Orient Overseas (International) Limited made a return to profitability today, turning a US$230 million loss in the first half last year into a net profit of $1.3 billion this time around.

A large portion of the revenue was realised from the sale of its mainland property development division earlier this year, but strong demand and solid freight rates on all major trades serviced by the group's liner division, Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), also contributed to the bulging coffers.