International. Clariant announced first quarter 2018 sales of CHF (Swiss francs) 1,722 million compared to CHF 1,602 million in the first quarter of 2017. This corresponds to 7% growth in local currency and Swiss francs.
All Commercial Areas contributed to the growth of these sales, with special strength in Catalysis and Care Chemicals. Organic sales increased 5% in local currency driven by higher volumes and supported by a positive pricing effect.
All geographic regions contributed to the progression in the first quarter. Growth in local currency was most pronounced in Asia, with 15% driven by substantial expansion in China, while sales in Latin America increased by 11% as a result of the recovery of the macroeconomic environment. Sales in North America advanced by 5% and in the Middle East and Africa by 4% in local currency. Europe grew by a solid 2% despite having a very strong comparable base.
At Care Chemicals and Catalysis, excellent sales expansion continued. Sales at Care Chemicals increased by 9% in local currency, mainly supported by Consumer Care and Aviation. Catalysis sales advanced a vigorous 36% in local currency with excellent organic sales growth of 19%.
Sales of Natural Resources grew by 2% in local currency amid the progressive recovery of the oil market. Plastics & Coatings delivered another 2% growth in local currency against a solid comparable base. The three Commercial Units contributed to the breakthrough.
EBITDA before exceptional items increased by 7% in Swiss francs to 268 million Swiss francs compared to 250 million Swiss francs in the previous year. Increases especially in Catalysis, but also in Care Chemicals, as well as good performance in Plastics & Coatings, led to improved profitability.
