The a2 Milk Company interim boss Geoff Babidge says the company has benefited from the coronavirus outbreak in China, with sales in the first two months of the year ahead of expectations, but it was too early to predict the longer term effects.

Local infant formula makers' factories were shut down as the virus took hold and Beijing looked to contain its spread, but a2 Milk - along with its distribution partner China State Farm - has continued to deliver its products to consumers.