SAMUDERA Shipping Line said first-half group net profit increased 20 per cent to $10.3 million. The improvement stemmed from greater turnover, higher interest income, a foreign exchange gain and results from an associated company. Turnover rose 12 per cent to $200 million, compared with the same period last year. The increase was due mainly to growth of container lifting volume and an extra tanker which started operating in May. The group will further explore business opportunities in China, the Mediterranean, the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. The group also bought a chemical tanker in July 2000, which will contribute to earnings. It expects growth to continue.