International. Clariant announced sales for the first half of 2018 of CHF (Swiss francs) 3,389 million compared to CHF 3,132 million in the first half of 2017. This corresponds to 7% growth in local currency and 8% in Swiss francs. Sales growth was supported by organic growth contributions from all business areas, in particular Catalysis and Care Chemicals.
Most regions contributed to good sales growth. Sales in Asia advanced by an excellent 12% in local currency. This improvement was due to a particularly strong sales expansion in China. In Latin America, sales grew by 12%, reflecting the recovery of the macroeconomic environment in this region. Sales in North America increased by 7% and by 3% in Europe.
Care Chemicals and Catalysis reported continuous excellent sales developments. Sales at Care Chemicals increased 9% in local currency driven by both Consumer Care and Industrial Applications. Catalysis sales increased considerably by 22% in local currency with a notable organic sales growth of 15%.
Sales in Natural Resources increased by 4% in local currency due to better demand from the oil market. Plastics & Coatings reported 3% growth in local currency versus a strong base comparable to the three Commercial Units joining the development.
Clariant expects the good economic environment in mature markets, which represent a high comparable base, to continue. Emerging markets are expected to provide support with Latin America showing signs of recovery.
