Heineken, the world's third-largest brewer, has posted a 15% rise in profits for 2001.

Net profits before one-off items rose to 715m euros (�436m; $623m) from 621m euros the previous year.

"Both Heineken's profit and outlook are completely in line. These are solid results," said Anneke Groen, an analyst at Rabo Securities.

The Dutch brewer said it expected further profit growth in the coming year.

And chief executive Karel Vuursteen also said the company would be seeking future growth opportunities both through organic growth of its Heineken beer and other brands, and through acquisitions.

The company hopes to expand in China "where a number of international brewers are stepping in and out of the market. Local consolidation is taking place in China and this offers opportunities in time," Mr Vuursteen said.