Chemical company BASF posted the best results in its history in 2005. The company again grew profitably and faster than the market in 2005 on the basis of its own efforts and astute acquisitions. At its Annual Press Conference, BASF reported sales of €42.7 billion (up 14 per cent) and income from operations (EBIT) before special items of more than €6.1 billion (up 17 per cent).

Our results speak for themselves. We increased the premium earned on our cost of capital to just under €2.4 billion, and I would like to thank the entire BASF team for its outstanding achievements,” said Dr. Jürgen Hambrecht, Chairman of BASF’s Board of Executive Directors.

With an increase of 15.4 percent compared with 2004, the chemicals segment posted record sales as a result of higher volumes and prices. In 2005, sales by location of company grew by double-digit rates in Europe (plus 11 percent), North America (plus 17 per cent) and Asia Pacific (plus 23 per cent). Sales in South America, Africa and Middle East rose 7 percent.