The Kochi-based AVT Natural Products Ltd has been named by Forbes in its list of 200 best companies from Asia-Pacific region with under $1billion revenue.

AVT Natural is part of AV Thomas Group of companies based in South India.

The list, published on August 18, is based on the financial data of the preceding 12 months. AVT Natural with $47 million (Rs 260 crore) sales, $11 million (Rs 60 crore) net income and $52 million (Rs 290 crore) market capitalisation, is one among 23 companies from India to find a place in list.

The list is recognition of the importance of small and medium enterprises in powering the Asia-Pacific economy, a press release said.

It comprises companies from China and Hong Kong, India, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand.

Only publicly-traded, profitable companies with revenue greater than $5 million but less than $1 billion were considered for the list. It was further trimmed down based on business performance indicators such as sales and earnings growth as well as the return on equity delivered in the preceding 12 months and over three years.