Chiquita has reported a strong end to last year, with profits up considerably compared with the previous year.

Fourth quarter 2004 net income was announced as $25 million, compared with $8m for the same period in 2003.

Fernando Aguirre, chairman and chief executive said: "We made significant progress in 2004 and achieved the best fourth quarter result in years.

"We are greatly encouraged by our year-end position, which is much stronger than a year ago as a result of our debt reduction and improved capital structure, solid operating cash flow, the depth of our leadership team and the marketing initiatives we commenced.

"In addition, we have been able to return value to our shareholders in the form of a share repurchase and a quarterly dividend program, demonstrating the confidence we have in Chiquita's ability to continue generating strong cash flows," he added. "We enter 2005 with optimism in our ability to deliver sustainable, profitable growth in the future."

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