Clariant Chemicals posts Q1 results, sales up by 16%

Speaking on Clariant India’s performance, R A  Shah, chairman, Clariant Chemicals (India), said, “I am happy to note that Clariant continued to perform well in Q1, by reshaping its portfolio and maintaining profitability across its core business units. Despite the volatile and adverse economic environment – especially in Europe, we were able to meet and exceed our key targets. In the coming quarters, we will continue to focus on our core business units and will look out for investment opportunities, which will benefit our shareholders and employees.”

The shareholders approved the final dividend of Rs 17.50 per share (175%), which together with the interim dividend of Rs 10 per share already paid in August 2012, makes a total dividend of Rs 27.50 per share (275%); as compared to Rs 60 per share (600%) paid in the previous year, including a special dividend of Rs 30 per share.

The main business activity of Clariant Chemicals (India) involves manufacture of specialty chemicals for domestic and industrial use. It produces whiteness, colour, coating, and strength solutions for the paper market with focused product range to enhance both optical and functional properties of all kinds of paper and board.

Dr Deepak Parikh, managing director, Clariant Chemicals (India), said, “As one of India’s leading specialty chemicals business, we are committed to sustainable and innovative growth in India. In light of the competitive market environment, our clear priorities for the fiscal year are to add value with competitive and innovative solutions.”

“The specialty chemicals industry in India is expected to more than quadruple in the next decade and Clariant sees India as a robust market for specialty chemicals,” concluded Parikh.