Clariant to Acquire Masterbatches Business from Ciba Specialty Chemicals

04/10/2006 - 11:08

Clariant today announced the intention to acquire the Ciba
Specialty Chemicals' masterbatches business for an undisclosed price
in order to further strengthen its globally leading position for color
and additive concentrates for plastic products. The transaction is
subject to approval of the relevant authorities and is expected to be
closed before the end of the year.

With production facilities in France, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia
and around 300 employees Ciba Specialty Chemicals' masterbatches
business generates annual sales of approximately CHF 80 million. The
acquisition will help Clariant's Masterbatches division to optimize
its service capabilities to the European countries and to enhance its
presence in the fast growing Middle Eastern and Asia Pacific markets.

"The acquisition of Ciba's masterbatches business perfectly fits
into Clariant's strategy of expanding number one market positions and
driving growth in service-driven businesses. It gives us the
opportunity to leverage our technological expertise and to further
provide innovative solutions," said Chief Executive Officer Jan
Secher.

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Calendar of Corporate Events

November 7, 2006 Nine Month 2006 Results
February 20, 2007 Full Year 2006 Results; Annual Media Conference
April 2, 2007 Annual General Meeting
May 8, 2007 First Quarter 2007 Results
August 2, 2007 First Half 2007 Results
November 7, 2007 Nine Month 2007 Results

Clariant - Exactly your chemistry.
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Clariant is a global leader in the field of specialty chemicals.
Strong business relationships, commitment to outstanding service and
wide-ranging application know-how make Clariant a preferred partner
for its customers.

Clariant, which is represented on five continents with over 100
group companies, employs around 22,500 people. Headquartered in
Muttenz near Basel, Switzerland, it generated sales of around CHF 8.2
billion in 2005.

Clariant's businesses are organized in five divisions: Textile,
Leather & Paper Chemicals, Pigments & Additives, Functional Chemicals,
Life Science Chemicals and Masterbatches.

Clariant is committed to sustainable growth springing from its own
innovative strength. Clariant's innovative products play a key role in
its customers' manufacturing and treatment processes or else add value
to their end products. The company's success is based on the know-how
of its people and their ability to identify new customer needs at an
early stage and to work together with customers to develop innovative,
efficient solutions.