All regions contributed to growth
Our results also reconfirmed that we continue to benefit from our ability to extract value from our mature markets. Nowhere is this more evident than in Western Europe where, despite the challenging market conditions, we significantly outperformed the sector with EBIT (beia) growth of 5.1 per cent.
Performance from our Central and Eastern European (CEE), African and Asian markets was outstanding with each beginning to deliver on their potential for both profit and volume growth. CEE is now our second biggest profit contributor. Consolidated volume grew by 9 per cent and EBIT (beia) rose by 22 per cent. With an 18 per cent volume growth and 41 per cent EBIT (beia) increase, Africa and Middle East was the fastest growing region in 2007. The Americas region was again consistent in growing both its consolidated volumes and EBIT (Beia) and our Asia Pacific region continued its positive growth in volumes, revenue and profitability.
In the first half of 2007 we also made two very positive steps, which will help us to maintain strong regional and market performance in the future. Firstly, in May, we renewed the sales and marketing agreement with our partners FEMSA in the USA for a further 10 years. This will allow our American operation to mature into a true portfolio business, firmly positioned in the growth segment of the US beer market. Secondly, we regained control of the Amstel brand in South Africa and decided to construct a brewery there. This will mean a stronger, more profitable business in partnership with Diageo and Namibian Breweries.