were a domestic corporation.

 

After the completion of the Business Combination, which occurred immediately after and as part of the same integrated transaction as the Redomestication, the former stockholders of CHAC (including warrant holders treated as owning stock of CHAC pursuant to the regulations under Section 7874) should have been considered as owning, by reason of owning (or being treated as owning) stock of CHAC, less than 80% of the voting power and the value of the shares of China Ceramics (including any warrants treated as shares of China Ceramics pursuant to the regulations promulgated under Section 7874). Accordingly, Section 7874(b) should not have applied to treat China Ceramics as a domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, due to the absence of full guidance on how the rules of Section 7874(b) applied to the transactions completed pursuant to the Redomestication and the Business Combination, this result is not entirely free from doubt. If, for example, the Redomestication were ultimately determined for purposes of Section 7874(b) as having occurred prior to, and separate from, the Business Combination for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the share ownership threshold for applicability of Section 7874(b) generally would have been satisfied (and China Ceramics would have been treated as a domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) because the former stockholders of CHAC (including warrant holders treated as owning stock of CHAC), by reason of owning (or being treated as owning) stock of CHAC, would have owned all of the shares (including any warrants treated as shares) of China Ceramics immediately after the Redomestication. Although normal “step transaction” tax principles supported the view that the Redomestication and the Business Combination should have been viewed together for purposes of determining whether Section 7874(b) was applicable, because of the absence of guidance under Section 7874(b) directly on point, this result is not entirely free from doubt. The balance of this discussion assumes that China Ceramics has been and will be treated as a foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

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U.S. Holders

 

Taxation of Cash Distributions Paid on Shares

 

Subject to the passive foreign investment company, or “PFIC,” rules discussed below, a U.S. Holder generally will be required to include in gross income as ordinary income the amount of any cash dividend paid on the shares of China Ceramics. A cash distribution on such shares generally will be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent the distribution is paid out of current or accumulated earnings and profits of China Ceramics (as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes). Such dividend generally will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction generally allowed to U.S. corporations in respect of dividends received from other U.S. corporations. The portion of such cash distribution, if any, in excess of such earnings and profits will be applied against and reduce (but not below zero) the U.S. Holder’s adjusted basis in its shares in China Ceramics. Any remaining excess generally will be treated as gain from the sale or other taxable disposition of such shares.

 

With respect to non-corporate U.S. Holders, such dividends may be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the lower applicable regular long-term capital gains tax rate (see “—Taxation on the Disposition of Securities” below) provided that (1) the shares of China Ceramics are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States or, in the event China Ceramics is deemed to be a Chinese “resident enterprise” under the EIT Law, China Ceramics is eligible for the benefits of the Agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the People’s Republic of China for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Tax Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income, or the “U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty,” (2) China Ceramics is not a PFIC, as discussed below, for either the taxable year in which the dividend was paid or the preceding taxable year, and (3) certain holding period requirements are met. Under published IRS authority, shares are considered for purposes of clause (1) above to be readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States only if they are listed on certain exchanges, which presently include the NASDAQ Stock Market. Although China Ceramics’ shares are currently listed and traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market, it cannot guarantee that its shares will continue to be listed or traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability of the lower rate for any dividends paid with respect to the shares of China Ceramics.

 

If a PRC income tax applies to any cash dividends paid to a U.S. Holder on the shares of China Ceramics, such tax may be treated as a foreign tax eligible for a deduction from such holder’s U.S. federal taxable income or a foreign tax credit against such holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability (subject to applicable conditions and limitations). In addition, if such PRC tax applies to such dividends, such U.S. Holder may be entitled to certain benefits under the U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty if such holder is considered a resident of the United States for purposes of, and otherwise meets the requirements of, the U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the deduction or credit for any such PRC tax and their eligibility for the benefits of the U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty.

 

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Taxation on the Disposition of Securities

 

Upon a sale or other taxable disposition of the securities in China Ceramics, and subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized and the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the securities.

 

The regular U.S. federal income tax rate on capital gains recognized by U.S. Holders generally is the same as the regular U.S. federal income tax rate on ordinary income, except that long-term capital gains recognized by non-corporate U.S. Holders are generally subject to U.S. federal income tax at a maximum regular rate of 20%. Capital gain or loss will constitute long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the securities exceeds one year. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to various limitations.

 

If a PRC income tax applies to any gain from the disposition of the securities in China Ceramics by a U.S. Holder, such tax may be treated as a foreign tax eligible for a deduction from such holder’s U.S. federal taxable income or a foreign tax credit against such holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability (subject to applicable conditions and limitations). In addition, if such PRC tax applies to any gain, such U.S. Holder may be entitled to certain benefits under the U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty if such holder is considered a resident of the United States for purposes of, and otherwise meets the requirements of, the U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the deduction or credit for any such PRC tax and their eligibility for the benefits of the U.S.-PRC Tax Treaty.

 

Additional Taxes

 

U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds generally will be subject to a 3.8% Medicare contribution tax on unearned income, including, without limitation, dividends on, and gains from the sale or other taxable disposition of, China Ceramics’ securities, subject to certain limitations and exceptions. Under regulations, in the absence of a special election, such unearned income generally would not include income inclusions under the qualified electing fund, or QEF, rules discussed below under “ Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules,” but would include distributions of earnings and profits from a QEF. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the effect, if any, of such tax on their ownership and disposition of China Ceramics’ securities.

 

Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules

 

A foreign (i.e., non-U.S.) corporation will be a PFIC if at least 75% of its gross income in a taxable year of the foreign corporation, including its pro rata share of the gross income of any corporation in which it is considered to own at least 25% of the shares by value, is passive income. Alternatively, a foreign corporation will be a PFIC if at least 50% of its assets in a taxable year of the foreign corporation, ordinarily determined based on fair market value and averaged quarterly over the year, including its pro rata share of the assets of any corporation in which it is considered to own at least 25% of the shares by value, are held for the production of, or produce, passive income. Passive income generally includes dividends, interest, rents and royalties (other than certain rents or royalties derived from the active conduct of a trade or business) and gains from the disposition of passive assets.

 

Based on the composition (and estimated values) of the assets and the nature of the income of China Ceramics and its subsidiaries during its 2015 taxable year, China Ceramics does not believe that it was treated as a PFIC for such year. However, because China Ceramics has not performed a definitive analysis as to its PFIC status for its 2015 taxable year, there can be no assurance in respect to its PFIC status for such year. There also can be no assurance with respect to China Ceramics’ status as a PFIC for its current (2016) taxable year or any future taxable year.

 

If China Ceramics is determined to be a PFIC for any taxable year (or portion thereof) that is included in the holding period of a U.S. Holder of China Ceramics’ shares and, the U.S. Holder did not make a timely QEF election for China Ceramics’ first taxable year as a PFIC in which the U.S. Holder held (or was deemed to hold) shares, a QEF election along with a purging election or a mark-to-market election, each as described below, such holder generally will be subject to special rules for regular U.S. federal income tax purposes with respect to:

 

  · any gain recognized by the U.S. Holder on the sale or other disposition of its shares; and

 

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  · any “excess distribution” made to the U.S. Holder (generally, any distributions to such U.S. Holder during a taxable year of the U.S. Holder that are greater than 125% of the average annual distributions received by such U.S. Holder in respect of the shares of China Ceramics during the three preceding taxable years of such U.S. Holder or, if shorter, such U.S. Holder’s holding period for the shares).

 

Under these rules:

 

  · the U.S. Holder’s gain or excess distribution will be allocated ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the shares;

 

  · the amount allocated to the U.S. Holder’s taxable year in which the U.S. Holder recognized the gain or received the excess distribution or to the period in the U.S. Holder’s holding period before the first day of the first taxable year of China Ceramics in which China Ceramics qualified as a PFIC will be taxed as ordinary income;

 

  · the amount allocated to other taxable years (or portions thereof) of the U.S. Holder and included in its holding period will be taxed at the highest tax rate in effect for that year and applicable to the U.S. Holder; and

 

  · the interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax will be imposed in respect of the tax attributable to each such other taxable year of the U.S. Holder.

 

In general, if we are determined to be a PFIC, a U.S. Holder may avoid the PFIC tax consequences described above in respect to its shares in China Ceramics by making a timely QEF election (or a QEF election along with a purging election). Pursuant to the QEF election, a U.S. Holder generally will be required to include in income its pro rata share of China Ceramics’ net capital gains (as long-term capital gain) and other earnings and profits (as ordinary income), on a current basis, in each case whether or not distributed, in the taxable year of the U.S. Holder in which or with which China Ceramics’ taxable year ends if China Ceramics is treated as a PFIC for that taxable year. A U.S. Holder may make a separate election to defer the payment of taxes on undistributed income inclusions under the QEF rules, but if deferred, any such taxes will be subject to an interest charge.

 

The QEF election is made on a shareholder-by-shareholder basis and, once made, can be revoked only with the consent of the IRS. A U.S. Holder generally makes a QEF election by attaching a completed IRS Form 8621 (Information Return by a Shareholder of a Passive Foreign Investment Company or Qualified Electing Fund), including the information provided in a PFIC annual information statement, to a timely filed U.S. federal income tax return for the taxable year to which the election relates. Retroactive QEF elections generally may be made only by filing a protective statement with such return and if certain other conditions are met or with the consent of the IRS.

 

In order to comply with the requirements of a QEF election, a U.S. Holder must receive certain information from China Ceramics. Upon request from a U.S. Holder, China Ceramics will endeavor to provide to the U.S. Holder, no later than 90 days after the request, such information as the IRS may require, including a PFIC annual information statement, in order to enable the U.S. Holder to make and maintain a QEF election. However, there is no assurance that China Ceramics will have timely knowledge of its status as a PFIC in the future or of the required information to be provided.

 

If a U.S. Holder has made a QEF election with respect to its shares in China Ceramics, and the special tax and interest charge rules do not apply to such shares (because of a timely QEF election for China Ceramics’ first taxable year as a PFIC in which the U.S. Holder holds (or is deemed to hold) such shares or a QEF election, along with a purge of the PFIC taint pursuant to a purging election, as described below), any gain recognized on the sale or other taxable disposition of such shares generally will be taxable as capital gain and no interest charge will be imposed. As discussed above, for regular U.S. federal income tax purposes, U.S. Holders of a QEF generally are currently taxed on their pro rata shares of the QEF’s earnings and profits, whether or not distributed. In such case, a subsequent distribution of such earnings and profits that were previously included in income generally should not be taxable as a dividend to such U.S. Holders. The adjusted tax basis of a U.S. Holder’s shares in a QEF will be increased by amounts that are included in income, and decreased by amounts distributed but not taxed as dividends, under the above rules. Similar basis adjustments apply to property if by reason of holding such property the U.S. Holder is treated under the applicable attribution rules as owning shares in a QEF.

 

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Although a determination as to China Ceramics’ PFIC status will be made annually, an initial determination that it is a PFIC generally will apply for subsequent years to a U.S. Holder who held shares of China Ceramics while it was a PFIC, whether or not it met the test for PFIC status in those subsequent years. A U.S. Holder who makes the QEF election discussed above for China Ceramics’ first taxable year as a PFIC in which the U.S. Holder holds (or is deemed to hold) shares in China Ceramics, however, will not be subject to the PFIC tax and interest charge rules discussed above in respect to such shares. In addition, such U.S. Holder will not be subject to the QEF inclusion regime with respect to such shares for any taxable year of China Ceramics that ends within or with a taxable year of the U.S. Holder and in which China Ceramics is not a PFIC. On the other hand, if the QEF election is not effective for each of the taxable years of China Ceramics in which China Ceramics is a PFIC and during which the U.S. Holder holds (or is deemed to hold) shares in China Ceramics, the PFIC rules discussed above will continue to apply to such shares unless the holder files on a timely filed U.S. income tax return (including extensions) a QEF election and a purging election to recognize under the rules of Section 1291 of the Code any gain that the U.S. Holder would otherwise recognize if the U.S. Holder had sold its shares for their fair market value on the “qualification” date. The qualification date is the first day of China Ceramics’ tax year in which it qualifies as a QEF with respect to such U.S. Holder. The purging election can only be made if such U.S. Holder held shares on the qualification date. The gain recognized by the purging election will be subject to the special tax and interest charge rules treating the gain as an excess distribution, as described above. As a result of the purging election, the U.S. Holder will increase the adjusted tax basis in its shares by the amount of the gain recognized and will also have a new holding period in the shares for purposes of the PFIC rules.

 

Alternatively, if a U.S. Holder, at the close of its taxable year, owns shares in a PFIC that are treated as marketable stock, the U.S. Holder may make a mark-to-market election with respect to such shares for such taxable year. If the U.S. Holder makes a valid mark-to-market election for the first taxable year of the U.S. Holder in which the U.S. Holder holds (or is deemed to hold) shares in China Ceramics and for which China Ceramics is determined to be a PFIC, such holder generally will not be subject to the PFIC rules described above in respect to its shares as long as such shares continue to be treated as marketable stock. Instead, in general, the U.S. Holder will include as ordinary income for each year that China Ceramics is treated as a PFIC, the excess, if any, of the fair market value of its shares at the end of its taxable year over the adjusted tax basis in its shares. The U.S. Holder also will be allowed to take an ordinary loss in respect of the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of its shares over the fair market value of its shares at the end of its taxable year (but only to the extent of the net amount of previously included income as a result of the mark-to-market election). The U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in its shares will be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amounts, and any further gain recognized on a sale or other taxable disposition of the shares in a taxable year in which China Ceramics is treated as a PFIC generally will be treated as ordinary income. Special tax rules may apply if a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election for a taxable year after the U.S. Holder holds (or is deemed to hold) the shares and for which China Ceramics is determined to be a PFIC.

 

The mark-to-market election is available only for stock that is regularly traded on a national securities exchange that is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the NASDAQ Stock Market, or on a foreign exchange or market that the IRS determines has rules sufficient to ensure that the market price represents a legitimate and sound fair market value. Although China Ceramics’ shares are currently listed and traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market, it cannot guarantee that its shares will continue to be listed or traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the availability and tax consequences of a mark-to-market election in respect to the shares of China Ceramics under their particular circumstances.

 

If China Ceramics is a PFIC and, at any time, has a foreign subsidiary that is classified as a PFIC, a U.S. Holder of China Ceramics’ shares generally should be deemed to own a portion of the shares of such lower-tier PFIC, and generally could incur liability for the deferred tax and interest charge described above if China Ceramics receives a distribution from, or disposes of all or part of its interest in, or the U.S. Holder were otherwise deemed to have disposed of an interest in, the lower-tier PFIC. Upon request, China Ceramics will endeavor to cause any lower-tier PFIC to provide to a U.S. Holder no later than 90 days after the request the information that may be required to make or maintain a QEF election with respect to the lower- tier PFIC. However, there is no assurance that China Ceramics will have timely knowledge of the status of any such lower-tier PFIC or will be able to cause the lower-tier PFIC to provide the required information. A mark-to-market election generally would not be available with respect to such a lower-tier PFIC. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax issues raised by lower-tier PFICs.

 

  92  

 

 

A U.S. Holder that owns (or is deemed to own) shares in a PFIC during any taxable year of the U.S. Holder may have to file an IRS Form 8621 (whether or not a QEF election or mark-to-market election is or has been made) with such U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax return and provide such other information as may be required by the U.S. Treasury Department.

 

The rules dealing with PFICs and with the QEF and mark-to-market elections are very complex and are affected by various factors in addition to those described above. Accordingly, U.S. Holders of shares in China Ceramics should consult their own tax advisors concerning the application of the PFIC rules to such shares under their particular circumstances.

 

Non-U.S. Holders

 

Cash dividends paid or deemed paid to a Non-U.S. Holder in respect to its securities in China Ceramics generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax, unless the dividends are effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Holder’s conduct of a trade or business within the United States (and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, are attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base that such holder maintains or maintained in the United States).

 

In addition, a Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on any gain attributable to a sale or other taxable disposition of securities in China Ceramics unless such gain is effectively connected with its conduct of a trade or business in the United States (and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, is attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base that such holder maintains or maintained in the United States) or the Non-U.S. Holder is an individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of such sale or other disposition and certain other conditions are met (in which case, such gain from U.S. sources generally is subject to U.S. federal income tax at a 30% rate or a lower applicable tax treaty rate).

 

Dividends and gains that are effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Holder’s conduct of a trade or business in the United States (and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, are attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base that such holder maintains or maintained in the United States) generally will be subject to regular U.S. federal income tax at the same regular U.S. federal income tax rates applicable to a comparable U.S. Holder and, in the case of a Non-U.S. Holder that is a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, may also be subject to an additional branch profits tax at a 30% rate or a lower applicable tax treaty rate.

 

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

 

In general, information reporting for U.S. federal income tax purposes should apply to distributions made on the securities of China Ceramics within the United States to a U.S. Holder (other than an exempt recipient) and to the proceeds from sales and other dispositions of securities of China Ceramics by a U.S. Holder (other than an exempt recipient) to or through a U.S. office of a broker. Payments made (and sales and other dispositions effected at an office) outside the United States will be subject to information reporting in limited circumstances. In addition, certain information concerning a U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in its securities and adjustments to that tax basis and whether any gain or loss with respect to such securities is long-term or short-term also may be required to be reported to the IRS, and certain holders may be required to file an IRS Form 8938 (Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets) to report their interest in our securities.

 

Moreover, backup withholding of U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 28% generally will apply to dividends paid on the securities of China Ceramics to a U.S. Holder (other than an exempt recipient) and the proceeds from sales and other dispositions of securities of China Ceramics by a U.S. Holder (other than an exempt recipient), in each case who (a) fails to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number; (b) is notified by the IRS that backup withholding is required; or (c) in certain circumstances, fails to comply with applicable certification requirements.

 

  93  

 

 

A Non-U.S. Holder generally may eliminate the requirement for information reporting and backup withholding by providing certification of its foreign status, under penalties of perjury, on a duly executed applicable IRS Form W-8 or by otherwise establishing an exemption.

 

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Rather, the amount of any backup withholding will be allowed as a credit against a U.S. Holder’s or a Non-U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle such holder to a refund, provided that certain required information is timely furnished to the IRS. Holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the application of backup withholding and the availability of and procedures for obtaining an exemption from backup withholding in their particular circumstances.

 

  F. Dividends and paying agents

 

Not required.

 

  G. Statement by experts

 

Not required.

 

  H. Documents on display

 

Documents concerning us that are referred to in this document may be inspected at Junbing Industrial Zone, Anhai, Jinjiang City, Fujian Province, PRC.

 

In addition, we file annual reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We file annual reports on Form 20-F and submit other information under cover of Form 6-K. As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the proxy requirements of Section 14 of the Exchange Act and our officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the insider short-swing disclosure and profit recovery rules of Section 16 of the Exchange Act. Annual reports and other information we file with the Commission may be inspected at the public reference facilities maintained by the Commission at Room 1024, 100 F. Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549, and copies of all or any part thereof may be obtained from such offices upon payment of the prescribed fees. You may call the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference rooms and you can request copies of the documents upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing to the Commission. In addition, the Commission maintains a web site that contains reports and other information regarding registrants (including us) that file electronically with the Commission which can be assessed at http://www.sec.gov.

 

  I. Subsidiary Information

 

Not required.

 

ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Our exposure to interest rate risk primarily relates to our outstanding debts and interest income generated by excess cash, which is mostly held in interest-bearing bank deposits. Interest-earning instruments carry a degree of interest rate risk. As of December 31, 2015, our total outstanding loans for the continuing operations amounted to RMB 40.1 million ($6.2 million) with interest rates in the range of 2.5700% to 3.1700% per annum. We have not been exposed, nor do we anticipate being exposed, to material risks due to changes in market interest rates.

 

Foreign Currency Risk

 

During 2013 and 2014, we entered into certain foreign currency transaction agreements with an unaffiliated financial institution related to the fluctuation in value of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar, for investment and not hedging purposes. The Company recorded fair value gains on these agreements totaling RMB 3,346,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013. However, in 2014, as the Renminbi depreciated against the U.S. dollar, we incurred realized and unrealized losses totaling RMB 54,977,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014 in connection with these agreements. We do not intend to enter into similar investment transactions in the future.

 

  94  

 

 

In June 2014, we, our Chief Executive Officer and the Audit Committee set out to attempt to terminate the foreign currency transaction agreements; and to reach a resolution that would preclude the depletion of our liquid assets by virtue of its having entered into the foreign currency transaction agreements. Ultimately our Chief Executive Officer agreed to cause an entity controlled by him to assume those agreements. On July 31, 2014, Sound Treasure Limited, our largest shareholder and an affiliate of our Chief Executive Officer, executed an agreement (the “Novation”) with us and the financial institution that originated the foreign currency transaction agreements pursuant to which Sound Treasure Limited assumed these agreements and all assets (mainly deposits placed with the financial institution) and all existing and future liabilities arising under these agreements, and we were released from the liabilities arising under the foreign currency transaction agreements. As a result, we will not be required to fund any losses related to these agreements, and will neither suffer any future liabilities arising under those agreements nor enjoy any benefits arising under those agreements.

 

At the time that each of the foreign currency transaction agreements was established with the financial institution, we were required to deposit monies (the “Deposits”) with the financial institution that was the counterparty to the agreements. RMB 6.7 million of a total of RMB 15.6 million in deposits that we made were funded on our behalf by Wong Kung Tok (who is the brother-in-law of our Chief Executive Officer), and were included in a total of RMB 40.2 million in loans owing by us to Wong Kung Tok as of July 9, 2014. In connection with the Novation discussed above, our Chief Executive Officer, Sound Treasure Limited and Wong Kung Tok executed an agreement with the Company on July 31, 2014 (the “Offset Agreement”) pursuant to which loans totaling RMB 20.7 million owed by us to Wong Kung Tok were transferred to Sound Treasure Limited and then were forgiven by Sound Treasure Limited, and in return the Company agreed to forego any claim to RMB 15.6 million in Deposits under the foreign currency transaction agreements which will be transferred to Sound Treasure Limited pursuant to the Novation.

 

The Novation and the Offset Agreement became effective on July 31, 2014. As a result of these transactions, Sound Treasure Limited released us from liabilities aggregating RMB 76.8 million and we transferred ownership of RMB 15.6 million in deposits held at the financial institution from us to Sound Treasure Limited. As a result of the Novation and the Offset Agreement, approximately RMB 76.8 million in liabilities on our books were extinguished in 2014 and the Capital Reserve account was increased by approximately RMB 61.3 million.

 

Except as disclosed above, we do not currently have any significant foreign exchange exposure as our sales and purchases are predominantly denominated in RMB. As of December 31, 2018, nearly all of our monetary assets and monetary liabilities were denominated in RMB except for certain bank balances, bank borrowings and other payables which were denominated in US dollars. However, in the future, a proportion of our sales may be denominated in other currencies as we expand into overseas markets. In such circumstances, we anticipate our primary market risk, if any, to be related to fluctuations in exchange rates. Exchange rate risk may arise if we are required to use different currencies for various aspects of its operations.

 

The Renminbi’s exchange rate with the U.S. dollar and other currencies is affected by, among other things, changes in China’s political and economic conditions. The exchange rate for conversion of Renminbi into foreign currencies is heavily influenced by intervention in the foreign exchange market by the People’s Bank of China. From 1995 until July 2005, the People’s Bank of China intervened in the foreign exchange market to maintain an exchange rate of approximately 8.3 Renminbi per U.S. dollar. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government changed this policy and began allowing modest appreciation of the Renminbi versus the U.S. dollar. However, the Renminbi is restricted to a rise or fall of no more than 0.5% per day versus the U.S. dollar, and the People’s Bank of China continues to intervene in the foreign exchange market to prevent significant short-term fluctuations in the Renminbi exchange rate. On March 17, 2014, the People’s Bank of China announced that the RMB exchange rate flexibility increased to 2% in order to proceed further with reform of the RMB exchange rate regime. These could result in a further and more significant floatation in the RMB’s value against the U.S. dollar. The international reaction to the RMB revaluation has generally been positive. But, international pressure continues to be placed on the Chinese government to adopt an even more flexible currency policy, which could result in significant fluctuation of the RMB against the U.S. dollar.

 

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Very limited hedging transactions are available in China to reduce our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations. While we have no present intention to enter into currency hedging transactions in the future. we may decide to enter into hedging transactions if we are exposed to foreign currency risk. The availability and effectiveness of these hedging transactions may be limited and we may not be able to successfully hedge our exposure at all. In addition, our currency exchange losses may be magnified by PRC exchange control regulations that restrict our ability to convert Renminbi into foreign currency.

 

ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Not required.

 

PART II

 

ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

 

There has been no default of any indebtedness nor is there any arrearage in the payment of dividends.

 

ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

On November 20, 2009, pursuant to the terms of a merger and stock purchase agreement dated August 19, 2009, CHAC merged with and into China Ceramics, resulting in the Redomestication of CHAC to the British Virgin Islands as China Ceramics. At the time of the merger, each outstanding ordinary share of CHAC converted automatically into one share of China Ceramics, and each right to purchase ordinary shares in CHAC automatically converted into an equivalent right to purchase shares in China Ceramics. Accordingly, the shares and warrants became governed by China Ceramics’ Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association. The rights and duties attaching to each share remained substantially equivalent. Immediately following the merger and Redomestication, and as part of the same integrated transaction, China Ceramics acquired all of the outstanding securities of Success Winner.

 

There are no restrictions on working capital and no removal or substitution of assets securing any class of our registered securities.

 

ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2018. Based on that evaluation, management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2018 were effective.

 

Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms and ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 

 

Management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and effected by our management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of our financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with IFRS. Internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of our financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with the authorization of our board of directors and management; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements. 

 

  96  

 

 

Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatement. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with our policies and procedures may deteriorate.

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2018.

 

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, there were no changes in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

It should be noted that while our management believes that our disclosure controls and procedures provide a reasonable level of assurance; our management does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or internal financial controls will prevent all errors or fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived or operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.

  

ITEM 16. RESERVED

 

ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

 

Our Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Roy Tan Choon Kang is an audit committee financial expert as that term is defined in Item 16A(b) of Form 20-F, and “independent” as that term is defined in the NASDAQ listing standards.

 

ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS.

 

We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, and principal accounting officer. A copy of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is available on our website, http://www.cceramics.com /Corporate-Governance.html. The information on our corporate website is not a part of this Annual Report.

 

ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

The following table represents the approximate aggregate fees for services rendered by Centurion ZD CPA & Co.  for the periods indicated:

 

    December 31, 2017     December 31, 2018  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  

Audit Fees – Centurion ZD CPA & Co.

    320       1,628  
Audit Related Fees     -       -  
Tax Fees     -       -  
All Other Fees     -       -  
Total Fees     320       1,628  

 

  97  

 

 

Audit Fees

 

Centurion ZD CPA & Co. audit fees for 2018 and 2017 consisted of fees in relation to the audit of our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

Audit Related Fees

 

There were no audit-related fees.

 

Tax Fees

 

There were no tax fees.

 

All Other Fees

 

There were no other fees.

 

Pre-Approval of Services

 

Our audit committee evaluated and approved in advance the scope and cost of the engagement of an auditor before the auditor rendered its audit and non-audit services.

 

ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES.

 

None.

 

ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

 

No purchase of our securities were made by us or our affiliates in 2018.

 

ITEM 16F. CHANGES IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT.

 

There were no changes to our certifying accountants for the year ended December 31, 2018. 

 

ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

Pursuant to the home country rule exemption set forth under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5615(a)(3), we elected not to hold an annual meeting of shareholders in 2011 or 2015. Neither our Memorandum and Articles of Association nor the law of the British Virgin Islands require us to hold an annual meeting of shareholders.

 

ITEM 16H. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

 

Not applicable.

 

PART III

 

ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

We have elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item 18.

 

  98  

 

 

ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The financial statements are filed as part of this Annual Report beginning on page F-1.

  

ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
No.
  Description
1.1   Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association of China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (1).
     
1.2   Memorandum and Articles of Association of Success Winner Limited (2).
     
1.3   Memorandum and Articles of Association of Stand Best Creation Limited (2).
     
1.4   Operation Charter of Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd. (2).
     
2.1   Specimen Unit Certificate (3).
     
2.2   Specimen Common Stock Certificate (3).
     
3.1   Form of Voting Agreement (2).
     
4.1   Form Warrant (16).
     
10.1   Merger and Stock Purchase Agreement among CHAC, China Ceramics Co., Ltd., Hengda, Success Winner and the Seller (2).
     
10.2   Form of Registration Rights Agreement among CHAC and the founders (3).
     
10.3   Form of Earn-Out Escrow Agreement (2).
     
10.4   Form of Indemnity Escrow Agreement (2).
     
10.5   Form of Lock-Up Agreement for CHAC founders (2).
     
10.6   Form of Lock-Up Agreement (2).
     
10.7   Acquisition Agreement, dated November 19, 2009, by and between Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd., all of the shareholders of Jiangxi Hengdali Constructional Ceramics Co., Ltd., and Jiangxi Hengdali Constructional Ceramics Co., Ltd (8).
     
10.8   License Agreement between Huang Jia Dong and Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd. (6).
     
10.9   China Ceramics Co., Ltd. 2010 Incentive Compensation Plan (7).
     
10.10   Employment Agreement, dated as of February 1, 2016, by and between China Ceramics and Huang Jia Dong (9).
     
10.11   Employment Agreement, dated as of February 1, 2016, by and between China Ceramics and Su Wei Feng (9).
     
10.12   Employment Agreement, dated as of August 1, 2015, by and between China Ceramics and Hen Man Edmund (9).

 

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10.13   Term sheets relating to agreements for derivative instruments (10).
     
10.14   Agreement between Taishin International Bank, Co., Ltd., Stand Best Creation Limited and Sound Treasure Limited, dated July 31, 2014 (10).
     
10.15   Agreement between Stand Best Creation Limited, Huang Jia Dong, Wong Kung Tok, Mr. Huang’s brother-in-law, and Sound Treasure Limited, dated July 31, 2014 (10).
     
10.16   Form of Warrant (11).
     
10.17   Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of April 3, 2017 (13).
     
10.18   Convertible Promissory Note dated as of April 3, 2017 (13).
     
10.19   Form of Securities Purchase Agreement (14).
     
10.20   Placement Agent Agreement dated as of November 29, 2018 (16).
     
8.1   List of Subsidiaries (5).
     
11.1   Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (8).
     
12.1   Certification of the Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
     
12.2   Certification of the Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
     
13.1   Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
15.1   Consent of Centurion ZD CPA & Co., an independent registered public accounting firm.
     
99.1   Letter from Crowe Horwath (HK) CPA Limited, dated March 7, 2016 (12).
     
99.2   Financial Press Release dated May 15, 2017 (15).
     
99.3   Press Release dated April 30, 2019.

 

101.INS   XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

  (1) Incorporated by reference to Annexes C and D of China Ceramics’ Prospectus on Form 424B3 filed with the SEC on November 13, 2009.

 

  (2) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Registration Statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-161557).

 

  (3) Incorporated by reference to exhibits of the same number filed with CHAC’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 or amendments thereto (File No. 333-145085).

 

  100  

 

 

  (4) Incorporated by reference to CHAC’s Form 8-K, dated November 21, 2007.

 

  (5) Incorporated by reference to exhibits of the same number filed with China Ceramics’ Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-164784).

 

  (6) Incorporated by reference to exhibits of the same number filed with China Ceramics’ Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-170237).

 

  (7) Incorporated by reference to Annex A to Exhibit 99.1 filed with China Ceramics’ Report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on November 30, 2010

 

  (8) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on May 17, 2010.

 

  (9) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on April 20, 2016.

 

  (10) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on July 31, 2014.

 

  (11) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on February 8, 2016

 

  (12) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on March 8, 2016

 

  (13) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on April 3, 2017.

 

  (14) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on April 20, 2018.

 

  (15) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on May 15, 2017.
     
  (16) Incorporated by reference to China Ceramics’ Report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on December 3, 2018.

 

SIGNATURES

 

The Registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 

  CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD.
     
April 30 , 2019 By: /s/ Huang Jia Dong
    Name: Huang Jia Dong
    Title: Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

 

  CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD.
     
April 30 , 2019 By: /s/ Hen Man Edmund
    Name: Hen Man Edmund
    Title: Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

  101  

 

 

China Ceramics Co., Ltd. and Its Subsidiaries

 

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

  F- 1  

 

 

中正達 會計師事務所

Centurion ZD CPA & Co.

Certified Public Accountants (Practising)

   

Unit 1304, 13/F., Two Harbourfront, 22 Tak Fung Street, Hunghom, Hong Kong

香港紅磡德豐街22號海濱廣場二期13樓1304室

Tel : (852) 2126 2388 Fax: (852) 2122 9078

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To: The Board of Directors and Shareholders of
China Ceramics Co., Ltd.

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of China Ceramics Co., Ltd. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive loss, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. 

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

/s/ Centurion ZD CPA & Co.  
   
Centurion ZD CPA & Co.   
(successor to Centurion ZD CPA Limited)       

 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2016.

Hong Kong, China

 

April 30, 2019

 

  F- 2  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

 

        Years ended December 31,  
        2018     2017     2016  
    Notes   RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000  
                       
Net sales   5     498,189       821,792       793,745  
                             
Cost of goods sold         499,355       771,438       823,856  
                             
Gross profit (loss)         (1,166 )     50,354       (30,111 )
                             
Other income   5     14,637       14,253       15,233  
Selling and distribution expenses         (11,026 )     (11,962 )     (12,815 )
Administrative expenses         (17,990 )     (17,249 )     (22,764 )
Bad debt expense         (316,438 )     (71,565 )     (23,940 )
Loss from assets devaluation   12-14     (85,021 )     (36,683 )     (230,359 )
Finance costs   6     -       (213 )     (84 )
Other expenses         (1,461 )     (5,220 )     (11,381 )
                             
Loss before taxation   8     (418,465 )     (78,285 )     (316,221 )
                             
Income tax expense   9     209       9,741       5,581  
                             
Loss attributable to shareholders         (418,674 )     (88,026 )     (321,802 )
                             
Other comprehensive income (loss)                            
Exchange differences on translation of financial statements of foreign operations         (807 )     275       (2,288 )
                             
Total comprehensive loss for the period         (419,481 )     (87,751 )     (324,090 )
                             
Loss per share                            
Basic (RMB)   10     (93.18 )     (26.36 )     (116.51 )
Diluted (RMB)   10     (93.18 )     (26.36 )     (116.51 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

  F- 3  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

 

        As of December 31, 2018     As of December 31, 2017  
    Notes   RMB'000     RMB'000  
                 
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES                    
NONCURRENT ASSETS                    
Property and equipment, net   12     46       87,316  
Investment property, net   13     -       4,994  
Land use rights, net   14     -       4,364  
Deferred tax assets   9     -       209  
Total noncurrent assets         46       96,883  
                     
CURRENT ASSETS                    
Inventories, net   16     127,346       191,667  
Trade receivables, net   17     224,114       532,361  
Other receivables and prepayments   18     4,673       2,152  
Income tax refundable         27       27  
Restricted Cash   19     1,719       -  
Cash and bank balances   19     9,016       2,328  
Total current assets         366,895       728,535  
                     
CURRENT LIABILITIES                    
Trade payables   20     24,329       61,084  
Accrued liabilities and other payables   21     25,894       29,719  
Amounts owed to related parties   28     36,203       36,017  
Taxes payable         4,497       3,862  
Total current liabilities         90,923       130,682  
                     
NET CURRENT ASSETS         275,972       597,853  
                     
NET ASSETS         276,018       694,736  
                     
EQUITY                    
Share capital   23     306       206  
Reserves   24     275,712       694,530  
Total stockholders' equity         276,018       694,736  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidate financial statements.

 

  F- 4  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

 

    Share capital     Share
premium
    Reverse
recapitalization
reserve
    Merger
reserve
    Share-based
payment
reserves
    Statutory
reserve
    Capital
reserve
    Retained
earnings
    Currency
translation
reserve
    Total equity  
    RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000  
Notes   Note 23           Note 24(e)     Note 24©     Note 24(d)     Note 24(a)     Note 24(f)           Note 24(b)        
                                                             
Balance at January 1, 2016     137       659,507       (507,235 )     58,989       123,513       134,688       61,266       554,917       1,058       1,086,840  
                                                                                 
Net loss for the year     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (321,802 )     -       (321,802 )
Exchange difference on transaction of financial statements of foreign operations     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (2,288 )     (2,288 )
Total comprehensive loss for the year     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (321,802 )     (2,288 )     (324,090 )
Issuance of new shares     14       9,685       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       9,699  
Transfer to statutory reserves     -       -       -       -       -       655       -       (655 )     -       -  
Balance at December 31, 2016     151       669,192       (507,235 )     58,989       123,513       135,343       61,266       232,460       (1,230 )     772,449  
                                                                                 
Net loss for the year     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (88,026 )     -       (88,026 )
Exchange difference on transaction of financial statements of foreign operations     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       275       275  
Total comprehensive loss for the year     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (88,026 )     275       (87,751 )
Issuance of new shares     53       9,691       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       9,744  
Equity compensation     2       -       -       -       292       -       -       -       -       294  
Transfer to statutory reserves     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Balance at December 31, 2017     206       678,883       (507,235 )     58,989       123,805       135,343       61,266       144,434       (955 )     694,736  
                                                                                 
Initial application of IFRS 9 (Note 3)     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (15,118 )     -       (15,118 )
Restated balance at January 1, 2018     206       678,883       (507,235 )     58,989       123,805       135,343       61,266       129,316       (955 )     679,618  
Net loss for the year     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (418,674 )     -       (418,674 )
Exchange difference on transaction of financial statements of foreign operations     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (807 )     (807 )
Total comprehensive loss for the year     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (418,674 )     (807 )     (419,481 )
Issuance of new shares     97       15,165       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       15,262  
Equity compensation     3       -       -       -       616       -       -       -       -       619  
Transfer to statutory reserves     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Balance at December 31, 2018     306       694,048       (507,235 )     58,989       124,421       135,343       61,266       (289,358 )     (1,762 )     276,018  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

 

  F- 5  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

        Years ended December 31,        
        2018     2017     2016  
    Notes   RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000  
                       
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                            
Loss before taxation         (418,465 )     (78,285 )     (316,221 )
Adjustments for                            
Amortization of land use rights   14     108       143       369  
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment   12     11,500       15,371       44,583  
(Gain) loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment   12     -       (70 )     6,246  
Write down of inventories   16     55,973       (2,733 )     75,078  
Bad debt provision of trade receivables         316,438       71,565       23,940  
Loss from assets devaluation   12-14     85,021       36,683       230,359  
Share based compensation   26     619       294       -  
Interest expense (income)         -       206       (1,791 )
Foreign exchange loss         -       -       84  
Operating cash flows before working capital changes         51,194       43,174       62,647  
Decrease in inventories         8,347       23,808       19,034  
Increase in trade receivables         (23,309 )     (50,384 )     (67,578 )
Decrease (Increase) in other receivables and prepayments         (2,521 )     12,058       8,481  
Decrease in trade payables         (36,755 )     (23,173 )     (26,010 )
Increase in taxes payable         635       -       -  
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities, other payables, and amounts owed to related parties         (3,825 )     (7,529 )     7,641  
Cash generated from (used in) operations         (6,234 )     (2,046 )     4,215  
Interest paid         -       -       (84 )
Income tax paid         -       -       (12,816 )
                             
Net cash used in operating activities         (6,234 )     (2,046 )     (8,685 )
                             
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                            
Acquisition of fixed assets         -       (5,618 )     -  
Proceed from disposal of property, plant and equipment         -       70       1,000  
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash         (1,719 )     -       41,672  
Interest received         -       -       1,791  
                             
Net cash used in (generated from) investing activities         (1,719 )     (5,548 )     44,463  
                             
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                            
Insurance of share capital for equity financing   23     15,262       9,537       6,185  
Repayment of short-term loans         -       -       (40,076 )
Advance from related parties         186       -       -  
                             
Net cash generated from (used in) financing activities         15,448       9,537       (33,891 )
                             
NET INCREASE IN CASH & EQUIVALENTS         7,495       1,943       1,887  
CASH & EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR         2,328       110       514  
EFFECT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE DIFFERENCES         (807 )     275       (2,291 )
                             
CASH & EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR         9,016       2,328       110  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

  F- 6  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO. LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Three Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018

 

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

 

China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (“China Ceramics” or the “Company”) is a British Virgin Islands company operating under the BVI Business Companies Act (2004) with its shares listed on the NASDAQ (“symbol: CCCL”). Its predecessor company, China Holdings Acquisition Corp. (“CHAC”), was incorporated in Delaware on June 22, 2007, and was organized as a blank check company for the purpose of acquiring, through a stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, or controlling, through contractual arrangements, an operating business, that has its principal operations in Asia. The Company has no operations and has no assets or liabilities of consequence outside its investments in its operating subsidiaries. The head office of the Company is located at Junbing Industrial Zone, Jinjiang City, Fujian Province, the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”).

 

On November 20, 2009, CHAC merged with and into China Ceramics, its wholly owned British Virgin Islands subsidiary, with China Ceramics surviving the merger (the “Redomestication”). On the same day, pursuant to the terms of a merger and stock purchase agreement dated August 19, 2009 (the “acquisition agreement”), China Ceramics acquired all of the outstanding securities of Success Winner Limited (“Success Winner”) held by Mr. Wong Kung Tok in exchange for US$ 10.00 and 5,743,320 shares of China Ceramics (the “Success Winner Acquisition”). The total number of issued and outstanding shares of China Ceramics immediately after the acquisition was 8,950,171.

 

Prior to the Success Winner Acquisition on November 20, 2009, neither CHAC nor China Ceramics had an operating business.

 

Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd. (“Hengda”), which became the operating entity of China Ceramics in connection with the Success Winner Acquisition, was established on September 30, 1993 under the laws of PRC with 15% of its equity interest owned by Fujian Province Jinjiang City Anhai Junbing Hengda Construction Material Factory (“Anhai Hengda”) and 85% owned by Chi Wah Trading Import and Export Company (“Chi Wah”). Chi Wah is a sole proprietor under the laws of Hong Kong with its legal and equitable interest solely owned by Mr. Wong Kung Tok. Anhai Hengda was owned by Mr. Wong Kung Tok’s family, which was considered an act-in-concert party of Mr. Wong Kung Tok for accounting purposes.

 

Hengda is principally engaged in the manufacture and sale of ceramic tiles used for exterior siding and for interior flooring and design in residential and commercial buildings.

 

Hengda’s owners reorganized the corporate structure in 2008 and 2009 (the “Hengda Reorganization” or the “Reorganization”), as follows:

 

Stand Best Creation Limited (“Stand Best”) was established on January 17, 2008 under the laws of Hong Kong with its paid-up share capital being HK$1.00 divided into 1 ordinary share solely owned by Mr. Wong Kung Tok. Stand Best acquired 100% of Hengda’s equity interest from Anhai Hengda and Chi Wah on April 1, 2008 at the consideration of RMB58,980,000.

 

Success Winner Limited (“Success Winner”) was incorporated in the British Virgin Islands on May 29, 2009 as a limited liability company. Its paid-up and issued capital is US$1 divided into 1 ordinary share solely owned by Mr. Wong Kung Tok.

 

On June 30, 2009, through a capitalization agreement between Mr. Wong Kung Tok and Stand Best, Stand Best capitalized a shareholder loan due to Mr. Wong Kung Tok in the amount of HK$67.9 million (equivalent to approximately RMB58.9 million) through the issuance of an aggregate of 9,999 ordinary shares of HK$1.00 par value which Mr. Wong Kung Tok allotted to Success Winner.

 

On the same date, Mr. Wong Kung Tok transferred his ownership of the remaining 1 ordinary share of Stand Best to Success Winner, thus making Success Winner the sole parent company of Stand Best.

 

  F- 7  

 

 

On January 8, 2010, Hengda completed the acquisition of all voting equity interests of Jiangxi Hengdali Ceramic Materials Co., Ltd. (“Hengdali” or the “Gaoan Facility”), located in Gaoan, Jiangxi Province (the “Hengdali Acquisition”). Hengdali manufactures and sells ceramics tiles used for exterior siding and for interior flooring. In total, Hengda assumed loans of RMB 60.0 million and paid cash consideration of RMB185.5 million for the acquisition.

 

On September 17, 2013, Fujian Province Hengdali Building Materials Co., Ltd. (“Fujian Hengdali”) was incorporated in Pingtan, Fujian Province, 100% owned by Hengda. Fujian Hengdali’s approved scope of business includes sales of building materials and interior and exterior decoration materials. Fujian Hengdali had no operations since the incorporation date, and in August 2017, the Company disposed of Fujian Hengdali for RMB 0 to a third-party. A loss on disposal of RMB 736,000 was recognized in other expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 relating to this transaction.

 

On September 22, 2017, Success Winner incorporated a 100% owned subsidiary Vast Elite Limited (“Vast Elite”) in Hong Kong with an initial registered capital of HKD1. Vast Elite is engaged in the trading of building materials, but had no operations during the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

China Ceramics and its subsidiaries’ (the “Company”) corporate structure as of December 31, 2018 is as follows:

 

 

 

  F- 8  

 

 

Name   Place and date of
incorporation or
establishment/
operations
  Nominal value of
issued ordinary
share
/registered
capital
    Percentage of
equity
attributable to the
Company
    Principal activities
              Direct     Indirect      
Success Winner Limited   British Virgin Islands, 
May 29, 2009
  US$  1       100       -     Investment holding
                                 
Stand Best Creation Limited   Hong Kong, 
January 17, 2008
  HKD  10,000       -       100     Investment holding
                                 
Jinjiang Hengda Ceramics Co., Ltd. (note 1)   PRC, 
September 30, 1993
  RMB  288,880,000       -       100     Manufacture and sale of ceramic tiles
                                 
Jiangxi Hengdali Ceramic Materials Co., Ltd. (note 1)   PRC, 
May 4, 2008
  RMB  55,880,000       -       100     Manufacture and sale of ceramic tiles
                                 
Fujian Province Hengdali Building Materials Co., Ltd (note 2)   PRC, 
September 17,2013
  RMB  1,000,000       -       100     Sale of building and decoration materials
                                 
Vast Elite Limited (note 1)   Hong Kong,
September 22, 2017
  HKD  1       -       100     Trading of building material

 

Note:

1. All The registered capital of Hengda, Hengdali, Fujian Hengdali and Vast Elite had been fully paid up.

2. Fujian Henngali was disposed in August 2017.

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

  2.1 Basis of preparation

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), which collective term includes all applicable individual International Financial Reporting Standards, International Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the IASB.

 

The significant accounting policies that have been used in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are summarized below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented unless otherwise stated. The adoption of new or amended IFRSs and the impacts on the Company’s financial statements, if any, are disclosed in Note 3.

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments that have been measured at fair value.

 

  F- 9  

 

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRSs requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgements about carrying amounts of assets and liabilities not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

 

Judgments made by management in the application of IFRSs that have significant effect on the financial statements and major sources of estimation uncertainty are discussed in Note 4.

 

The consolidated financial statements were approved and authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on May 4, 2018.

 

  2.2 Basis of consolidation

 

The Success Winner Acquisition on November 22, 2009 has been accounted for as a reverse recapitalization. The acquisition agreement resulted in the former owner of Success Winner obtaining effective operating and financial control of the combined entity. Prior to the acquisition, China Ceramics had no operating business. Accordingly, the acquisition does not constitute a business combination for accounting purposes and is accounted for as a capital transaction. That is, the transaction is in substance a reverse recapitalization, equivalent to the issuance of equity interests by Success Winner for the net monetary assets of China Ceramics accompanied by a recapitalization. The consolidated financial statements are a continuation of the financial statements of Success Winner. The assets and liabilities of China Ceramics are recognized at their carrying amounts at the date of acquisition with a corresponding credit to the consolidated equity and no goodwill or other intangible assets are recognized. The equity of the combined entity recognized at the date of acquisition represents the equity balances of Success Winner together with the deemed proceeds from the reverse recapitalization determined as described above. However, the equity structure presented in the consolidated financial statements (number and values of equity instruments issued) reflects the equity structure of the legal parent, China Ceramics. Costs directly attributable to the transaction have been debited to equity to the extent of net monetary assets received.

 

Success Winner and its subsidiaries as a group is regarded as a continuing entity resulting from the Hengda Reorganization since the management of all the entities which took part in the Reorganization were controlled by the same director and shareholder before and immediately after the Reorganization. Immediately after the Reorganization, there was a continuation of the control over the entities’ financial and operating policy decision and risk and benefits to the ultimate shareholders that existed prior to the Reorganization. Accordingly, the reorganization has been accounted for as a reorganization under common control and the financial statements of Success Winner, Stand Best and Hengda have been combined on the basis of merger accounting for all periods presented.

 

The assets and liabilities of the combining entities or businesses are combined using the existing book values from the controlling party’s perspective. No amount is recognized as consideration for goodwill or excess of the acquirer’s interest in the net fair values of the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities over cost at the time of the common control combination. The consolidated statement of comprehensive income includes the results of each of the combining entities or businesses from the earliest date presented or the date of their incorporation/establishment or since the date when the combining entities or businesses first came under common control, where this is a shorter period, regardless of the date of the common control combination.

 

  F- 10  

 

 

The Hengdali Acquisition on January 8, 2010 has been accounted for as a business combination using the acquisition method. Hengdali is a subsidiary of the Company, and the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating policies which accompanies its shareholding of 100% of the voting rights in Hengdali. Therefore, Hengdali as a subsidiary is fully consolidated from January 8, 2010, the date on which control was transferred to the Company.

 

The accounting for the Hengdali Acquisition under the acquisition method, treats the consideration transferred for the acquisition of Hengdali as the fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred and the equity interests issued by the Company. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in this business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date.

 

The excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.

 

The Company’s financial statements consolidate those of the Company and all of its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2018. Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. The Company controls an entity when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. When assessing whether the Company has power, only substantive rights (held by the Company and other parties) are considered. All subsidiaries have a reporting date of December 31.

 

An investment in a subsidiary is consolidated into the consolidated financial statements form the date that control commences until the date that control ceases. Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealized gains or losses on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Company.

 

  2.3 Foreign currency translation

 

The financial statements are presented in RMB (to the nearest thousand), being the currency that best reflects the economic substance of the underlying events and circumstances relevant to the Company. The Company’s operations are conducted through the subsidiaries in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”). The functional currency of these subsidiaries is Renminbi (“RMB”). The functional currency of China Ceramics is the United State dollars (US$).

 

In the individual financial statements of the consolidated entities, foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency of the individual entity using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At the reporting date, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange rates ruling at that date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the reporting date retranslation of monetary assets and liabilities are recognized in profit or loss.

 

Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the date when the fair value was determined and are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated.

 

In the consolidated financial statements, all individual financial statements of foreign operations, originally presented in a currency different from the Company’s presentation currency, have been converted into Renminbi. Assets and liabilities have been translated into Renminbi at the closing rates at the reporting date. Income and expenses have been converted into Renminbi at the exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates, or at the average rates over the reporting period provided that the exchange rates do not fluctuate significantly. Any differences arising from this procedure have been recognized in other comprehensive income and accumulated separately in the currency translation reserve in equity.

 

When a foreign operation is sold, such exchange differences are reclassified from equity to profit or loss as part of the gain or loss on sale.

 

  F- 11  

 

 

The translation of certain RMB amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 into US$ is included in these financial statements solely for the convenience of readers and was made at the rate of RMB6.86 to US$1.00, which was based on the noon buying rate on December 31, 2018 in the City of New York cable transfers of RMB as certified for customers purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Such translation should be construed as representation that RMB amounts could be converted, realized or settled into US$ at the rate stated above or at any other rate.

 

  2.4 Property, plant and equipment

 

Leasehold land and buildings for own use

 

When a lease includes both land and building elements, the Company assesses the classification of each element as a finance or an operating lease separately based on the assessment as to whether substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of each element have been transferred to the Company, unless it is clear that both elements are operating leases in which case the entire lease is classified as an operating lease. Specifically, the minimum lease payments (including any lump sum upfront payments) are allocated between the land and the building elements in proportion to the relative fair values of the leasehold interests in the land element and building element of the lease at the inception of the lease.

 

To the extent the allocation of the lease payments can be made reliably, interest in leasehold land that is accounted for as an operating lease is presented as "land use rights" in the consolidated statements of financial position and is amortized over the lease term on a straight-line basis.

 

All buildings are depreciated over their expected useful lives of 40 years.

 

Other property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated in the consolidated statements of financial position at cost less any accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses.

 

Depreciation is provided to write off the cost less their residual values over their estimated useful lives as follows, using the straight-line method:

 

Plant and machinery 10 years
Motor vehicles 10 years
Office equipment   5 years

 

The assets’ residual values, depreciation methods and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate accounted for on a prospective basis.

 

Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognized. All other costs, such as repairs and maintenance, are charged to profit or loss during the financial period in which they are incurred.

 

An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount.

 

The gain or loss arising on retirement or disposal is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognized in profit or loss.

 

  2.5 Investment property

 

Investment properties are properties held to earn rentals or for capital appreciation.

 

  F- 12  

 

 

Investment properties are initially measured at historical cost, including any directly attributable expenditure. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are measured at their historical cost less any accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses.

 

Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognized. All other costs, such as repairs and maintenance, are charged to profit or loss during the financial period in which they are incurred.

 

An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount.

 

The gain or loss arising on retirement or disposal is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognized in profit or loss.

 

An investment property is derecognized upon disposal or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use or no future economic benefits are expected from its disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the property (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in profit or loss in the period in which the item is derecognized.

 

  2.6 Land use rights

 

Upfront payments made to acquire land held under an operating lease are stated at cost less accumulated amortization and any accumulated impairment losses. Amortization is calculated on a straight line basis over the leasing period of 50 years.

 

  2.7 Goodwill

 

Goodwill arising on an acquisition of a business is carried at cost as established at the date of acquisition of the business less accumulated impairment losses, if any.

 

For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Company’s cash-generating units, or groups of cash-generating units, that is expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination.

 

A cash-generating unit to which goodwill has been allocated is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently whenever there is indication that the unit may be impaired. If some or all of the goodwill allocated to a cash-generating unit was acquired in a business combination during the current annual period, that unit shall be tested for impairment before the end of the current annual period. If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than the carrying amount, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit on a pro – rata basis based on the carrying amount of each asset in the unit. Any impairment loss for goodwill is recognized directly in profit or loss. An impairment loss recognized for goodwill is not reversed in subsequent periods.

 

On disposal of the relevant cash generating unit, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

 

  2.8 Inventories

 

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted average basis, and in the case of work in progress and finished goods, comprises direct materials, direct labor and an appropriate proportion of overhead.

 

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated cost of completion and applicable selling expenses.

 

  F- 13  

 

 

When inventories are sold, the carrying amount of those inventories is recognized as an expense in the period in which the related revenue is recognized. The amount of any write-down of inventories to net realizable value and all losses of inventories are recognized as an expense in the period the write-down or loss occurs. The amount of any reversal of any write-down of inventories is recognized as a reduction in the amount of inventories recognized as an expense in the period in which the reversal occurs.

 

  2.9 Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash at bank and in hand, demand deposits with banks and short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. For the purpose of the statement of cash flows presentation, cash and cash equivalents include bank overdrafts which are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Company’s cash management.

  

  2.10 Financial instruments

  

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized when a group entity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

 

Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value except for trade debtors arising from contracts with customers which are initially measured in accordance with HKFRS 15 since 1 January 2018. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets and financial liabilities (other than financial assets or liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) are added to or deducted from the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are recognized immediately in profit or loss.

 

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or financial liability and of allocating interest income and interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts and payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial asset or financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.

 

Interest income which are derived from the Company’s ordinary course of business are presented as revenue.

 

Financial assets

 

Classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets (upon application of IFRS 9)

 

Financial assets that meet the following conditions are subsequently measured at amortized cost:

 

·         the financial asset is held within a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows; and

 

·         the contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

 

All other financial assets are subsequently measured at fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”).

 

A financial asset is classified as held for trading if:

 

·         it has been acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term; or

 

·         on initial recognition it is a part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Company manages together and has a recent actual pattern of short-term profit-taking; or

 

·         it is a derivative that is not designated and effective as a hedging instrument.

 

In addition, the Company may irrevocably designate a financial asset that are required to be measured at the amortized cost as measured at FVTPL if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch.

 

  F- 14  

 

 

(i)       Amortized cost and interest income

 

Interest income is recognized using the effective interest method for financial assets measured subsequently at amortized cost. Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset, except for financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired. For financial assets that have subsequently become credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the financial asset from the next reporting period. If the credit risk on the credit-impaired financial instrument improves so that the financial asset is no longer credit-impaired, interest income is recognized by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset from the beginning of the reporting period following the determination that the asset is no longer credit impaired.

 

(ii)       Financial assets at FVTPL

 

Financial assets that do not meet the criteria for being measured at amortized cost are measured at FVTPL.

 

Financial assets at FVTPL are measured at fair value at the end of each reporting period, with any fair value gains or losses recognized in profit or loss. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss includes any dividend or interest earned on the financial asset and is included in the “other gains and losses” line item.

 

Impairment of financial assets (upon application IFRS 9)

 

The Company recognizes a loss allowance for expected credit loss (“ECL”) on financial assets which are subject to impairment under IFRS 9 (including trade and other receivables, bank deposits and bank balances). ECLs are based on the difference between the contractual cash flows due in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the Company expects to receive, discounted at an approximation of the original effective interest rate. The expected cash flows will include cash flows from the sale of collateral held or other credit enhancements that are integral to the contractual terms. The amount of ECL is updated at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition.

 

General approach

 

ECLs are recognized in two measurement bases. For credit exposures for which there has not been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, ECLs are provided for credit losses that result from default events that are possible within the next 12-months (a 12-month ECL). For those credit exposures for which there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, a loss allowance is required for credit losses expected over the remaining life of the exposure, irrespective of the timing of the default (a lifetime ECL).

 

At each reporting date, the Company assesses whether the credit risk on a financial instrument has increased significantly since initial recognition. When making the assessment, the Company compares the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the reporting date with the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the date of initial recognition and considers reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort, including historical and forward looking information.

 

The Company considers a financial asset in default when contractual payments are 90 days past due. However, in certain cases, the Company may also consider a financial asset to be in default when internal or external information indicates that the Company is unlikely to receive the outstanding contractual amounts in full before taking into account any credit enhancements held by the Company. A financial asset is written off when there is no reasonable expectation of recovering the contractual cash flows.

 

Financial assets at amortized cost are subject to impairment under the general approach and they are classified within the following stages for measurement of ECLs except for trade receivables which apply the simplified approach as detailed below.

 

Stage 1 — Financial instruments for which credit risk has not increased significantly since initial recognition and for which the loss allowance is measured at an amount equal to 12-month ECLs

 

Stage 2 — Financial instruments for which credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition but that are not credit-impaired financial assets and for which the loss allowance is measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs

 

Stage 3 — Financial assets that are credit-impaired at the reporting date (but that are not purchased or originated credit-impaired) and for which the loss allowance is measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs

  

  F- 15  

 

 

Simplified approach

 

For trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component or when the Company applies the practical expedient of not adjusting the effect of a significant financing component, the Company applies the simplified approach in calculating ECLs. Under the simplified approach, the Company does not track changes in credit risk, but instead recognizes a loss allowance based on lifetime ECLs at each reporting date.

 

The Company assesses at the end of each reporting period whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired. An impairment exists if one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset have an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the Company of financial assets that can be reliably estimated. Evidence of impairment may include indications that a debtor or a group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation and observable data indicating that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults.

 

Financial assets carried at amortized cost

 

For financial assets carried at amortized cost, the Company first assesses whether impairment exists individually for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively for financial assets that are not individually significant. If the Company determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assesses them for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is, or continues to be, recognized are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.

 

The amount of any impairment loss identified is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred). The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate (i.e., the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition).

 

The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the loss is recognized in profit or loss. Interest income continues to be accrued on the reduced carrying amount using the rate of interest used to discount the future cash flows for the purpose of measuring the impairment loss. Loans and receivables together with any associated allowance are written off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery and all collateral has been realised or has been transferred to the Company.

 

If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the estimated impairment loss increases or decreases because of an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is increased or reduced by adjusting the allowance account. If a write-off is later recovered, the recovery is credited to other expenses in the statement of profit or loss.

 

Classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets (before application of IFRS 9 on January 1, 2018)

 

The Company’s financial assets are loans and receivables. The classification depends on the nature and purpose of the financial assets and is determined at the time of initial recognition.

 

Loans and receivables

 

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are initially recognized at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition, loans and receivables (including trade and other receivables, pledged bank deposits, fixed bank deposits with maturity periods over three months and bank balances) are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any identified impairment losses).

 

Impairment of financial assets

 

Financial assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at the end of each reporting period. Financial assets are considered to be impaired when there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows of the financial assets have been affected.

 

  F- 16  

 

 

Objective evidence of impairment could include:

 

·         significant financial difficulty of the issuer or counterparty; or

 

·         breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in interest or principal payments; or

 

·         it becoming probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or financial re-organisation; or disappearance of an active market for that financial asset because of financial difficulties.

 

If any such evidence exists, the impairment loss on trade receivables and other current receivables and other financial assets carried at amortized cost is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate (i.e. the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition of these assets), where the effect of discounting is material. This assessment is made collectively where these financial assets share similar risk characteristics, such as similar past due status, and have not been individually assessed as impaired. Future cash flows for financial assets which are assessed for impairment collectively are based on historical loss experience for assets with credit risk characteristics similar to the collective group.

 

If in a subsequent period the amount of an impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be linked objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized, the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss. A reversal of an impairment loss shall not result in the asset’s carrying amount exceeding that which would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years.

 

Impairment losses are written off against the corresponding assets directly, except for impairment losses recognized in respect of trade receivables included within trade and other receivables and prepayments, whose recovery is considered doubtful but not remote. In this case, the impairment losses for doubtful debts are recorded using an allowance account. When the Company is satisfied that recovery is remote, the amount considered irrecoverable is written off against trade debtors directly and any amounts held in the allowance account relating to that debt are reversed. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously charged to the allowance account are reversed against the allowance account. Other changes in the allowance account and subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off directly are recognized in profit or loss.

 

Derecognition of financial assets

 

The Company derecognizes a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or when it transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity. If the Company neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership and continues to control the transferred asset, the Company recognizes its retained interest in the asset and an associated liability for amounts it may have to pay. If the Company retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred financial asset, the Company continues to recognize the financial asset and recognizes a collateralized borrowing for the proceeds received.

 

On derecognition of a financial asset measured at amortized cost, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognized in profit or loss.

 

Financial liabilities and equity instruments

 

Debt and equity instruments issued by a group entity are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the contractual arrangements and the definitions of a financial liability and an equity instrument.

 

Equity instruments

 

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Company after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recognized at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

 

Effective interest method

 

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.

 

  F- 17  

 

 

Interest expense is recognized on an effective interest basis.

 

Financial liabilities

 

Interest-bearing borrowings are recognized initially at fair value less attributable transaction costs. They are subsequently stated at amortized cost with any difference between the amount initially recognized and redemption value being recognized in profit or loss over the period of the borrowings, together with any interest and fees payable, using the effective interest method.

 

Trade and other payables are initially recognized at fair value. Theys are subsequently stated at amortized cost unless the effect of discounting would be immaterial, in which case they are stated at cost.

 

Derecognition

 

The Company derecognizes a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire.

 

On derecognition of a financial asset in its entirety, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable and the cumulative gain or loss that had been recognized in other comprehensive income and accumulated in equity is recognized in profit or loss.

 

The Company derecognizes a financial liability when, and only when, the Company’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or expire. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable is recognized in profit or loss.

 

  2.11 Derivative financial instruments

 

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

 

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, such as forward currency contracts, for investment purposes. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

 

Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are taken directly to profit or loss.

 

  2.12 Leases

 

Finance leases refers to the situation that the economic ownership of a leased asset is transferred to the lessee if the lessee bears substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the leased asset.

 

All other leases are treated as operating leases. Where the Company has the use of assets under operating leases, payments made under the leases are charged to profit or loss on a straight line basis over the lease terms except where an alternative basis is more representative of the time pattern of benefits to be derived from the leased assets. Lease incentives received are recognized in profit or loss as an integral part of the aggregate net lease payments made. Contingent rental are charged to profit or loss in the accounting period in which they are incurred.

 

All the leases of the Company are operating leases for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

 

  F- 18  

 

 

  2.13 Provisions and contingencies

 

Provisions for product warranties, legal disputes, onerous contracts or other claims are recognized when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made. Where the time value of money is material, provisions are stated at the present value of the expenditure expected to settle the obligation.

 

All provisions are reviewed at each reporting date and adjusted to reflect the current best estimate.

 

Where it is not probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required, or the amount cannot be estimated reliably, the obligation is disclosed as a contingent liability, unless the probability of outflow of economic benefits is remote. Possible obligations, whose existence will only be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more future uncertain events not wholly within the control of the Company are also disclosed as contingent liabilities unless the probability of outflow of economic benefits is remote.

  

  2.14 Share capital

 

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Share capital is determined using the nominal value of shares that have been issued.

 

Any transaction costs associated with the issuing of shares are deducted from share premium (net of any related income tax benefit) to the extent they are incremental costs directly attributable to the equity transaction.

 

  2.15 Revenue recognition

 

Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of goods, net of rebates and discounts. In 2012, the Company paid rebates to some distributors on their annual cash collections. No such rebates were paid to distributors since year 2013. Provided it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue and costs, if applicable, can be measured reliably, revenue is recognized as follows:

 

Sales of goods are recognized upon transfer of the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the customer. This is usually taken as the time when the goods are delivered and the customer has accepted the goods. Once goods are accepted by a customer, there is no continuing management involvement with the goods and the Company does not have the obligation to accept the return of the goods to the Company from the customer.

 

Rental income is recognized based upon our annual rental over the life of the lease under operating lease, using the straight-line method.

 

Interest income is recognized on a time- proportion basis using the effective interest method.

 

  2.16 Impairment of non-financial assets

 

Impairment testing is made on the Company’s goodwill at each reporting date. Property, plant and equipment and land use rights are tested for impairment if there is any indication that the assets may be impaired at the balance sheet date.

 

If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount.

 

Calculation of recoverable amount

 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the greater of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. Where an asset does not generate cash inflows largely independent of those from other assets, the recoverable amount is determined for the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows independently (i.e. a cash-generating unit).

 

  F- 19  

 

 

Recognition of impairment losses

 

An impairment loss is recognized in profit or loss whenever the carrying amount of an asset, or the cash-generating unit to which it belongs, exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses recognized in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to that cash-generating unit (or group of units), and then, to reduce on a pro rata basis the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (or group of units), except that the carrying amount of an asset will not be reduced below its individual fair value less costs of disposal (if measurable) or value in use (if determinable).

 

Reversal of impairment losses

 

In respect of assets other than goodwill, an impairment loss is reversed if there has been a favorable change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed.

 

A reversal of an impairment loss is limited to the asset’s carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized in prior years. Reversals of impairment losses are credited to profit or loss in the year in which the reversals are recognized.

 

  2.17 Employee benefits

 

Retirement benefits

 

The employees of the Company’s PRC subsidiaries are required to participate in a central pension scheme operated by the local municipal government. Contributions are recognized as an expense in profit or loss as employees render services during the year. The Company’s obligation under these plans is limited to the fixed percentage contributions payable.

 

Share-based employee remuneration

 

The Company operates equity-settled share-based remuneration plans for its employees. None of the Company’s plans feature any options for a cash settlement.

 

The fair value of share options granted to employees is recognized as an employee cost with a corresponding increase in the share-based payment reserve within equity. The fair value is measured at the grant date using the Black Scholes Option Pricing Model, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. Where the employees have to meet vesting conditions before becoming unconditionally entitled to the share options, the total estimated fair value of the share options is spread over the vesting period, taking into account the probability that the options will vest.

 

During the vesting period, the number of share options expected to vest is reviewed. Any resulting adjustment to the cumulative fair value recognized in prior years is charged/credited to the profit or loss for the year under review, unless the original employee expenses qualify for recognition as an asset, with a corresponding adjustment to the share-based payment reserve. On the vesting date, the amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of share options that vest (with a corresponding adjustment to the share-based payment reserve) except where forfeiture is only due to not achieving vesting conditions that relate to the market price of the Company’s shares. The equity amount is recognized in the share-based payment reserve until either the option is exercised (when it is transferred to the share premium account) or the option expires (when it is released directly to retained earnings).

 

  2.18 Borrowing costs

 

Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs incurred in connection with the borrowing of funds. Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying asset which necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalized as part of the cost of that asset until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale. Other borrowing costs are expensed when incurred.

 

  F- 20  

 

 

  2.19 Accounting for income taxes

 

Income tax comprises current tax and deferred tax.

 

Current tax and movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized in profit or loss except to the extent that they relate to items recognized in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case the relevant amounts of tax are recognized in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

 

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

 

Deferred tax is calculated using the liability method on temporary differences at the reporting date between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, tax losses available to be carried forward as well as other unused tax credits, to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit, including existing taxable temporary differences, will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, unused tax losses and unused tax credits can be utilized.

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary difference arises from goodwill or from initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither taxable nor accounting profit or loss.

 

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures, except where the Company is able to control the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

Deferred tax is calculated, without discounting, at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period the liability is settled or the asset realized, based on tax rate (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.

 

The carrying amount of a deferred tax asset is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and is reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow the related tax benefit to be utilized. Any such reduction is reversed to the extent that it becomes probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available.

 

Additional income taxes that arise from the distribution of dividends are recognized when the liability to pay the related dividends is recognized.

 

Current tax balances and deferred tax balances, and movements therein, are presented separately from each other and are not offset. Current tax assets are offset against current tax liabilities, and deferred tax assets are offset against deferred tax liabilities, if the Company has the legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts and the following additional conditions are met:

 

  (a) in the case of current tax assets and liabilities, the Company intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously; or

 

  (b) in the case of deferred tax assets and liabilities, if they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either:

 

  (i) the same taxable entity; or

 

  F- 21  

 

 

  (ii) different taxable entities, which, in each future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are expected to be settled or recovered, intend either to settle current tax liabilities and realize the current tax assets on a net basis, or to settle the liabilities and realize the assets simultaneously.

 

  2.20 Research and development activities

 

Costs associated with research activities are expensed in profit or loss as they incur. Costs that are directly attributable to development activities are recognized as intangible assets if, and only if, all of the following have been demonstrated:

  

  (i) the technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that the asset will be available for use or sale;

 

  (ii) the intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it;

 

  (iii) the ability to use or sell the intangible asset;

 

  (iv) how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits;

 

  (v) the availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset; and

 

  (vi) the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development.

 

The amount initially recognized for internally-generated intangible assets is the sum of the expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible asset first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible asset can be recognized, development expenditure is recognized in profit or loss in the period in which it is incurred.

 

Subsequent to initial recognition, internally-generated intangible assets are reported at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as intangible assets that are acquired separately.

 

Gains and losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset, measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, are recognized in profit or loss when the asset is derecognized.

 

  2.21 Segment reporting

 

The Company identifies operating segments and prepares segment information based on the regular internal financial information reported to the Chief Executive Officer and executive directors, who are the Company’s chief operating decision maker, for their decisions about the allocation of resources to the Company’s business components and for their review of the performance of those components.

 

Business segment

 

The Company operates principally in the manufacturing and sale of medium to high-end ceramic tiles. The Chief Executive Officer and executive directors regularly review the Company’s business as one business segment.

 

Geographical segment

 

The business of the Company is engaged entirely in the PRC. The Chief Executive Officer and executive directors regularly review the Company’s business as one geographical segment.

  

  F- 22  

 

 

  2.22 Related parties

 

  (a) A person, or a close member of that person’s family, is related to the Company if that person:

 

  (i) has control or joint control over the Company;

 

  (ii) has significant influence over the Company; or

 

  (iii) is a member of the key management personnel of the Company or the Company’s parent.

 

  (b) An entity is related to the Company if any of the following conditions applies:

 

  (iv) The entity and the Company are members of the same group (which means that each parent, subsidiary and fellow subsidiary is related to the others).

 

  (v) One entity is an associate or joint venture of the other entity (or an associate or joint venture of a member of a group of which the other entity is a member).

 

  (vi) Both entities are joint ventures of the same third party.

 

  (vii) One entity is a joint venture of a third entity and the other entity is an associate of the third entity.

 

  (viii) The entity is a post-employment benefit plan for the benefit of employees of either the Company or an entity related to the Company.

 

  (ix) The entity is controlled or jointly controlled by a person identified in (a).

 

  (x) A person identified in (a)(i) has significant influence over the entity or is a member of the key management personnel of the entity (or of a parent of the entity).

 

Close members of the family of a person are those family members who may be expected to influence, or be influenced by, that person in their dealings with the entity.

 

3. CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND DISCLOSURES

 

  3.1 Adoption of new or amended IFRSs

 

The following amendments to standards have been adopted by the Company for the first time for the financial year beginning on 1 January 2018. The application of the amendments to IFRSs in the current year has had no material impact on the Company's financial performance and positions for the current and prior years and/or on the disclosures set out in these consolidated financial statements.

 

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

 

Amendments to IAS 40 Transfer to Investment Property

 

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments

 

IFRS 9 issued in 2009 introduced new requirements for the classification and measurement of financial assets. IFRS 9 was subsequently amended in 2010 to include requirements for the classification and measurement of financial liabilities and for derecognition, and further amended in 2013 to include the new requirements for general hedge accounting. Another revised version of IFRS 9 was issued in 2014 mainly to include a) impairment requirements for financial assets and b) limited amendments to the classification and measurement requirements by introducing a ‘fair value through other comprehensive income’ (FVTOCI) measurement category for certain simple debt instruments.

 

  F- 23  

 

 

Key requirements of IFRS 9 are described below:

 

  · All recognized financial assets that are within the scope of IAS 39 Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement are subsequently measured at amortized cost or fair value. Specifically, debt investments that are held within a business model whose objective is to collect the contractual cash flows, and that have contractual cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal outstanding are generally measured at amortized cost at the end of subsequent accounting periods. Debt instruments that are held within a business model whose objective is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets, and that have contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding, are measured at FVTOCI. All other debt investments and equity investments are measured at their fair value at the end of subsequent accounting periods. In addition, under IFRS 9, entities may make an irrevocable election to present subsequent changes in the fair value of an equity investment (that is not held for trading) in other comprehensive income, with only dividend income generally recognized in profit or loss.

 

  · With regard to the measurement of financial liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss, IFRS 9 requires that the amount of change in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability is presented in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss. Changes in fair value of financial liabilities attributable to changes in the financial liabilities’ credit risk are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss. Under IAS 39, the entire amount of the change in the fair value of the financial liability designated as fair value through profit or loss was presented in profit or loss.

 

  · In relation to the impairment of financial assets, IFRS 9 requires an expected credit loss model, as opposed to an incurred credit loss model under IAS 39. The expected credit loss model requires an entity to account for expected credit losses and changes in those expected credit losses at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition. In other words, it is no longer necessary for a credit event to have occurred before credit losses are recognized.

   

  · The new general hedge accounting requirements retain the three types of hedge accounting. However, greater flexibility has been introduced to the types of transactions eligible for hedge accounting, specifically broadening the types of instruments that qualify for hedging instruments and the types of risk components of non-financial items that are eligible for hedge accounting. In addition, the effectiveness test has been overhauled and replaced with the principle of an 'economic relationship'. Retrospective assessment of hedge effectiveness is also no longer required. Enhanced disclosure requirements about an entity's risk management activities have also been introduced.

 

The measurement categories for all financial liabilities as of January 1, 2018 have not been impacted by the initial application of IFRS 9.

 

Key changes in the Company’s accounting policies resulting from application of IFRS 9

 

  Impairment under ECL model

 

The Company recognizes a loss allowance for ECL on financial assets which are subject to impairment under IFRS 9 (including trade and other receivables, amounts due from related parties, restricted cash, bank balances and cash). The amount of ECL is updated at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition.

 

Lifetime ECL represents the ECL that will result from all possible default events over the expected life of the relevant instrument. In contrast, 12-month ECL (“12m ECL”) represents the portion of lifetime ECL that is expected to result from default events that are possible within 12 months after the reporting date. Assessment are done based on the Company’s historical credit loss experience, adjusted for factors that are specific to the debtors, general economic conditions and an assessment of both the current conditions at the reporting date as well as the forecast of future conditions.

 

  F- 24  

 

 

The Company always recognizes lifetime ECL for its trade receivables. The ECL on these assets are assessed individually for debtors with significant balances and/or collectively using a provision matrix with appropriate groupings.

 

For all other instruments, the Company measures the loss allowance equal to 12m ECL, unless when there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, the Company recognizes lifetime ECL. The assessment of whether lifetime ECL should be recognized is based on significant increases in the likelihood or risk of a default occurring since initial recognition.

 

Significant increase in credit risk

 

In assessing whether the credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition, the Company compares the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the reporting date with the risk of a default occurring on the financial instrument as at the date of initial recognition. In making this assessment, the Company considers both quantitative and qualitative information that is reasonable and supportable, including historical experience and forward-looking information that is available without undue cost or effort.

 

In particular, the following information is taken into account when assessing whether credit risk has increased significantly:

 

  · an actual or expected significant deterioration in the financial instrument’s external (if available) or internal credit rating;

  

  · significant deterioration in external market indicators of credit risk, e.g. a significant increase in the credit spread, the credit default swap prices for the debtor;

 

  · existing or forecast adverse changes in business, financial or economic conditions that are expected to cause a significant decrease in the debtor’s ability to meet its debt obligations;

 

  · an actual or expected significant deterioration in the operating results of the debtor;

 

  · an actual or expected significant adverse change in the regulatory, economic, or technological environment of the debtor that results in a significant decrease in the debtor’s ability to meet its debt obligations.

 

Irrespective of the outcome of the above assessment, the Company presumes that the credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition when contractual payments are more than 30 days past due, unless the Company has reasonable and supportable information that demonstrates otherwise.

 

The Company considers that default has occurred when the instrument is more than 90 days past due unless the Company has reasonable and supportable information to demonstrate that a more lagging default criterion is more appropriate.

 

Measurement and recognition of ECL

 

The measurement of ECL is a function of the probability of default, loss given default (i.e. the magnitude of the loss if there is a default) and the exposure at default. The assessment of the probability of default and loss given default is based on historical data adjusted by forward-looking information.

 

Generally, the ECL is estimated as the difference between all contractual cash flows that are due to the Company in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the Company expects to receive, discounted at the effective interest rate determined at initial recognition.

 

  F- 25  

 

 

Interest income is calculated based on the gross carrying amount of the financial asset unless the financial asset is credit impaired, in which case interest income is calculated based on amortized cost of the financial asset.

 

As of January 1, 2018, the management of the Company reviewed and assessed the Company’s existing financial assets for impairment using reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 9. The results of the assessment and the impact thereof are detailed below.

 

Summary of effects arising from initial application of IFRS 9

 

Impairment under ECL model

 

The Company applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measure ECL which uses a lifetime ECL for all trade receivables. To measure the ECL, trade receivables have been grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics.

 

Loss allowances for other financial assets at amortized cost mainly comprise of bank balances and cash, other receivables, amounts due from related parties are measured on 12m ECL basis and there had been no significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition.

 

No additional impairment for other financial assets at amortized cost as at January 1, 2018 is recognized as the amount of additional impairment measured under the ECL model is immaterial.

 

Transition

 

The Company has applied the transitional provision in IFRS 9 such that IFRS 9 was generally adopted without restating comparative information. The reclassifications and the adjustments arising from the new ECL rules are therefore not reflected in the statement of financial position as at 31 December 2017, but are recognized in the statement of financial position on January 1, 2018. This means that differences in the carrying amounts of financial assets resulting from the adoption of IFRS 9 are recognized in reserves as at January 1, 2018. Accordingly, the information presented for 2017 does not reflect the requirements of IFRS 9 but rather those of IAS 39.

 

The following tables summarized the impact, net of tax, of transition to IFRS 9 on the opening balance of retained earnings as of January 1, 2018:

 

    RMB’000  
       
Retained earnings as of December 31, 2017     144,434  
Recognition of expected credit losses (“ECLs”) on trade receivables as of January 1, 2018     (15,118 )
Restated retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 (unaudited)     129,316  

 

  3.2 Accounting standards issued but not yet effective  

 

At the date of authorization of these financial statements, certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards have been published by the IASB but are not yet effective, and have not been adopted by the Company

 

IFRS 16 Leases 1

 

1  Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

 

  F- 26  

 

 

IFRS 16 Lease

 

IFRS 16 will result in almost all leases being recognized on the statement of financial position, as the distinction between operating and finance leases is removed. Under the new standard, an asset (the right to use the leased item) and a financial liability to pay rentals are recognized. The only exceptions are short-term and low-value leases. The accounting for lessors will not be significantly changed. The standard will affect primarily the accounting for Company’s operating leases.

 

Management has just commenced its assessment and have not yet determined to what extent its commitments will result in the recognition of an asset and a liability for future payments and how this will affect the Company’s profit and classification of cash flows.

 

The new standard is mandatory for financial years commencing on or after 1 January 2019. The Company does not intend to adopt this standard before its effective date.

 

4. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS

 

The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the accompanying disclosures, and the disclosure of contingent liabilities. Uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets or liabilities affected in future periods.

 

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

 

The Company makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The key sources of estimation uncertainty and key assumptions concerning the future at the end of the reporting period, that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below:

 

Useful lives and impairment assessment of property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and identified impairment losses. The estimation of useful lives impacts the level of annual depreciation expenses recorded. Property, plant and equipment are evaluated for possible impairment on a specific asset basis or in groups of similar assets, as applicable. This process requires management’s estimate of future cash flows generated by each asset or group of assets. For any instance where this evaluation process indicates impairment, the relevant asset’s carrying amount is written down to the recoverable amount and the amount of the write-down is charged against profit or loss.

 

Investment properties are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and identified impairment losses. The estimation of useful lives impacts the level of annual depreciation expenses recorded. Investment properties are evaluated for possible impairment on a specific asset basis or in groups of similar assets, as applicable. This process requires management’s estimate of future cash flows generated by each asset or group of assets. For any instance where this evaluation process indicates impairment, the relevant asset’s carrying amount is written down to the recoverable amount and the amount of the write-down is charged against profit or loss.

 

Impairment loss recognized in respect of property, plant and equipment

 

As of December 31, 2018, the net carrying amount of property, plant and equipment was approximately RMB 46,000 (2017: RMB 87,316,000). An impairment loss of approximately RMB 75,907 ,000 recognized against the original carrying amount of property, plant and equipment. The impairment loss recognized for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was RMB 33,653,000 and RMB 209,919,000, respectively. Determining whether property, plant and equipment are impaired requires an estimation of the recoverable amount of the property, plant and equipment. Such estimation was based on certain assumptions, which are subject to uncertainty and might materially differ from the actual results.

 

  F- 27  

 

 

Impairment loss recognized in respect of investment property

 

As of December 31, 2018, the net carrying amount of investment property was nil (2017: RMB4,994,000). An impairment loss of approximately RMB4,858,000 was recognized against the original carrying amount of investment property. The impairment loss recognized for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was approximately RMB1,617,000 and RMB10,920,000, respectively. Determining whether investment property are impaired requires an estimation of the recoverable amount of the investment property. Such estimation was based on certain assumptions, which are subject to uncertainty and might materially differ from the actual results.

 

Impairment loss recognized in respect of land use rights

 

As of December 31, 2018, the net carrying amount of land use rights was nil (2017: RMB 4,364,000). An impairment loss of approximately RMB 4,256 ,000 was recognized against the original carrying amount of land use rights. The impairment loss recognized for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was RMB 1,413,000 and RMB 9,520,000, respectively. Determining whether land use rights are impaired requires an estimation of the recoverable amount of the land use rights. Such estimation was based on certain assumptions, which are subject to uncertainty and might materially differ from the actual results.

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

Determining whether goodwill is impaired requires an estimation of the value in use of the cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated. The value in use calculation requires the Company to estimate the future cash flows expected to arise from the cash-generating unit and a suitable discount rate in order to calculate present value. Where the actual future cash flows are less than expected, a material impairment loss may arise. No impairment was made on goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2018. The impairment made on goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was nil.

 

Income tax

 

The Company has exposure to income taxes in the PRC. Significant judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes. There are certain transactions and computations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. The Company recognizes liabilities for expected tax issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. When the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recognized, such differences will impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made. The carrying amounts of the Company’s income tax payable as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were nil.

 

Impairment of trade receivables

 

The Company’s management assesses the collectability of trade receivables. This estimate is based on the credit history of the Company’s customers and the current market conditions. Management assesses the collectability of trade receivables at the balance sheet dates and makes the provision, if any. The identification of doubtful debts requires the use of judgment and estimates. Judgment is required in assessing the ultimate realization of these receivables, including the current creditworthiness, past collection history of each customer and on-going dealings with them. Where the expectation is different from the original estimate, such difference will impact the carrying value of trade and other receivables and doubtful debts expenses in the period in which such estimate has been changed. The net carrying amounts of the Company’s trade receivables as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were RMB 224,114,000 and RMB 532,361,000, respectively.

 

  F- 28  

 

 

Net realizable value of inventories

 

Net realizable value of inventories is the management’s estimation of future selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and selling expenses. These estimates are based on the current market condition and the historical experience of selling products of a similar nature. It could change significantly as a result of various market factors. The net carrying amounts of the Company’s inventories as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were RMB127,346,000 and RMB 191,667,000, respectively.

 

Share-based payment transaction

 

The Company measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with employees by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments at the date at which they are granted. Estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions requires determining the most appropriate valuation model, which is dependent on the terms and conditions of the grant. This estimate also requires determining the most appropriate inputs to the valuation model including the expected life of the stock option, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about them. The assumptions and models used for estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions are disclosed in Note 26.

 

5. REVENUE AND OTHER INCOME

 

Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of goods. An analysis of the Company’s revenue and other income is as follows:

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Revenue                        
Sale of goods     498,189       821,792       793,745  
Other income                        
Interest income     36       32       1,791  
Foreign exchange gain     450       -       -  
Gain on disposal of fixed assets     -       70       -  
Reversal of provision for litigation claim originally estimated under current liabilities     -       -       1,650  
Rental income     14,151       14,151       11,792  
      14,637       14,253       15,233  

 

6. FINANCE COSTS

 

Finance costs comprise interest expense on the Company’s bank borrowings:

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Interest on bank borrowings     -       213       84  

   

7. REALIZED AND UNREALIZED FAIR VALUE (LOSS)/GAIN ON DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

 

      For the years ended December 31,  
      2018       2017       2016  
      RMB’000       RMB’000       RMB’000  
Realized and unrealized fair value (loss)/gain on derivative financial instruments   -     -     -  

 

  F- 29  

 

  

8. LOSS BEFORE TAXATION

 

The Company’s loss before taxation is arrived at after charging:

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Cost of inventories recognized as expense (1)     499,355       771,438       823,856  
Depreciation expenses     11,500       15,371       44,583  
Amortization of land use rights     108       143       369  
Auditors’ remuneration                        
–        Audit fees     1,628       320       2,800  
–        Audit-related fees     -       -       -  
      1,628       320       2,800  
Directors’ remuneration                        
–        salaries and related cost     1,418       1,200       1,039  
–        retirement scheme contribution     16       9       9  
–        share-based payments     -       -       -  
Key management personnel (other than directors)                        
–        salaries and related cost     753       1,447       1,644  
–        retirement scheme contribution     24       23       17  
–        share-based payments     619       304       -  
Research and development personnel                        
–        salaries and related cost     789       936       1,056  
–        retirement scheme contribution     78       102       63  
Other personnel                        
–        salaries and related cost     33,023       55,526       52,247  
–        retirement scheme contribution     5,526       8,478       6,000  
Total employee benefit expenses     42,246       68,025       62,075  

 

(1)         Cost of inventories recognized as expense included staff costs of RMB 27,087,000, RMB 48,857,000 and RMB 45,886,000, retirement scheme contribution of RMB 4,135,000, RMB 6,984,000 and RMB 4,845,000, depreciation and amortization expense of RMB 8,457,000, RMB 11,203,000 and RMB 37,545,000, operating lease charges of RMB 13,902,000, RMB 13,902,000 and RMB 13,902,000, and (reversal of ) / write-down of inventories of RMB 55,973,000, RMB (2,733,000) and RMB 75,078,000 for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively, which amounts are also included in the respective total amounts disclosed separately for each of these types of expenses.

  

9. INCOME TAX EXPENSE/(CREDIT)

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Current Tax:                        
PRC Income Tax     -       5,185       2,166  
Over-provision of PRC Income Tax in prior year     -       -       -  
      -       5,185       2,166  
Deferred tax expense     209       4,556       3,415  
      209       9,741       5,581  

 

  F- 30  

 

 

Reconciliation between income tax expense (credit) and (loss) profit before taxation at applicable tax rates is as follows:

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018
RMB’000
    2017
RMB’000
    2016
RMB’000
 
Loss before taxation     (418,465 )     (78,285 )     (316,221 )
Tax calculated at a tax rate of 25%     (104,616 )     (19,571 )     (79,055 )
Tax effect on non-deductible expenses     -       -       30  
Tax effect on different tax rates of group entities operating in other jurisdictions     588       218       3,840  
Impairment losses on property, plant and equipment, and investment property that are not tax deductible     20,191       8,817       55,210  
Impairment losses on land use right that are not tax deductible     1,064       353       2,380  
Inventory provision that are not tax deductible     13,993       (683 )     23,176  
Bad debts expense that are not tax deductible     79,057       6,232       -  
Depreciation and amortization adjustments that are not tax deductible     (15,890 )     (15,617 )     -  
Income tax refund that are not expected to receive     -       24,270       -  
Net operating losses not recognized to deferred tax assets     5,822       5,722       -  
Tax per financial statements     209       9,741       5,581  

 

British Virgin Islands Profits Tax

 

The Company has not been subject to any taxation in this jurisdiction for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

 

Hong Kong Profits Tax

 

The subsidiary in Hong Kong is subject to tax charged on Hong Kong sourced income with a statutory tax rate of 16.5% for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. No Hong Kong profits tax has been provided as the Company has no assessable profit arising in Hong Kong for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

 

PRC Income Tax

 

The subsidiaries in the PRC are subject to the enterprise income tax in accordance with “PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law” (“EIT Law”), and the applicable income tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 is 25%.

 

Under the prevailing EIT Law and its relevant regulations, any dividends paid by the Company’s PRC subsidiaries to an overseas parent made out of profits earned after January 1, 2008 to non-PRC corporate residents are subject to a 10% PRC dividend withholding tax, unless reduced by tax treaties or arrangements. In addition, under the Sino-Hong Kong Double Tax Arrangement and its relevant regulations, a qualified Hong Kong tax resident will be liable for withholding tax at the rate of 5% for dividend income derived from the PRC if the Hong Kong tax resident is the “beneficial owner” and holds 25% or more of the equity interests of the PRC company. Deferred tax liabilities have been provided for based on the expected dividends to be distributed from these subsidiaries in the foreseeable future in respect of the profits generated since 1 January 2008.

 

Dividends withholding tax represents tax charged/to be charged by the PRC tax authority on dividends distributed or intended to be distributed by the Company’s subsidiaries in Mainland China during the years.

 

Deferred tax (assets)/liabilities recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position and the movements during the years are as follows:

  

    Dividend withholding     Inventory     Impairment     Bad debt     Net operating     Depreciation and        
Deferred tax arising from:   tax     provision     loss     allowance     loss     amortization     Total  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
As of January 1, 2016     1,404       (9,375 )     -       -       -       (209 )     (8,180 )
Charges/(credits) for the year     (1,404 )     4,610       -       -       -       209       3,415  
As of December 31, 2016     -       (4,765 )     -       -       -       -       (4,765 )
Charges/(credits) for the year     -       4,765       -       -       -       (209 )     4,556  
As of December 31, 2017     -       -       -       -       -       (209 )     (209 )
Charges/(credits) for the year     -       -       -       -       -       209       209  
As of December 31, 2018     -       -       -       -       -       -       -  

 

  F- 31  

 

 

Hengda and Hengdali, the Company’s PRC subsidiaries, have cumulative undistributed earnings of RMB329,503,000, RMB 380,109,000 and RMB 409,816,000, as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, which are included in consolidated retained earnings. Deferred tax liabilities of RMB nil has been recognized to the extent of distributable profits earned by Hengda as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. No provision has been made for deferred taxes related to future repatriation of the remaining earnings, as the Company controls the dividend policy of these PRC subsidiaries and it has been determined that it is probable that these profits will not be distributed in the foreseeable future. If the Company were to distribute these cumulated earnings in the foreseeable future, the deferred tax liabilities of RMB 16,475,000, RMB 19,005,000 and RMB 20,491,000 would be recognized as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

For the purpose of presentation in the consolidated statements of financial position, certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset. The following is the analysis of the deferred tax balances in the consolidated statements of financial position for financial presentation purposes:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018
RMB’000
    2017
RMB’000
 
Deferred tax assets     -       (209 )
Deferred tax liabilities     -       -  
      -       (209 )

 

10. LOSS PER SHARE

   

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
Loss attributable to holders of ordinary shares (RMB’000):     (418,674 )     (88,026 )     (321,802 )
                         
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding used in computing basic and diluted (loss)/earnings per share     4,493,036       3,339,487       2,761,998  
                         
Loss per share - basic (RMB)     (93.18 )     (26.36 )     (116.51 )
Loss per share - diluted (RMB)     (93.18 )     (26.36 )     (116.51 )

 

Warrants to purchase common stock are not included in the diluted loss per share calculations when their effect is antidilutive. For the year ended December 31, 2018, about 728,571 of potential common stock related to outstanding warrants and stock options were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share as such shares are antidilutive when there is a loss. There were 178,571 shares for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.

 

The 2015 weighted average shares used to compute basic and diluted EPS were retroactively restated to reflect the 8:1 reverse split made in June 28, 2016.

 

11. GOODWILL

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
             
Carrying amount     3,735       3,735  
Accumulated impairment losses     (3,735 )     (3,735 )
      -       -  

 

  F- 32  

 

 

On January 8, 2010, the Company consummated the acquisition of all voting equity interests of Hengdali (which is considered to be a CGU), and the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill (Note 27).

 

The Company performs a goodwill impairment test in year 2015 and was fully impaired at that time. At the end of the reporting period, the Company assessed the recoverable amount of goodwill, and determined that no further impairment of goodwill was required for the 2016 year-end because it was written down to zero in 2015. The impairment loss on goodwill recognized during the year ended December 31, 2015 was RMB 3,735,000.

 

12. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

 

    Buildings
RMB'000
    Plant and
machinery
RMB'000
    Motor
vehicles
RMB'000
    Office
equipment
RMB'000
    Total
RMB'000
 
Cost                                        
At January 1,2017     344,758       745,358       4,915       1,824       1,096,855  
Additions     4,872       684       -       62       5,618  
Disposals     -       -       (690 )     -       (690 )
At December 31, 2017     349,630       746,042       4,225       1,886       1,101,783  
Additions     -       -       -       -       -  
Disposals     -       -       -       -       -  
At December 31,2018     349,630       746,042       4,225       1,886       1,101,783  
                                         
Accumulated depreciation                                        
At January 1,2017     46,275       325,954       4,186       1,498       377,913  
Depreciation charge     1,759       13,374       38       20       15,191  
Disposals     -       -       (504 )     -       (504 )
At December 31, 2017     48,034       339,328       3,720       1,518       392,600  
Depreciation charge     1,263       10,054       28       18       11,363  
At December 31, 2018     49,297       349,382       3,748       1,536       403,963  
                                         
Impairment                                        
At January 1,2017     241,838       345,664       613       285       588,400  
Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss     18,230       15,398       19       6       33,653  
Disposals     -       -       (186 )     -       (186 )
At December 31, 2017     260,068       361,062       446       291       621,867  
Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss     40,265       35,598       31       13       75,907  
At December 31, 2018     300,333       396,660       477       304       697,774  
                                         
Carrying amount                                        
At December 31, 2017     41,528       45,652       59       77       87,316  
At December 31, 2018     -       -       -       46       46  

 

All property, plant and equipment held by the Company are located in the PRC. The Company’s buildings are situated on land under medium-term land use rights.

 

For the buildings owned collectively by the Company and other three unrelated companies, the cost of buildings are stated according to the amounts paid by the Company for its part of buildings, which represent the Company’s interests in the buildings. Buildings are depreciated over their expected useful lives of 40 years. These buildings’ cost was RMB 2,913,000, and accumulated depreciation of RMB 1,226,000 and RMB 1,226,000 as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and an impairment allocation of RMB 1,687,000 and RMB 1,687,000  as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.  No property, plant and equipment was pledged to secure the Company interest-bearing bank borrowings at December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

  F- 33  

 

 

At the end of the reporting period, the Company assessed the recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment, and determined that carrying amount was impaired by RMB75,907,000  (2017: RMB33,653,000).

 

Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment in 2018, 2017 and 2016 was nil, RMB 70,000 gain, and RMB6,246,000 loss, respectively.

 

13. INVESTMENT PROPERTY

  

    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000    
Cost                
At December 31, 2018 and 2017     37,253       37,253  
                 
Accumulated depreciation                
As of beginning of the year     (1,750 )     (1,570 )
Depreciation for the year     (136 )     (180 )
As of end of the year     (1,886 )     (1,750 )
                 
Impairment for the year                
As of beginning of the year     (30,509 )     (28,892 )
Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss transferred from property, plant and equipment     (4,858 )     (1,617 )
As of end of the year     (35,367 )     (30,509 )
                 
Carrying amount                
At December 31, 2018 and 2017     -       4,994  

  

The fair value of this investment property, which is the estimation of the depreciated replacement cost, as of December 31, 2018 was RMB35,400,000.

 

At the end of the reporting period, the Company assessed the recoverable amount of investment property, and determined that carrying amount was impaired by RMB4,858,000 (2017: 1,617,000).

 

14. LAND USE RIGHTS

 

The Company’s land use rights are under medium-term leases in the PRC, and are analyzed for reporting purposes as follows:

 

    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Cost                
At December 31, 2018 and 2017     32,619       32,619  
Accumulated amortization                
At beginning of the year     (4,541 )     (4,398 )
Amortization     (108 )     (143 )
At end of the year     (4,649 )     (4,541 )
                 
Impairment                
At beginning of the year     (23,714 )     (22,301 )
Impairment for the year     (4,256 )     (1,413 )
                 
At end of the year     (27,970 )     (23,714 )
                 
Carrying amount                
At December 31, 2018 and 2017     -       4,364  

 

  F- 34  

 

 

No land use rights of the Company were pledged to the banks as securities for the Company’s interest-bearing bank borrowings at December 31, 2018 and 2017. At the end of the reporting period, the Company assessed the recoverable amount of land use right, and determined that carrying amount was impaired by RMB 4,256,000 (2017: 1,413,000).

 

15. LONG-TERM PREPAID EXPENSES

 

      As of December 31,  
      2018       2017  
      RMB’000       RMB’000  
Prepaid advertising fees     -       -  

 

The amount represents the advertising fees paid in advance covering periods over one year.

 

16. INVENTORIES

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Raw materials     15,738       20,896  
Work in progress     1,526       5,206  
Finished goods     110,082       165,565  
      127,346       191,667  

 

The analysis of the amount of inventories recognized as an expense and included in profit or loss is as follows:

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Carrying amount of inventories sold     443,382       774,171       748,778  
Write down (reversal) of inventories (included in cost of sales)     55,973       (2,733 )     75,078  
      499,355       771,438       823,856  

 

17. TRADE RECEIVABLES

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Trade receivables     650,963       627,865  
Less: provision for bad debt allowance     (426,849 )     (95,504 )
      224,114       532,361  

 

The Company’s trade receivables are denominated in Renminbi and non-interest bearing. In 2011, the credit period granted to distributors was generally for a period within 90 days. Since the end of 2012, the Company had extended the collection period to 150 days to address funding pressures of its distributors. Other customers were granted a credit period of 90 days in the year ended December 31, 2013, and extended to 120 days in the year ended December 2016 and 2017. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company accrued RMB 426,849,000 and RMB 95,504,000, respectively, as a provision for bad debt related to the amount of outstanding trade receivables that did not conform with the Company’s credit policy.

 

  F- 35  

 

 

All of the trade receivables are expected to be recovered within one year. An aging analysis of the Company's trade receivables, based on the invoice date, is as follows:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Within 90 days     57,785       246,441  
Between 3 and 6 months     69,037       275,329  
More than 6 months     97,292       10,591  
      224,114       532,361  

 

An aging analysis of trade receivables that were neither past due nor impaired or past due but not impaired, is as follows:

 

          Past due but not impaired        
    Neither past due nor
impaired
    Less than
30 days
    31 to 120 days     Over 120
days
    Sub-total     Total  
    RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000     RMB'000  
December 31, 2017     521,770       10,591       -       -       -       532,361  
December 31, 2018     126,823       97,291       -       -       -       224,114  

 

Receivables that were neither past due nor impaired relate to a large number of customers for whom there was no recent history of default. All amounts are short-term. The Company does not hold any collateral over these receivables.

 

The net carrying value of trade receivables is considered a reasonable approximation of fair value. As of December 31, 2018, the Company is exposed to certain credit risks as 30% and 97% of the total trade receivables were due from the Company's largest and the five largest customers, respectively. As of December 31, 2017, the Company is exposed to certain credit risks as 13% and 43% of the total trade receivables were due from the Company's largest and the five largest customers, respectively.

 

18. OTHER RECEIVABLES AND PREPAYMENTS

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Prepayments for advertising     4,673       2,152  
VAT recoverable     -       -  
      4,912       2,152  

 

All of the other receivables and prepayments are expected to be recovered or recognized as expense within one year. The net carrying value of these balances is considered a reasonable approximation of fair value.

 

  F- 36  

 

 

19. CASH AND BANK BALANCES

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Cash on hand     35       42  
Cash at banks     8,981       2,286  
Cash and bank balances     9,016       2,328  

 

Cash and bank balances are denominated in the following currencies:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Renminbi     203       171  
Hong Kong dollars     6       6  
US dollars     8,807       2,151  
      9,016       2,328  

 

Bank balances denominated in Renminbi are deposited with banks in the PRC and are not freely convertible to foreign currencies. The conversion of these RMB denominated balances into foreign currencies is subject to the foreign exchange control rules and regulations promulgated by the PRC Government.

 

Bank balances denominated in US dollars are mainly held in bank accounts in Hong Kong and the United States of America.

 

Cash at banks and bank deposits comprise cash held by the Company and short-term bank deposits with an original maturity of three months or less. The deposits carry interest at prevailing market rates.

 

As of December 31, 2018, the Company has restricted cash of RMB 1,719,000 (2017: nil), of which nil (2017: nil) was used as collateral for the Company’s bank borrowings, and nil was used as collateral for the Company’s financial derivatives (2017: nil). They were temporarily not available for general use by the Company.

 

20. TRADE PAYABLES

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Trade payables     24,329       61,084  

 

Trade payables are denominated in Renminbi, non-interest bearing and generally settled within 120-day terms. All of the trade payables are expected to be settled within one year. The carrying value of trade payables is considered to be a reasonable approximation of fair value.

 

21. ACCRUED LIABILITIES AND OTHER PAYABLES

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Deposits received from distributors     16,200       17,200  
Accrued salary     2,331       3,804  
Accrued rent, electricity and water     2,500       3,641  
Accrued other taxes     1,541       1,728  
Others     3,322       3,346  
      25,894       29,719  

 

  F- 37  

 

 

Accrued liabilities and other payables are denominated in the following currencies:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Renminbi     25,859       29,696  
US dollars     35       23  
      25,894       29,719  

 

Deposits received represent deposits from the Company’s distributors. The Company usually requests a deposit from RMB 400,000 to RMB 1,000,000 from new distributors upon signing a distributorship agreement as security for the performance of their obligations under the distributorship agreement.

 

Accrued liabilities consist mainly of accrued rental, wages and utility expenses.

 

The carrying value of accrued liabilities and other payables is considered to be a reasonable approximation of fair value.

 

22. INTEREST- BEARING BANK BORROWINGS (SECURED)

 

      As of December 31,  
      2018       2017  
      RMB’000       RMB’000  
Short-term bank borrowings - repayable within one year – shown under current liabilities     -       -  
Long-term bank borrowings - repayable more than one year but not more than 5 years - shown under non-current liabilities     -       -  
      -       -  

 

Bank borrowings are denominated in the following currencies:

 

      As of December 31,  
      2018       2017  
      RMB’000       RMB’000  
Renminbi     -       -  
US dollars     -       -  
      -       -  

 

The exposure of the Company’s loans is as follows:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    Effective 
interest rates %
    RMB’000     Effective 
interest rates %
    RMB’000  
Fixed rate borrowings:             -               -  
Variable rate borrowings:     - %     -       - %     -  
              -               -  

 

All of the Company’s bank borrowings are carried at amortized cost. The carrying values of the Company’s bank borrowings approximate their fair value.

 

The Company’s banking facilities were pledged by bank deposits, the Company’s buildings and land use rights, land use rights of third parties, and guaranteed by related parties, a subsidiary of the Company and third parties. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, such banking facilities were utilized to the extent of nil.

 

  F- 38  

 

 

As of the end of the reporting periods, the Company has the following undrawn bank borrowing facilities:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Variable-rate - expiring within one year     -       -  

 

23. SHARE CAPITAL

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    Number     US$     Number     US$  
    of shares     ‘000     of shares     ‘000  
Authorized:                                
Ordinary shares of US$0.008 each                                
At January 1 and December 31     51,000,000       400       51,000,000       400  

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    Number     RMB     Number     RMB  
    of shares     ‘000     of shares     ‘000  
Issued:     5,678,703       306       3,851,485       206  
Outstanding and fully paid:                                
Ordinary shares of US$0.008 each                                
At January 1     3,851,485       206       2,820,939       151  
Issuance of new shares     1,770,299       97       1,003,152       53  
Equity compensation     56,919       3       27,394       2  
At December 31     5,678,703       306 (2)     3,851,485       206 (1)

 

(1)  Equivalent to US$31,000

(2)  Equivalent to US$45,000

 

On November 21, 2007, CHAC consummated its initial public offering, or IPO, of 12,800,000 units, including 800,000 units subject to an over-allotment option, with each unit consisting of one ordinary share, US$ 0.001 par value per share, and one warrant to purchase one ordinary share at an exercise price of US$ 7.50 per share. The units were sold at an offering price of US$ 10.00 per unit, generating total gross proceeds of US$ 128,000,000. Simultaneously with the consummation of the IPO, CHAC consummated the private sale of 2,750,000 warrants to CHAC’s founders at a price of US$ 1.00 per warrant, generating total proceeds of US$ 2,750,000. CHAC’s founders had 3,200,000 ordinary shares as founding shares.

 

All ordinary shares are equally eligible to receive dividends and represent one vote at shareholders’ meetings of the Company.

 

Each warrant entitled the holder to purchase shares at US$ 7.50 per share, subject to adjustment in the event of stock dividends and splits, reclassifications, combinations and similar events for a period commencing on the later of: (a) completion of the business combination and (b) one year from the closing date of the IPO, and ending November 16, 2012. On November 16, 2012, all of the share purchase warrants expired and ceased to trade.

 

  F- 39  

 

 

On November 20, 2009, pursuant to the acquisition agreement, China Ceramics acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Success Winner held by Mr. Wong Kung Tok in exchange for US$ 10.00 and 5,743,320 shares of China Ceramics. In addition, 8,185,763 shares of China Ceramics were placed in escrow (the “Contingent Shares”) and for release to Mr. Wong Kung Tok in the event certain earnings and stock price thresholds are achieved. Of the Contingent Shares, up to 5,185,763 Contingent Shares could have been released based on achieving growth in either net earnings before tax or net earnings after tax, following the completion of an annual audit. Additionally, 3,000,000 Contingent Shares could have been released if China Ceramics shares closed at or above certain share price targets for any twenty trading days within a thirty trading day period prior to April 30, 2012. The Contingent Shares were to be released without regard to continued employment and were only contingent on future earnings and the stock price of China Ceramics. On May 24, 2010, the Company issued 1,214,127 shares to Mr. Wong Kung Tok based on the audited earnings before tax result for the fiscal year 2009. On April 7, 2011, the Company issued 1,794,800 shares to Mr. Wong Kung Tok based on the audited earnings before tax result for the fiscal year 2010. On April 3, 2012, the Company issued 2,176,836 shares to Mr. Wong Kung Tok based on the audited earnings before tax result for the fiscal year 2011. No further Contingent Shares may be issued to Mr. Wong Kung Tok. The issuance of the Contingent Shares is accounted for as a stock dividend.

 

The share price targets for the issuance of the additional 3,000,000 Contingent Shares were not met by April 30, 2012.

 

Also, concurrent with the Success Winner Acquisition, the Company purchased an aggregate of 11,193,149 ordinary shares from the public stockholders for an aggregate purchase price of approximately RMB 752.2 million in transactions intended to assure the successful completion of the business combination. In connection with the closing of the Success Winner Acquisition, the CHAC’s founders forfeited 1,600,000 of their founders’ shares to CHAC for cancellation.

 

On May 25, 2010, the Company purchased 996,051 public warrants from four warrant holders (all managed by a single entity) at a price of US$ 1.00 per warrant in a privately negotiated transaction. The total amount paid to purchase the public warrants was US$ 996,051 (equivalent to RMB 6,803,000) and has been deducted from shareholders’ equity.

 

The Company initiated an exchange offer (the “Offer”) pursuant to which holders of all 14,553,949 of the Company’s outstanding warrants (the “Warrants”) had the opportunity to acquire the Company’s shares through a warrant for share exchange. The Company issued one share for every four warrants tendered. On September 1, 2010, pursuant to the terms of the tender offer, 11,779,649 warrants were exchanged for 2,944,904 shares, which are freely tradable.

 

On November 24, 2010, the Company closed an underwritten public offering of 3,350,000 shares at a price of US$7.75 per share for gross proceed of approximately RMB172.7 million. The total net proceeds of the offering to the Company, after deduction of underwriters’ commissions and discounts and estimated transaction expenses, were approximately RMB 159.6 million.

 

On February 4, 2016, we announced the pricing of public offering of its shares (and common stock equivalents) with total gross proceeds of approximately $900,000 (the “Offering”). The net proceeds to the Company from this offering, before deducting the placement agent’s fees and expenses, were approximately $785,000.

 

In connection with the Offering, the Company issued 1,428,571 shares at the price of US$0.63 per share, with each share coupled with a Class A Warrant (1,428,571 Class A Warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one share and a Class B Warrant (1,428,571 Class B Warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one share. The shares, the Class A Warrants and the Class B Warrants were sold as units, but were issued separately. The Class A Warrants have an exercise price of US $0.63 per share and the Class B Warrants have an exercise price of $0.78 per share. The Class A Warrants are exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the six-month anniversary of the date of issuance. The Class B Warrants are exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the five-year anniversary of the date of issuance.

 

Dawson James Securities, Inc. acted as the Company’s exclusive placement agent, on a best efforts basis, in connection with the Offering. Pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Placement Agency Agreement by and between the Company and the Placement Agent, dated as of February 3, 2016 (the “PAA”), the Company paid the Placement Agent a cash placement fee equal to 8% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, or $71,999, plus a non-accountable expense allowance equal to $25,000. The Placement Agent also received five-year warrants (the “Compensation Warrants”) to purchase up to a number of shares equal to 8% of the aggregate number of shares sold in the Offering, or 114,286 shares. The Compensation Warrants have substantially the same terms as the Class B Warrants in the Offering, except that such Compensation Warrants have an exercise price of US$0.78 (125% of the public offering price per share) and terminate on the five year anniversary of the effective date of this offering.

 

  F- 40  

 

 

Effective as of June 28, 2016, the Company implemented a reverse stock split of its ordinary shares. The new CUSIP number for the Company's common stock following the reverse split is G2113X134. On May 23, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a one-for-eight reverse stock split intended to increase the per share trading price of the Company's outstanding ordinary shares in order to comply with the minimum bid price requirement of $1.00 per share for continued listing on the NASDAQ Stock Market. In order to maintain the Company's listing on the NASDAQ Capital Market, the Company's common stock must have a closing bid price of $1.00 or more for a minimum of ten consecutive trading days by September 19, 2016. The reverse stock split reduced the number of outstanding ordinary shares of the Company from approximately 21.9 million shares to approximately 2.7 million shares and the par value per share will increase from $0.001 to $0.008. In lieu of issuing fractional shares, the Company rounded fractions of shares down to the nearest whole share. All outstanding stock options, warrants and other rights to purchase the Company's ordinary shares was adjusted proportionately as a result of the reverse stock split. The number of total authorized ordinary shares of the Company was not changed as a result of the reverse split. The December 31, 2015 number of shares was retroactively restated to reflect the 8:1 reverse split made in June 28, 2016.

 

On April 3, 2017, the Company, pursuant to a securities purchase agreement, between the Company and an institutional accredited investor, completed a registered offering of US$631,579 principal amount of its 5% original issue discount convertible promissory note due January 3, 2018 for the purchase price of US$ 600,000. At its option, the holder of the Note may convert the Note into the right to acquire shares of the Company at any time prior to the Maturity Date at the conversion price which is equal to 85% of the volume weighed average price (VWAP) per share over the five (5) trading day period prior to each conversion of the Note, subject to $1.00 per share floor price and other conversion limitations to ensure compliance with the Nasdaq Stock Exchange and other applicable laws, rules and regulations. Right after the issuance of the convertible promissory note, from April 4, 2017 through May 23, 2017, the investors converted this note into 369,626 common shares at the conversion price ranging from US$1.1828 – US$1.9355 per share.

 

On July 18, 2017, the Company completed a private place for proceeds of US$861,595 by issuing 633,526 shares at US$ 1.36 per share.

 

From August to December 2017, the Company issued aggregate of 27,394 shares to its Chief Financial Officer as stock compensation expense. The fair value of 27,394 shares was RMB 294,000.

 

On April 19, 2018, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain individual investors relating to a registered direct offering, issuance and sale of an aggregate of 770,299 of its shares, at a purchase price of US$1.56 per share. The net proceeds to the Company from the Offering were RMB 7,952,000 (US$1.2 million). The Offering closed on April 23, 2018. Proceeds from the Offering is used for working capital and general corporate purposes. There were no discounts or brokerage fees associated with this Offering.

 

On November 29, 2018, the Company announced and on December 4, 2018, the Company closed a public offering of its common shares (and common stock warrants) with net proceeds of RMB 7,332,000 (US$ 1.07 million). The gross proceeds was RMB 8,732,000 (US$ 1.27 million) and related commission and legal expense was RMB 1,400,000 (US$ 203,600). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund inventory, distribution expenses, vendor obligations outside of the PRC, as well as for general corporate and working capital purposes.

 

In connection with the Offering, the Company issued 1,000,000 common shares at the price of $1.27 per share, with each common share coupled with a warrant (500,000 warrants in the aggregate) to purchase one common share. The common shares and the warrants were sold as units, but are immediately separable and will be issued separately. The warrants have an exercise price of $1.27 per share. The warrants will be exercisable on or after the date of issuance and will terminate on the five-year anniversary of the date of issuance.

 

In connection with the Offering, the Company executed a Placement Agency Agreement, to pay the Placement Agent a cash placement fee equal to 8% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, plus road show, diligence, legal and other expenses of the Placement Agent of $45,000. The Placement Agent also receive five-year warrants to purchase up to 50,000 common shares, which such Compensation Warrants will have substantially the same terms as the warrants sold in the Offering, except that such Compensation Warrants will have an exercise price of $1.5875 per share or 125% of the public offering price and will terminate on the five year anniversary of the effective date of this offering.

 

  F- 41  

 

 

The total fair value of the warrants granted to investors and placement agent is RMB4,955,000. The fair values of warrants granted were determined using a variation of the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model that takes into account factors specific to the share incentive plans, such as the vesting period. The following principal assumptions were used in the valuation:

 

Grant date   December 4, 2018  
Share price at date of grant   US$ 1.18  
Exercise price at date of grant (investors and placement agent, respectively)   US$ 1.27 & US$ 1.5875  
Volatility     168 %
Warrant life     5 years  
Dividend yield     0 %
Risk-free interest rate     2.63 %
Fair value at grant date   US$ 1.45  

 

Following is a summary of the warrant activity for the year ended December 31, 2018:

 

   

Number of

Warrants

   

Average

Exercise

Price

   

Weighted

Average

Remaining

Contractual

Term in

Years

 
Granted     500,000      $ 1.30       5  
Exercised     -       -       -  
Forfeited     -       -       -  
Expired     -       -       -  
Outstanding at December 31, 2018     500,000     $ 1.30       4.93  
Exercisable at December 31, 2018     500,000     $ 1.30       4.93  

 

From January to December 31, 2018, the Company issued aggregate of 56,919 shares to its Chief Financial Officer as stock compensation expense. The fair value of 56,919 shares was RMB619,000.

 

24. RESERVES

 

  (a) Statutory reserve

 

In accordance with the relevant laws and regulations of the PRC, the Company’s PRC subsidiaries are required to transfer 10% of its profit after taxation prepared in accordance with the accounting regulation of the PRC to the statutory reserve until the reserve balance reaches 50% of the respective registered capital. Such reserve may be used to offset accumulated losses or increase the registered capital of these subsidiaries, subject to the approval from the Board of Directors, and are not available for dividend distribution to the shareholders.

 

  (b) Currency translation reserve

 

The reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations.

 

  F- 42  

 

 

  (c) Merger reserve

 

The merger reserve of the Company represents the difference between the nominal value of the shares of the subsidiaries acquired in the Hengda Reorganization (Note 1) over the nominal value of the shares of the Company issued in exchange thereof.

 

  (d) Share-based payment reserve

 

After the successful consummation of the reverse recapitalization, Mr. Wong Kung Tok, the former sole shareholder of Success Winner, allotted a total of 1,521,528 China Ceramics’ ordinary shares to two financial advisors for their financial advisory services related to the recapitalization activities. The shared based payment reserve represents the fair value of these allotted shares measured based on the average market price over the service periods.

 

The share-based payment reserve also represents the equity-settled share options granted to employees (Note 26). The reserve is made up of the cumulative value of services received from employees recorded over the vesting period commencing from the grant date of equity-settled share options, and is reduced by the expiry or exercise of the share options.

 

The share-based payment reserve also represents the shares issued to its senior officers as stock compensation expense.

 

  (e) Reverse recapitalization reserve

 

The reverse recapitalization reserve arises as a result of the method of accounting for the Success Winner Acquisition. In accordance with IFRS, the acquisition has been accounted for as a reverse recapitalization.

 

  (f) Capital reverse

 

On July 31, 2014, Sound Treasure Limited, the Company’s largest shareholder and an affiliate of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, entered into a three party agreement (the “Novation”) with the financial institution that originated the foreign currency transaction agreements and the Company. Under the Novation, Sound Treasure Limited assumed these agreements and all assets (mainly deposits placed with the financial institution) and all existing and future liabilities arising under these agreements, and the Company was released from the liabilities arising under the foreign currency transaction agreements. As a result, after July 31, 2014, the Company is no longer required to fund any losses related to these agreements, and the Company will neither suffer any future liabilities arising under those agreements nor enjoy any benefit arising under those agreements.

 

At the time that each of the foreign currency transaction agreements was established with the financial institution, the Company was required to deposit monies with the financial institution. RMB6.7 million of a total of RMB15.6 million in deposits were funded on behalf of the Company by Wong Kung Tok (who is the brother-in-law of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer) at the request of the Chief Executive Officer, and were included in a total of RMB40.2 million in loans owed by the Company to Wong Kung Tok as of July 9, 2014. In connection with the Novation discussed above, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Sound Treasure Limited and Wong Kung Tok entered into an agreement with the Company (the “Offset Agreement”) pursuant to which loans totaling RMB 20.7 million owed by the Company to Wong Kung Tok as of the date of the Offset Agreement were transferred to Sound Treasure Limited and then were forgiven by Sound Treasure Limited; and in return the Company agreed to forego any claim to RMB15.6 million in deposits under the foreign currency transaction agreements which were transferred to Sound Treasure Limited pursuant to the Novation. As a result of these transactions, Sound Treasure Limited released the Company from liabilities aggregating RMB76.8 million and the Company transferred ownership of RMB15.6 million in deposits held at the financial institution from the Company to Sound Treasure Limited. Except as disclosed above, neither the Company’s Chief Executive Officer nor any affiliate of the Chief Executive Officer received any remuneration for agreeing to assume the foreign currency transaction agreements. The material terms of the Novation and the Sound Treasure Agreement were reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee of the Company. As a result of the Novation and the Offset Agreement, approximately RMB76.8 million in liabilities on the Company’s books were extinguished in 2014 and the Capital Reserve account was increased by approximately RMB61.3 million.

 

  F- 43  

 

 

25. DIVIDENDS

 

The Company paid a cash dividend of US$0.10 (equivalent to RMB0.61) per share each on July 13, 2013 and January 14, 2014, respectively, to its shareholders which totaled in aggregate US$4.1 million (equivalent to RMB24.9 million gross, RMB23.66 million net of 5% PRC withholding tax (Note 9)).

 

The Company paid a cash dividend of US$0.0125 (equivalent to RMB0.08) per share each on July 14, 2014 and January 14, 2015, respectively, to its shareholders which totaled in aggregate US$0.5 million (equivalent to RMB 3.2 million gross, RMB3.01 million net of 5% PRC withholding tax (Note 9)).

 

26. SHARE-BASED EMPLOYEE REMUNERATION

 

(a) Employee option plan

 

At the annual meeting on December 27, 2010, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2010 Incentive Compensation Plan (“the 2010 Plan”), which was designed to retain directors and senior management. In accordance with the Plan, the Company granted an aggregate of 1,130,000 stock options to the Company’s then directors (Huang Jia Dong, Su Wei Feng, Su Pei Zhi, Paul K. Kelly, Cheng Yan Davis, Ding Wei Dong and William L. Stulginsky) and executives (Hen Man Edmund), upon the approval by the Board of Directors on January 27, 2011, the grant date. The exercise price of the share options granted was US$7.65 per share and the share options were valid for a period of 5 years from January 27, 2011 to January 27, 2016. Such options were fully exercisable as of December 31, 2015. Such options were expired unexcised on January 27, 2016.

 

Share options and weighted average exercise prices are as follows for the reporting periods presented:

 

    Number of shares     Weighted average
exercise price
US$
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2013     1,130,000       7.65  
Granted     -       -  
Forfeited     (20,000 )     7.65  
Exercised     -       -  
Outstanding at December 31, 2013     1,110,000       7.65  
Exercisable at December 31, 2013     832,500       7.65  
Exercisable at December 31, 2014     1,110,000       7.65  
Exercisable at December 31, 2015     1,110,000       7.65  
Expired     (1,110,000 )     7.65  
Exercisable at December 31, 2016     -       -  

 

The total fair value of the share options granted under the 2010 Plan is RMB25,643,000. The fair values of options granted were determined using a variation of the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model that takes into account factors specific to the share incentive plans, such as the vesting period. The following principal assumptions were used in the valuation:

 

Grant date     January 27, 2011  
Vesting period ends     January 27, 2014  
Share price at date of grant   US$ 7.65  
Exercise price at date of grant   US$ 7.65  
Volatility     65 %
Option life     5 years  
Dividend yield     0 %
Risk-free interest rate     1.98 %
Fair value at grant date   US$ 3.52  

 

  F- 44  

 

 

The underlying expected volatility was determined by reference to historical data of the Company’s shares over a period of time, adjusted for any expected changes to future volatility based on publicly available information. Expected dividends are based on historical dividends. Changes in the subjective input assumptions could materially affect the fair value estimate.

 

(b) Employee share scheme

 

The Board of Directors duly adopted and approved the 2017 Equity Compensation Plan (“the 2017 Plan”) on May 21, 2017. The purpose of the 2017 Plan was to attract and retain outstanding individuals as Employees, Directors and Consultants of the Company and its Subsidiaries, to recognize the contributions made to the Company and its Subsidiaries by Employees, Directors and Consultants, and to provide such Employees, Directors and Consultants with additional incentive to expand and improve the profits and achieve the objectives of the Company and its Subsidiaries, by providing such Employees, Directors and Consultants with the opportunity to acquire or increase their proprietary interest in the Company through receipt of Awards.

 

The Board, in its sole discretion, shall determine the Employees, Consultants and Directors to whom, and the time or times at which Awards will be granted, the form and amount of each Award, the expiration date of each Award, the time or times within which the Awards may be exercised, the cancellation of the Awards and the other limitations, restrictions, terms and conditions applicable to the grant of the Awards. To the extent permitted by applicable law, regulation, and rules of a stock exchange on which the Ordinary Shares are listed or traded, the Board may delegate its authority to grant Awards to Employees or Consultants and to determine the terms and conditions thereof to its standing committee, e.g., Compensation Committee, as it may determine in its discretion, on such terms and conditions as it may impose.

 

The total number of shares that may be issued under the 2017 Plan was 280,000. Such shares may be either be authorized but unissued shares or treasury shares. In the event of any reorganization, recapitalization, share split, distribution, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, subdivision, consolidation or exchange of shares, any change in the capital structure of the Company or any similar corporate transaction, the Board shall make such adjustments as it deems appropriate, in its sole discretion, to preserve the benefits or intended benefits of the 2017 Plan and Awards granted under the 2017 Plan.

 

The number of shares issued to Employees, Directors and Consultants is the offer amount divided by the Fair Market Value, meaning (i) if the principal trading market for the Ordinary Shares is the NASDAQ Capital Market or another national securities exchange, the “closing transaction” price at which shares of Ordinary Shares are traded on such securities exchange on the relevant date or (if there were no trades on that date) the latest preceding date upon which a sale was reported, (ii) if the Ordinary Shares is not principally traded on a national securities exchange, but is quoted on the NASD OTC Bulletin Board (“OTCBB”) or the Pink Sheets, the last reported “closing transaction” price of Ordinary Shares on the relevant date, as reported by the OTCBB or Pink Sheets, or, if not so reported, as reported in a customary financial reporting service, as the Committee determines, or (iii) if the Ordinary Shares is not publicly traded or, if publicly traded, is not subject to reported closing transaction prices as set forth above, the Fair Market Value per share shall be as determined by the Board.

 

From August to December 2017, the Company issued aggregate of 27,394 shares to its Chief Financial Officer as stock compensation expense. The fair value of 27,394 shares was RMB 294,000.

 

From January to December 31, 2018, the Company issued aggregate of 56,919 shares to its Chief Financial Officer as stock compensation expense. The fair value of 56,919 shares was RMB 619,000.

 

  F- 45  

 

 

For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, employee remuneration expense (all of which related to equity-settled share-based payment transactions) of RMB 619,000, RMB 294,000 and RMB nil, respectively, has been included in profit or loss and credited to the share-based payment reserve.

 

27. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

 

On January 8, 2010, the Company consummated the acquisition of all voting equity interests of Hengdali, a company that manufactures and sells ceramics tiles used for exterior siding and for interior flooring, for a total cash consideration of RMB185,517,000. The acquisition is intended to increase the Company’s production capacity and reduce costs through economies of scale.

 

Details of the purchase consideration, the net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:

 

    Fair value  
    RMB’000  
Cash and cash equivalents     3,822  
Property, plant and equipment     206,532  
Land use rights     32,439  
Inventories     11,473  
Receivables     400  
Payables     (11,728 )
Borrowings     (60,000 )
Deferred tax liability     (1,156 )
Total identified assets     181,782  
Goodwill     3,735  
Purchase consideration, satisfied in cash     185,517  

 

The goodwill is attributable to Hengdali’s strong production capacity, foreseeable profitability and synergies expected to arise from the economies of scale after the acquisition. None of the goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

 

28. SIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

(a) Apart from those discussed elsewhere in these financial statements, the following are significant related party transactions entered into between the Company and its related parties at agreed rates:

 

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Service fees paid to Stuart Management Co.     40       81       81  

 

    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Amounts owed to related parties     36,203       36,017  
Service fees accrued to Stuart Management Co.     -       -  
      36,203       36,017  

 

Pursuant to an administrative services agreement dated as of December 1, 2009 between the Company and Stuart Management Co., an affiliate of Paul K. Kelly, an ex-director who resigned on Nov 27, 2013, the Company paid US$ 6,000 (equivalent to RMB 40,000) and US$ 12,000 (equivalent to RMB 81,000) during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 plus out-of-pocket expenses to Stuart Management Co. for administrative services. The initial one-year term began on December 1, 2009, and the agreement automatically renews for successive one-year terms unless either party notifies the other of its intent not to renew. During the term of the agreement, Stuart Management Co. provided the Company with general administrative services, including acting as the Company’s administrative agent in the United States and the British Virgin Islands, and allow the Company to utilize certain of its office space for meetings. The agreement was renewed to reduce the amount to US$ 4,900 (equivalent to RMB 30,000) a month in December 2013. The amount was further reduced to US$ 1,000 (equivalent to RMB 6,000) a month commencing October 2014. The Company terminated service with Stuart Management starting from July 1, 2018.

 

  F- 46  

 

 

Mr. Huang Jia Dong, the founder and Chairman of Hengda and the Chief Executive Officer and one of the directors of the Company and Mr. Wong Kung Tok, formerly one of the Company’s significant shareholders, provide working capital loans to the Company from time to time during the normal course of its business. These loans amounted to RMB 35,057,000 and RMB 34,928,000 as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. These loans are interest free, unsecured and repayable on demand. Mr. Huang and Mr. Wong are brothers-in-law. Mr. Huang and Mr. Wong are brothers-in-law.

 

As of December 31, 2018, the Company had a loan of US$ 167,000 (equivalent to RMB1,146,000) (2017: US$ 167,000 (equivalent to RMB 1,089,000)) payable to Sound Treasure Limited, an affiliate of Mr. Huang Jia Dong and a shareholder of the Company. This loan is interest free, unsecured and repayable on demand.

 

29. COMMITMENTS

 

(a) Operating lease commitments

 

The Company leases production factories, warehouses and employees’ hostel from unrelated parties under non-cancellable operating lease arrangements. The leases have varying terms and the total future minimum lease payments of the Company under non-cancellable operating leases are payable as follows:

  

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Within one year     13,902       13,902       13,902  
After one year and within five years     5,792       19,694       33,596  
      19,694       33,596       47,498  

 

The leases typically run for an initial period of three to five years, with an option to renew the lease when all terms are renegotiated. Lease payments are usually increased every five years to reflect market rentals. None of the leases includes contingent rentals.

 

(b) Capital commitments

 

The Company’s capital expenditures consist of expenditures on property, plant and equipment and capital contribution. Capital expenditures contracted for at the balance sheet date but not recognized in the financial statements are as follows:

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Contracted for capital commitment in respect of capital contribution to its wholly foreign owned subsidiary in the PRC:                        
– Hengda     -       -       -  
Contracted but not provided for in the financial statements – acquisition of property, plant and equipment     -       -       -  

 

  F- 47  

 

 

(c) Other commitments

 

The Company had the following other commitments:

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Advertising expenditure contracted but not provided for in the financial statements     -       1,670       3,830  

 

30. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

 

The Company’s overall financial risk management program seeks to minimize potential adverse effects of financial performance of the Company. Management has in place processes and procedures to monitor the Company’s risk exposures while balancing the costs associated with such monitoring and management against the costs of risk occurrence. The Company’s risk management policies are reviewed periodically for changes in market conditions and the Company’s operations.

 

The Company is exposed to financial risks arising from its operations and the use of financial instruments. The key financial risks included credit risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, foreign currency risk and market price risk.

 

Except as disclosed in (d), the Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes or to hedge against fluctuations, if any, in interest rates and foreign exchange rates.

 

  (a) Credit risk

 

Credit risk refers to the risk that a counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Company. The Company’s exposure to credit risk arises primarily from bank balances and trade receivables. For trade receivables, the Company adopts the policy of dealing only with customers of appropriate credit history to mitigate credit risk. For other financial assets, the Company adopts the policy of dealing only with high credit quality counterparties.

 

As the Company does not hold any collateral, the maximum exposure to credit risk for each class of financial assets is the carrying amount of that class of financial assets presented on the consolidated statements of financial position.

 

Cash and bank balances

 

The Company’s bank deposits are placed with reputable banks in the PRC, Hong Kong and the United States, which management believes are of high credit quality. The Company performs periodic evaluations of the relative credit standing of these financial institutions.

 

Trade receivables

 

The Company’s objective is to seek continual growth while minimizing losses incurred due to increased credit risk exposure.

 

The Company’s exposure to credit risks is influenced mainly by the individual characteristics of each customer. The Company typically gives the existing customers credit terms of approximately 120 days to 150 days. In deciding whether credit shall be extended, the Company will take into consideration factors such as the relationship with the customer, its payment history and credit worthiness. In relation to new customers, the sales and marketing department will prepare credit proposals for approval by the Chief Executive Officer.

 

The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers’ financial condition and requires no collateral from its customers. The provision for impairment loss for doubtful debts is based upon a review of the expected collectability of all trade and other receivables.

 

  F- 48  

 

 

The Company’s concentration of credit risk by geographical location is wholly in the PRC as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. Further details of the Company’s concentration of credit risk are set out in Note 17.

 

  (b) Liquidity risk

 

The Company’s policy is to regularly monitor current and expected liquidity requirements and its compliance with loan covenants to ensure that it maintains a sufficient amount of cash and adequate committed lines of funding from major financial institutions to meet its liquidity requirements in the short and longer term.

 

The following table details the Company’s remaining contractual maturities for its financial liabilities. The table has been drawn up based on undiscounted cash flows of financial liabilities based on the earliest date on which the Company can be required to pay. The table includes both interest and principal cash flows. To the extent that interest flows are at a floating rate, the undiscounted amount is calculated based on interest rate at the end of the reporting periods:

 

    As of December 31, 2018  
          More than 1     Total contractual        
          year but less     undiscounted     Carrying  
    Within 1 year     than 3 years     cash flow     amount  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Trade payables     24,329       -       24,329       24,329  
Amounts owed to related parties     36,203               36,203       36,023  
Interest-bearing bank borrowings     -       -       -       -  
Total     60,532       -       60,532       60,532  

 

    As of December 31, 2017  
          More than 1     Total contractual        
          year but less     undiscounted     Carrying  
    Within 1 year     than 3 years     cash flow     amount  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Trade payables     61,084       -       61,084       61,084  
Amounts owed to related parties     36,017               36,017       36,017  
Interest-bearing bank borrowings     -       -       -       -  
Total     97,101       -       97,101       97,101  

  

  (c) Interest rate risk

 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of the Company’s financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.

 

The Company’s exposure to interest rate risk arises primarily from the Company’s interest-bearing bank deposits and borrowings. The interest rates and terms of repayment of the bank borrowings are disclosed in Note 22.

 

The Company is exposed to fair value interest rate risk in relation to its fixed-rate bank borrowings. Bank borrowings subject to fixed interest rates are contractually repriced at intervals of 12 months. The Company currently does not have an interest rate hedging policy. However, the management monitors interest rate exposure and will consider other necessary actions when significant interest rate exposure is anticipated.

 

The Company is also exposed to cash flow interest rate risk related to bank balances and cash held at financial institutions carried at the prevailing market rates and variable-rate bank borrowings.

 

At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the company has paid off all its loan. Thus was no variable-rate risk.

 

  (d) Foreign currency risk

 

  F- 49  

 

 

Currency risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange rates. Currency risk arises when transactions are denominated in foreign currencies.

 

The Company is mainly exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from future commercial transactions, recognized assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the Company entities to which they relate. The Company’s operations are primarily conducted in the PRC. All the sales and purchases transactions are denominated in RMB. As such, the operations are not exposed to exchange rate fluctuation.

 

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, nearly all of the Company’s monetary assets and monetary liabilities were denominated in RMB except that as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, certain bank balances (Note 19), bank borrowings (Note 22) and other payables (Note 21) were denominated in US dollars.

 

Sensitivity analysis

 

The Company’s foreign currency risk is mainly concentrated on the fluctuation of US$ and HK$. The following table details the Company’s sensitivity to a 4% increase and decrease in RMB against the relevant foreign currencies. The sensitivity analysis includes only outstanding foreign currency denominated monetary items and adjusts their translation at the years end for a 4% change. On this basis, if RMB strengthens against foreign currencies by 4%, the Company’s loss before taxation for the year would decrease by the following amount, and vice versa.

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017     2016  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Loss before taxation     353       86       8  

 

The sensitivity analysis has been determined assuming that the change in foreign exchange rates had occurred at the end of the reporting period and had been applied to re-measure those financial instruments held by the Company which expose the Company to foreign currency risk at the end of the reporting period. The stated changes represent management’s assessment of reasonably possible changes in foreign exchange rates over the period until the end of next annual reporting period. The analysis is performed on the same basis for 2018, 2017 and 2016.

 

In management’s opinion, the sensitivity analysis is unrepresentative of the inherent foreign exchange risk as the year end exposure at the end of the reporting period does not reflect the exposure during the year.

 

  (e) Fair value measurements

 

  (i) Financial instruments carried at fair value

 

Fair value hierarchy

 

The following table presents the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments measured at the end of the reporting period on a recurring basis, categorized into the three-level fair value hierarchy as defined in IFRS 13 Fair value measurement. The level into which a fair value measurement is classified is determined with reference to the observability and significance of the inputs used in the valuation technique as follows:

 

  · Level 1: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

  · Level 2: inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (that is, as prices) or indirectly (that is, derived from prices)

 

  · Level 3: inputs for the assets or liability that are not based on observable market data (that is, unobservable inputs). The Company’s directors are responsible to determine the appropriate valuation techniques and inputs for fair value measurements.

 

  F- 50  

 

 

There were no transfers between instrument levels during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.

 

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 there were no other financial instruments measured on a recurring basis.

 

  (ii) Financial assets and liabilities measured at other than fair value

 

The carrying amounts of the Company’s other financial instruments carried at cost or amortized cost approximate their fair values as of December 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

31. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

 

The Company’s objectives when managing capital are:

 

(i)            To safeguard the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and to be able to service its debts when they are due;

 

(ii)           To maintain an optimal capital structure so as to maximize shareholder value; and

 

(iii)          To maintain a strong credit rating and healthy capital ratios in order to support the Company’s stability and growth.

 

The Company actively and regularly reviews and manages its capital structure to ensure optimal shareholder returns, taking into consideration the future capital requirements of the Company and capital efficiency, prevailing and projected profitability, projected operating cash flows, projected capital expenditures and projected strategic investment opportunities. The Company manages its common shares and stock options as capital.

 

The Company is not subject to externally imposed capital requirements, except for, as disclosed in Note 23(a), the Company’s PRC subsidiaries are required by the Foreign Enterprise Law of the PRC to contribute to and maintain a non-distributable statutory reserve fund whose utilization is subject to approval by the Board of Directors. This externally imposed capital requirement has been complied with by the PRC subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

 

In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Company may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, return capital to shareholders, increase share capital, obtain new borrowings or sell assets to reduce debt.

 

There were no changes in the Company’s overall approach to capital management during the report periods.

 

The capital structure of the Company consists of debts (which include borrowings, less cash and cash equivalents) and equity attributable to shareholders of the Company (comprising issued capital and reserves). The Company monitors capital on the basis of the debt to capital ratio, which is calculated as net debts divided by equity attributable to shareholders of the Company.

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Interest-bearing bank borrowings     -       -  
Amounts owed to related parties     36,203       36,017  
Total debts     36,203       36,017  
Less: Cash and cash equivalents (excluding restricted bank balances)     (9,016 )     (2,328 )
Net debts     27,187       33,689  
Equity attributable to shareholders of the Company     275,712       694,530  
Gearing ratio     9.9 %     4.9 %

 

  F- 51  

 

 

32. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

The Company has evaluated all events that have occurred subsequent to December 31, 2018 through the date that the consolidated financial statements were issued. Management has concluded that no subsequent events required disclosure in these financial statements.

 

  F- 52  

 

 

Exhibit 12.1

 

Certification

Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Exchange Act

 

I, Huang Jia Dong, certify that:

 

  1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of China Ceramics Co., Ltd.;

 

  2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4. The company's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

 

  a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the company's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  d. Disclosed in this report any change in the company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company's internal control over financial reporting; and

 

  5. The company's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company's auditors and the audit committee of the company's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company's internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date: April 30, 2019  
   
  By: /s/ Huang Jia Dong
    Name: Huang Jia Dong
    Title: Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

 

     

 

 

Exhibit 12.2

Certification

Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Exchange Act

 

I, Hen Man Edmund, certify that:

 

  1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of China Ceramics Co., Ltd.;

 

  2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4. The company's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

 

  a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the company's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  d. Disclosed in this report any change in the company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company's internal control over financial reporting; and

 

  5. The company's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company's auditors and the audit committee of the company's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company's internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date: April 30, 2019
     
  By: /s/ Hen Man Edmund
    Name: Hen Man Edmund
    Title: Chief Financial Officer
    (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

     

 

 

  Exhibit 13.1

 

Certification

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350

 

Pursuant to U.S.C. Section 1350 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code), each of the undersigned officers of China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (the "Company"), does hereby certify, to such officer's knowledge, that the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2018 of the Company fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 20-F fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

  CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD.
   
April 30 , 2019 By: /s/ Huang Jia Dong
    Name: Huang Jia Dong
   

Title: Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

     
April 30 , 2019 By: /s/ Hen Man Edmund
    Name: Hen Man Edmund
    Title: Chief Financial Officer
    (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

     

 

 

Exhibit 15.1

 

 

 

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

To the Board of Directors

China Ceramics Co., Ltd.

 

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement of China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (the “Company”) on Form F-3 filed with the SEC on October 9, 2015 (333-206516), Form 20-F filed with the SEC on April 20, 2016 (File No. 001-34944), Form 6-K filed with the SEC on March 8, 2016 (001-34944), Form S-8 filed with the SEC on June 27, 2017 (333-219005), Form 20-F filed with the SEC on May 15, 2017 (001-34944), Form F-3 filed with the SEC on April 16, 2018 (333-224302) and Form F-3 filed with the SEC on May 9, 2018 (333-224302), respectively, of our report dated April 30, 2019, with respect to our audits of the consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2018, which appears in this Annual Report on Form 20-F of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2018.

 

 

 

/s/ Centurion ZD CPA & Co.

 

Centurion ZD CPA & Co.

(successor to Centurion ZD CPA Limited of which became successor to AWC (CPA) Limited)

 

Hong Kong, China

April 30, 2019 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.3

 

Contact Information:

China Ceramics Co., Ltd.   Precept Investor Relations LLC
Edmund Hen, Chief Financial Officer   David Rudnick, Account Manager
Email: info@cceramics.com   Email: david.rudnick@preceptir.com
    Phone: +1 917-864-8849

 

 

China Ceramics Announces Second Half and
Full Year Financial Results for Fiscal 2018

 

Jinjiang, Fujian Province, China, April 30, 2019 – China Ceramics Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ Capital Market: CCCL) (“China Ceramics” or the “Company”), a leading Chinese manufacturer of ceramic tiles used for exterior siding and for interior flooring and design in residential and commercial buildings, today announced its financial results for the second half and fiscal year ended December 31, 2018.

 

Operating results were affected by the following significant items :

 

§ Sales in the second half of 2018 sharply decreased due to an unexpected slowdown in China’s real estate sector. In an effort to bolster sales, in July of 2018, we decreased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 10%. This follows a price increase of 5% that we instituted in April of 2018 following three price raises beginning in April of 2017.

§ Provision for inventory impairment was RMB 56.0 million (US$ 8.2 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to a reversal of inventory impairment of RMB 2.7 million (US$ 0.4 million) for the same period of 2017.

§ Asset write-down attributable to the impairment of fixed assets and land use rights was RMB 85.0 million (US$ 12.9 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to RMB 36.7 million (US$ 5.5 million) for the same period of 2017.

§ Provision for bad debt was RMB 210.1 million (US$ 30.6 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to RMB 71.6 million (US$ 10.8 million) for the same period of 2017. Provision for bad debt was RMB 316.4 million (US$ 47.9 million) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to RMB 71.6 million (US$ 10.8 million) for the same period of 2017.

 

Second Half 2018 Summary

 

§ Revenue was RMB 142.6 million (US$ 20.8 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to RMB 485.3 million (US$ 73.2 million) for the same period of 2017.
§ Gross loss was RMB 46.0 million (US$ 6.7 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to a gross profit of RMB 57.8 million (US$ 8.7 million) for the same period of 2017.
§ Net loss was RMB 346.8 million (US$ 50.6 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to a net loss of RMB 82.2 million (US$ 12.4 million) for the same period of 2017.
§ Loss per share on a basic and fully diluted basis were RMB 75.95 (US$ 11.07) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to loss per share on a basic and fully diluted basis of RMB 24.29 (US$ 3.66) for the six months ended December 31, 2017.
§ Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) was RMB 10.2 million (US$ 1.5 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets and land use rights, the inventory impairment provision, and bad debt expense, as compared to RMB 51.6 million (US$ 7.8 million), adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets, slow-moving inventory, and bad debt expense for the same period of 2017.

 

  1  

 

 

Fiscal Year 2018 Summary

 

§ Revenue was RMB 498.2 million (US$ 75.4 million), as compared to RMB 821.8 million (US$ 121.7 million) for fiscal year 2017.
§ Gross loss was RMB 1.2 million (US$ 0.2 million), as compared to a gross profit of RMB 50.4 million (US$ 7.5 million) for fiscal year 2017.
§ Net loss was RMB 418.7 million (US$ 63.3 million), as compared to a net loss of RMB 88.0 million (US$ 13.0 million) for fiscal year 2017.
§ Loss per share on a basic and fully diluted basis were RMB 93.18 (US$ 14.10), as compared to basic and fully diluted earnings per share of RMB 26.36 (US$ 3.90) for fiscal year 2017.
§ Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) was RMB 50.5 million (US$ 7.6 million), adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets and land use rights, the inventory impairment provision, and bad debt expense, as compared to RMB 42.9 million (US$ 6.4 million), adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets, slow-moving inventory, and bad debt expense for fiscal year 2017.

 

“During the second half of 2018, we experienced difficult market conditions as compared to the same period of 2017. Our revenue decreased 71% for the second half of 2018 due to a 72% decrease in our sales volume. However, after adjusting for asset write-offs, our cash flow was modestly positive for the second half of the year despite the market slowdown, and our cash flow was reasonably strong for the full year of 2018,” said Mr. Jiadong Huang, Chief Executive Officer of China Ceramics.

 

“For the fiscal year 2018, we utilized production facilities capable of producing 16.9 million square meters of ceramic tiles per year out of the Company’s effective total annual production capacity of 56.5 million square meters of ceramic tiles. Consistent with our practices in past quarters, we maintained a reduced utilization of existing plant capacity based on the current market environment to keep our operating costs low. We intend to bring additional capacity online as the business environment improves.”

 

“For the remainder 2019, we believe that market conditions will continue to be challenging due to government regulations to stabilize real estate prices and contain real estate development. However, urban renewal projects and an improvement in new home prices last month fueled by China’s smaller tier cities could represent a potential turnaround in business conditions. In the long-term, we believe our building materials sector will continue to benefit from growth in the real estate sector due to continued urbanization and its importance to China’s domestic growth. We plan to capitalize on emerging trends in the sector such as affordable housing initiatives and the Government’s promotion of rental properties that could spur future growth,” concluded Mr. Huang.

 

  2  

 

 

Six Month Results Ended December 31, 2018

 

Revenue for the six months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 142.6 million (US$ 20.8 million), as compared to RMB 485.3 million (US$ 72.7 million) for the same period of 2017. The 70.6% year-over-year decrease in revenue was due to the 72.0% decrease in our sales volume for the six months ended December 31, 2018 compared to the same period of 2017.

 

Gross loss for the six months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 46.0 million (US$ 6.7 million), as compared to gross profit of RMB 57.8 million (US$ 8.7 million) for the same period of 2017. The gross loss margin was 32.3% as compared to an 11.9% gross profit margin for the same period of 2017. The gross loss margin for the six months ending December 31, 2018 was due to (i) a 72.1% period-to-period decrease in sales volume, and (ii) an increase in the provision for inventory impairment, which was RMB 56.0 million (US$ 8.2 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to a reversal of inventory impairment of RMB 2.7 million (US$ 0.4 million) for the same period of 2017.

 

Other income for the six months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 7.5 million ($1.1 million), as compared to RMB 7.3 million ($1.1 million) for the same period of 2017. Other income is primarily comprised of rental income that the Company received by leasing out one of its production lines from its Hengdali facility pursuant to an eight-year lease contract.

 

Selling expenses for the six months ended December 31, 2018 were RMB 5.3 million (US$ 0.8 million), as compared to RMB 6.1 million (US$ 0.9 million) for the same period of 2017. The decrease in selling expenses was mainly due to lower sales during the current period.

 

Administrative expenses for the six months ended December 31, 2018 were RMB 7.5 million (US$ 1.1 million), as compared to RMB 8.2 million (US$ 0.7 million) for the same period of fiscal 2017. The decrease in administrative expenses was primarily due to an RMB 0.5 million decrease in office expenses and an RMB 0.2 million decrease in travel expenses.

 

Bad debt expense for the six months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 210.1 million (US$ 30.6 million), as compared to RMB 71.6 million (US$ 10.8 million) for the same period of 2017, with the increase due to the write-off of bad debt due to a rise in uncollectible debt associated with our customers. We recognized a loss allowance for an expected credit loss on financial assets, primarily on our trade receivables, which are subject to impairment under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). We believe that we have undertaken appropriate measures to resolve the bad debt expense. We will continue to review each of our customers for credit quality as well as assiduously test our accounts receivables balances in each upcoming fiscal period.

 

Loss from asset devaluation resulting from an impairment of non-current assets (fixed assets and land use rights) for the six months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 85.0 million (US$ 12.9 million) as compared to RMB 36.7 million (US$ 5.5 million) for the same period of 2017. The loss from asset devaluation resulted from an impairment of non-current assets due to decelerating growth in China and an expected contraction in the demand for the Company’s products.

 

Other expenses for the six months ended December 31, 2018 were RMB $0.2 million (US$ 0.03 million), as compared to RMB 3.6 million (US$ 0.5 million) for the same period of 2017. The reduction in other expenses is attributable to a decreased loss on the disposal of fixed assets.

 

  3  

 

 

Net loss for the six months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 346.8 million (US$ 50.6 million), as compared to a net loss of RMB 82.2 million (US$ 12.4 million) for the same period of 2017. The increase in net loss was mainly due to lower sales volume, an increase in the inventory impairment provision, an increase in bad debt expense, and an increase in the loss from asset devaluation for the six months ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the same period of 2017.

 

Loss per basic share and fully diluted share for the six months ended December 31, 2018 were RMB 75.95 (US$ 11.07), as compared to loss per basic and fully diluted share of RMB 24.29 (US$ 3.66) for the same period of 2017.

 

Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) was RMB 10.2 million (US$ 1.5 million) for the six months ended December 31, 2018, adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets and land use rights, the inventory impairment provision, and bad debt expense, as compared to RMB 51.6 million (US$ 7.8 million), adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets, slow-moving inventory and bad debt expense for the same period of 2017.

 

Full Year 2018 Financial Results

 

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 498.2 million (US$ 75.4 million), as compared to RMB 821.8 million (US$ 121.7 million) for the year ended December 31, 2017. Gross loss was RMB 1.2 million (US$ 0.2 million), as compared to gross profit of RMB 50.4 million (US$ 7.5 million) for the same period of 2017. The gross loss margin was 0.2%, as compared to a 6.1% gross profit margin for the same period of 2017. Other income was RMB 14.6 million (US$ 2.2 million), as compared to RMB 14.3 million (US$ 2.1 million) for the same period of 2017. Selling expenses were RMB 11.0 million (US$ 1.7 million), as compared to RMB 12.0 million (US$ 1.8 million) for the same period of 2017. Administrative expenses were RMB 18.0 million (US$ 2.7 million), as compared to RMB 17.2 million (US$ 2.6 million) for the same period of 2017. Bad debt expense was RMB 316.4 million (US$ 47.9 million), as compared to RMB 71.6 million ($10.6 million) for the same period of 2017. Loss from asset devaluation resulting from an impairment of non-current assets was RMB 85.0 million (US$ 12.9 million), as compared to RMB 36.7 million (US$ 5.4 million) for the same period of 2017. Other expenses were RMB 1.5 million (US$ 0.2 million), as compared to RMB 5.2 million (US$ 0.8 million) in the same period of 2017. Net loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 was RMB 418.7 million (US$ 63.4 million), as compared to a net loss of RMB 88.0 million (US$ 13.0 million) for the same period of 2017. Loss per share on a basic and fully diluted basis were RMB 93.18 (US$ 14.10) for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to basic and fully diluted earnings per share of RMB 26.36 (US$ 3.90), for the same period of 2017. Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) was RMB 50.5 million (US$ 7.6 million), adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets and land use rights, the inventory impairment provision, and bad debt expense, as compared to RMB 42.9 million (US$ 6.4 million), adjusted for the write-off of fixed assets, slow-moving inventory, and bad debt expense, for the same period of 2017.

 

  4  

 

 

Statements of Selected Financial Position Items for Fiscal Year End 2018

 

§ Cash and bank balances were RMB 9.0 million (US$ 1.3 million) as of December 31, 2018, compared with RMB 2.3 million (US$ 0.4 million) as of December 31, 2017.

 

§ Inventory turnover was 117 days as of December 31, 2018, as compared to 95 days as of December 31, 2017. We recorded an inventory impairment provision of RMB 56.0 million (US$ 8.2 million) in 2018 and a reversal of an inventory impairment provision of RMB 2.7 million (US$ 0.4 million) in 2017. Subsequent to the inventory impairment for fiscal year 2018, we believe that the value of our current inventories is realizable.

 

§ Trade receivables turnover, net of value added tax, was 233 days as of December 31, 2018, as compared with 206 days as of December 31, 2017. This high trade receivables turnover days was primarily due to a continued difficult economic environment which has prompted us to offer extended credit terms to certain customers resulting in a higher trade receivables turnover figure than normal.

 

§ Trade payables turnover, net of value added tax, was 26 days as of December 31, 2018 as compared with 43 days as of December 31, 2017. The average turnover days was within the normal credit period of one to four months granted by our suppliers.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Cash flow used in operating activities was RMB 2.4 million (US$ 0.3 million) for the second six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to cash used in operating activities of RMB 3.6 million (US$ 0.5 million) in the same period of 2017. The decrease in cash outflow was mainly due to increased cash inflow from trade receivables.

 

Cash flow used in investing activities was RMB 1.7 million (US$ 0.3 million) for the second six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to cash flow used in investing activities of RMB 0.06 million (US$ 0.01 million) in the same period of 2017. The increase in cash outflow was due to the increase in restricted cash of RMB 1.7 million.

 

Cash flow generated from financing activities was RMB 7.5 million (US$ 1.1 million) for the second six months ended December 31, 2018, as compared to cash flow generated from financing activities of RMB 5.6 million (US$ 0.8 million) in the same period of 2017. Both events were the result of the issuance of common shares.

 

Plant Capacity and Capital Expenditures Update

 

We utilized plant capacity capable of producing 4.7 million square meters of ceramic tiles for the six months ended December 31, 2018 and 16.9 million square meters of ceramic tiles for fiscal 2018 out of a total annual production capacity of 56.5 million square meters. Our annual production capacity has been reduced from 66 million square meters of ceramic tiles as of December 31, 2017 to 56.5 million square meters of ceramic tiles due to our having retired two old furnaces at the Hengda facility in July of 2018.

 

Our Hengda facility has an annual production capacity of 27.7 million square meters of ceramic tiles as a result of two old furnaces having been put out of use at the facility. The Company utilized production capacity at our Hengda facility capable of producing 2.3 million square meters of ceramic tiles for the six months ended December 31, 2018 and 9.8 million square meters of ceramic tiles for fiscal 2018.

 

Our Hengdali facility has an annual production capacity of 28.8 million square meters (which excludes our leasing out 10 million square meters of production capacity to a third party) and we utilized production capacity at our Hengdali facility capable of producing 2.4 million square meters of ceramic tiles for the six months ended December 31, 2018 and 7.1 million square meters of ceramic tiles for fiscal 2018.

 

We will bring our unused production capacity online as customer demand dictates and when there are signs of improvement in China’s real estate and construction sectors.

 

  5  

 

 

Business Outlook

 

Sales in the second half of 2018 sharply decreased due to an unexpected slowdown in China’s real estate sector. In an effort to bolster sales, in July of 2018, we decreased the pricing of our ceramic tile products by an average of 10%. This follows a pricing increase of 5% that we instituted in April of 2018 following three price raises beginning in April of 2017. However, the 10% price decrease in July 2018 did not offset the fall in our sales volume due to deteriorating market conditions that persisted through the second half of 2018, and we do not believe that further price decreases would have had a beneficial effect upon sales volume. To address the current market environment, we plan upon expanding our sales force to procure new customers, increasing our marketing to large property developers in targeted cities, and bolstering our research and development efforts to develop new products in order to expand our market.

 

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2019, and based on the information currently available to us, we expect market conditions to continue to be challenging due to a slowing domestic economy and government regulations intended to stabilize real estate prices and slow real estate development. For example, the central government has imposed lending curbs, higher mortgage rates and down payments, a price cap on new developments and restrictions on the number of homes each family can buy. This has led to some restraint on the part of property developers to develop new residential housing due to continued uncertainty, resulting in a slowing construction sector.

 

We believe that China’s property market is resilient long-term, and that despite specific austerity measures in certain cities, there is substantial potential for property development in many regions. New home prices in China showed a recent monthly uptick reversing four months of decreases which was fueled by China’s smaller third and fourth tier cities, a sector in which the Company is particularly focused. In addition, m ore than 20 cities have relaxed their price-curbing regulations since the beginning of the year, lowering the threshold to qualify for mortgage loans.

 

In our view, real estate continues to be of vital importance for China’s economy as it accounts for approximately 25% of GDP. Further, China’s urbanization trend, where there has been a great movement of population from rural areas into China’s cities, will continue into the foreseeable future which, in our view, points to a sustainable building materials sector over the long-term. Also, Chinese households invest two-thirds of their assets on average in real estate since alternative investments, such as the domestic stock markets, are deemed too risky while real estate offers steady, long-term growth.

 

We typically receive orders from customers one or two months in advance of production on a rolling basis. However, due to the potential for continued difficult market conditions in 2019, there has been a decreased demand for our products, and as of December 31, 2018, we did not have any backlog. The Company believes that the reduction in backlog has to do with a general slowdown in the construction industry in China as customers are continuing to defer orders and/or are waiting to start new projects.

 

Our building materials sector is continuing to work through excessive production capacity while government mandates to convert to cleaner and more expensive fuel sources could result in smaller, less well capitalized competitors exiting the space. We believe that we have a competitive advantage in our sector due to our brand name recognition, extensive product platform, marketing expertise and modernized operating efficiencies.

 

This business outlook reflects the Company's current and preliminary views, which are subject to change and is subject to risks and uncertainties, as well as risks and uncertainties identified in the Company’s public filings.

 

  6  

 

 

Conference Call Information

 

We will host a conference call at 8:00 am ET on Tuesday, April 30, 2019. Listeners may access the call by dialing +1 (877) 275-8968 five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled conference call time. International callers should dial +1 (706) 643-1666. The conference participant pass code is 9428228 . A replay of the conference call will be available for 14 days starting from 11:00 am ET on April 30, 2019. To access the replay, dial +1 (855) 859-2056. International callers should dial +1 (404) 537-3406. The pass code is 9428228 for the replay.

 

About China Ceramics Co., Ltd.

 

China Ceramics Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of ceramic tiles in China. The Company’s ceramic tiles are used for exterior siding, interior flooring, and design in residential and commercial buildings. China Ceramics’ products, sold under the “Hengda” or “HD”, “Hengdali” or “HDL”, the “TOERTO” and “WULIQIAO” brands, and the “Pottery Capital of Tang Dynasty” brands, are available in over 2,000 style, color and size combinations and are distributed through a network of exclusive distributors as well as directly to large property developers. For more information, please visit http://www.cceramics.com .

 

Currency Convenience Translation

 

The Company’s financial information is stated in Renminbi (“RMB”). Translations of amounts from RMB into United States dollars (“US$”) in this earnings release are solely for the convenience of the readers and were calculated at the rate of US$1.00 = RMB 6.8755 for balance sheet accounts at the balance sheet date, US$1.00 = RMB 6.608 for the P&L accounts for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018, and US$1.00 = RMB 6.858 for the P&L accounts for the six months ended December 31, 2018. The exchange rate refers to the historical rate as set forth in the H.10 statistical release published by www.federalreserve.gov on December 28, 2018. Such translations should not be construed as representations that RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted realized or settled into US$ at that rate on December 31, 2018 or any other rate.

 

  7  

 

 

Safe Harbor Statement

 

Certain of the statements made in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning and protections of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements include statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, assumptions, estimates, intentions, and future performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control, and which may cause the actual results, performance, capital, ownership or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, the continued stable macroeconomic environment in the PRC, the PRC real estate and construction sectors continuing to exhibit sound long-term fundamentals, our ability to bring additional capacity online going forward as our business improves, our customers continuing to adjust to our product price increases, our ability to sustain our average selling price increases and to continue to build volume in the quarters ahead, and whether our enhanced marketing efforts will help to produce wider customer acceptance of the new price points. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be forward-looking statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements through our use of words such as “may,” “will,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “should,” “indicate,” “would,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “continue,” “plan,” “point to,” “project,” “could,” “intend,” “target” and other similar words and expressions of the future.

 

All written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary notice, including, without limitation, those risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2017 and otherwise in our SEC reports and filings. Such reports are available upon request from the Company, or from the Securities and Exchange Commission, including through the SEC’s Internet website at http://www.sec.gov. We have no obligation and do not undertake to update, revise or correct any of the forward-looking statements after the date hereof, or after the respective dates on which any such statements otherwise are made.

 

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

 

This press release contains financial measures and guidance which are considered "non-GAAP" financial measures under applicable SEC rules and regulations. As described below, the Company’s management believes that in order to properly understand its short-term and long-term financial trends, including period over period comparisons of the Company's operations, investors may find it useful to exclude the effect of certain charges or gains that contribute to or reduce earnings but that result from transactions or events that management believes may or may not recur with similar materiality or impact to operations in future periods. The Company generally uses such measures to facilitate management's review of the operational performance of the Company. For more detail on these measures and reconciliation of such measure to the most comparable IFRS financial measures, please refer to page 15 of this release.

 

  8  

 

 

FINANCIAL TABLES

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

 

    As of December 31,  
    2018     2017  
      USD'000       RMB'000       RMB'000  
                         
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES                        
NONCURRENT ASSETS                        
   Property and equipment, net     7       46       87,316  
   Investment property, net     -       -       4,994  
   Land use rights, net     -       -       4,364  
   Goodwill     -       -       -  
   Deferred tax assets     -       -       209  
   Long-term prepaid expense     -       -       -  
      Total noncurrent assets     7       46       96,883  
                         
CURRENT ASSETS                        
   Inventories, net     18,522       127,346       191,667  
   Trade receivables, net     32,596       224,114       532,361  
   Other receivables and prepayments     680       4,673       2,152  
   Income tax refundable     4       27       27  
   Restricted Cash     250       1,719       -  
   Cash and bank balances     1,311       9,016       2,328  
      Total current assets     53,363       366,895       728,535  
                         
CURRENT LIABILITIES                        
   Trade payables     3,538       24,329       61,084  
   Accrued liabilities and other payables     3,767       25,894       29,719  
   Amounts owned to related parties     5,266       36,203       36,017  
   Taxes payable     654       4,497       3,862  
       Total current liabilities     13,225       90,923       130,682  
                         
NET CURRENT ASSETS     40,138       275,972       597,853  
                         
NET ASSETS     40,145       276,018       694,736  
                         
EQUITY                        
  Share capital     44       306       206  
  Reserves     40,101       275,712       694,530  
         Total stockholders' equity     40,145       276,018       694,736  

 

  9  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(Unaudited)

 

    Six months ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
      USD'000       RMB'000        RMB'000  
                         
Net sales     20,786       142,559       485,342  
                         
Cost of goods sold     27,495       188,570       427,579  
                         
Gross profit (loss)     (6,709 )     (46,011 )     57,763  
                         
Other income     1,101       7,549       7,284  
Selling and distribution expenses     (778 )     (5,334 )     (6,127 )
Administrative expenses     (1,096 )     (7,516 )     (8,232 )
Finance costs     -       -       4  
Bad debt expense     (30,628 )     (210,058 )     (71,565 )
Loss from asset devaluation     (12,397 )     (85,021 )     (36,683 )
Other expenses     (25 )     (168 )     (3,624 )
                         
Loss before taxation     (50,532 )     (346,559 )     (61,180 )
                         
Income tax (expense) credit     (30 )     (209 )     (21,017 )
                         
Loss attributable to shareholders     (50,562 )     (346,768 )     (82,197 )
                         
Loss per share                        
                         
Basic (RMB)     (11.07 )     (75.95 )     (24.29 )
Diluted (RMB)     (11.07 )     (75.95 )     (24.29 )

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

SALES VOLUME AND AVERAGE SELLING PRICE (UNAUDITED)

 

    Six months ended December 31,  
    2017     2018  
                 
Sales volume (square meters)     17,862,005       4,993,244  
Average Selling Price (in RMB/square meter)     27.17       28.55  

 

  10  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

         

    For the Years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
      USD'000       RMB'000       RMB'000  
                         
Net sales     75,392       498,189       821,792  
                         
Cost of goods sold     75,568       499,355       771,438  
                         
Gross profit (loss)     (176 )     (1,166 )     50,354  
                         
Other income     2,215       14,637       14,253  
Selling and distribution expenses     (1,669 )     (11,026 )     (11,962 )
Administrative expenses     (2,722 )     (17,990 )     (17,249 )
Bad debt expense     (47,887 )     (316,438 )     (71,565 )
Finance costs     -       -       (213 )
Loss from asset devaluation     (12,866 )     (85,021 )     (36,683 )
Other expenses     (221 )     (1,461 )     (5,220 )
                         
Loss before taxation     (63,326 )     (418,465 )     (78,285 )
                         
Income tax expense     (32 )     (209 )     (9,741 )
                         
Loss attributable to shareholders     (63,358 )     (418,674 )     (88,026 )
                         
Loss per share                        
                         
Basic (RMB)     (14.10 )     (93.18 )     (26.36 )
Diluted (RMB)     (14.10 )     (93.18 )     (26.36 )

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

SALES VOLUME AND AVERAGE SELLING PRICE (UNAUDITED)

  

    Years ended December 31 ,  
    2017     2018  
             
Sales volume (square meters)     31,859,801       17,653,219  
Average Selling Price (in RMB/square meter)     25.79       28.22  

 

  11  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

         

    Six months ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
      USD'000       RMB'000       RMB'000  
                         
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                        
Loss before taxation     (50,531 )     (346,559 )     (61,180 )
Adjustments for                        
Amortization of land use rights     8       54       72  
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment     838       5,747       7,173  
Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment     -       -       (27 )
Bad debt provision of trade receivables     30,628       210,058       71,565  
Write down of inventories     8,161       55,973       (2,733 )
Impairment of non-current assets     12,397       85,021       36,683  
Share based compensation     47       321       294  
Finance costs     -       -       (219 )
Interest expense (income)     -       -       206  
Operating cash flows before working capital changes     1,548       10,615       51,834  
Decrease in inventories     61       421       6,308  
Decrease (Increase) in trade receivables     6,593       45,219       (40,775 )
Decrease in other receivables, tax receivable and prepayments     810       5,555       12,845  
Decrease in trade payable     (8,391 )     (57,549 )     (29,891 )
Decrease in taxes payable     (60 )     (412 )     -  
Decrease in accrued liabilities, other payables and amounts owned to related parties     (910 )     (6,244 )     (3,939 )
Cash used in operations     (349 )     (2,395 )     (3,618 )
Interest paid     -       -       -  
Income tax paid     -       -       -  
                         
Net cash used in operating activities     (349 )     (2,395 )     (3,618 )
                         
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                        
Acquisition of fixed assets     -       -       (62 )
Increase in restricted cash     (250 )     (1,719 )     -  
                         
Net cash used in investing activities     (250 )     (1,719 )     (62 )
                         
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                        
Insurance of share capital for equity financing     1,066       7,310       5,581  
Advance from related parties     27       186       -  
                         
Net cash generated from financing activities     1,093       7,496       5,581  
                         
NET INCREASE IN CASH & EQUIVALENTS     494       3,382       1,901  
CASH & EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD     913       6,042       167  
EFFECT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE DIFFERENCES     (96 )     (408 )     260  
                         
CASH & EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD     1,311       9,016       2,328  

 

  12  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

           

    For the years ended December 31,  
    2018     2017  
      USD'000       RMB'000       RMB'000  
                         
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                        
Loss before taxation     (63,327 )     (418,465 )     (78,285 )
Adjustments for                        
Amortization of land use rights     16       108       143  
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment     1,740       11,500       15,371  
(Gain) loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment                     (70 )
Bad debt provision of trade receivables     47,887       316,438       71,565  
Write down of inventories     8,470       55,973       (2,733 )
Impairment of non-current assets     12,866       85,021       36,683  
Share based compensation     94       619       294  
Interest expense (income)     -       -       206  
Operating cash flows before working capital changes     7,746       51,194       43,174  
Decrease in inventories     1,263       8,347       23,808  
Increase in trade receivables     (3,527 )     (23,309 )     (50,384 )
Increase (Decrease) in other receivables, tax receivable and prepayments     (382 )     (2,521 )     12,058  
Decrease in trade payable     (5,562 )     (36,755 )     (23,173 )
Increase in taxes payable     96       635       -  
Decrease in accrued liabilities, other payables and amounts owned to related parties     (579 )     (3,825 )     (7,529 )
Cash used in operations     (945 )     (6,234 )     (2,046 )
Interest paid     -       -       -  
Income tax paid     -       -       -  
                         
Net cash used in operating activities     (945 )     (6,234 )     (2,046 )
                         
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                        
Acquisition of fixed assets     -       -       (5,618 )
Proceed from disposal of property, plant and equipment     -       -       70  
Increase in restricted cash     (260 )     (1,719 )     -  
                         
Net cash used in investing activities     (260 )     (1,719 )     (5,548 )
                         
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                        
Insurance of share capital for equity financing     2,310       15,262       9,537  
Advance from related parties     28       186          
                         
Net cash generated from financing activities     2,338       15,448       9,537  
                         
NET INCREASE IN CASH & EQUIVALENTS     1,133       7,495       1,943  
CASH & EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR     356       2,328       110  
EFFECT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE DIFFERENCES     (178 )     (807 )     275  
                         
CASH & EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR     1,311       9,016       2,328  

 

  13  

 

 

About Non-GAAP Financial Measures

 

In addition to China Ceramics’ condensed consolidation financial results under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), the Company also provides certain non-IFRS financial measures (referred to as the “non-GAAP financial measures”) for the second half and full fiscal years ending December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2018, respectively, from their comparable IFRS measures. Such non-GAAP financial measures are offered to supplement the Company’s audited financial statements, this earnings release and the accompanying tables and include EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA.

 

EBITDA is calculated as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as EBITDA less loss from asset devaluation, inventory write-down and bad debt expense. Both are measures of the Company’s operating performance.

 

The Company uses these non-GAAP financial measures internally in analyzing its financial results and believes they are useful to investors in evaluating the Company’s ongoing operational performance. In addition, the Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with other methods for assessing China Ceramics’ operating results in a manner that is focused on the performance of its ongoing operations. Readers are cautioned not to view non-GAAP financial measures on a stand-alone basis or as a substitute for results under IFRS, or as being comparable to results reported or forecasted by other companies, and should refer to the unaudited reconciliation presented below. The Company has provided a reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure below as adjusted for the periods indicated:

 

  14  

 

 

CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD.

Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP: Net Income to EBITDA (1)

Six months ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017

(all figures in 000’s)

 

    2018     2017  
    RMB     USD     RMB     USD  
 Net loss     (346,768 )     (50,562 )     (82,197 )     (12,385 )
 Interest expense     -       -       4       1  
 Interest income     (36 )     (5 )     (32 )     (5 )
 Income tax expense     209       30       21,017       3,167  
 Depreciation and amortization expense     5,801       846       7,245       1,092  
 EBITDA     (340,794 )     (49,691 )     (53,963 )     (8,130 )
 Loss from asset devaluation (2)     85,021       12,397       36,683       5,527  
 Inventory write-down (3)     55,973       8,161       (2,733 )     (412 )
 Bad debt expense (4)     210,058       30,628       71,565       10,783  
 Adjusted EBITDA     10,258       1,495       51,552       7,768  

 

(1) EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
(2) Non-cash write-down of fixed assets and land use rights
(3) Non-cash inventory write-down
(4) Non-cash write-off of bad debt expense

 

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CHINA CERAMICS CO., LTD.

 Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP: Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA (1)

Years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017

(all figures in 000’s)

 

    2018     2017  
    RMB     USD     RMB     USD  
 Net loss     (418,674 )     (63,358 )     (88,026 )     (13,037 )
 Interest expense     -       -       213       32  
 Interest income     (36 )     (5 )     (32 )     (5 )
 Income tax expense     209       32       9,741       1,443  
 Depreciation and amortization expense     11,608       1,757       15,514       2,298  
 EBITDA     (406,893 )     (61,574 )     (62,590 )     (9,269 )
 Loss from asset devaluation (2)     85,021       12,866       36,683       5,433  
 Inventory write-down (reversal) (3)     55,973       8,470       (2,733 )     (405 )
 Bad debt expense (4)     316,438       47,887       71,565       10,599  
 Adjusted EBITDA     50,539       7,649       42,925       6,358  

 

(1) EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
(2) Non-cash write-down of fixed assets and land use rights
(3) Non-cash inventory write-down
(4) Non-cash write-off of bad debt expense

 

 

Source: China Ceramics Co., Ltd.

 

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