Price increase for engineering plastics

Bayer MaterialScience AG is to increase its prices for Durethan® A, Durethan® B, Lustran® ABS, Lustran® SAN, Novodur®, Pocan® and Triax® throughout Europe (Regions: Europa, Middle East, Africa).

The upward trend in the price of crude oil in recent months has led to a drastic rise in product, energy and transportation costs, and the price increases we have implemented to date have not been sufficient to cover costs.

This situation has obliged the company to act. The price increases will be as follows: SCP Durethan® A and B 0.20 €/kg Pocan® 0.15 €/kg STY Novodur®. Lustran® ABS 0.25 €/kg Lustran® SAN 0.30 €/kg Triax® 0.25 €/kg

In connection with the reorganization of the Bayer Group, substantial parts of the polymers business will shortly be transferred to the new, globally operating chemical company LANXESS. The new company, comprising most of Bayer's chemical business and some of Bayer MaterialScience's business units, is to be listed on the stock market under the name LANXESS at the beginning of 2005 at the latest.