French luxury brand Hermes reports operating profit in the first half rose to 621 million euros ($818 million) from 584 million euros last year, thanks to strong Asian demand.

Consolidated net income rose eight per cent to 413 million euros ($542 million), it says.

Turnover in Asia increased 17 per cent, in the US 13 per cent and in Europe seven per cent.

The group is retaining its mid-term objective of revenue growth at constant rates of around 10 per cent.

Hermes is 23.1 per cent owned by LVMH Group.