Ciba Specialty Chemicals hikes water treatment product prices in NAFTA region

TARRYTOWN, NY, Oct. 21, 2004 -- Ciba Specialty Chemicals announced that its Water Treatment business in the NAFTA region will increase prices for its Water Treatment products 10 to 15%, effective Nov. 1, or where contracts may allow. This price increase includes the flocculant, coagulant, monomer and specialty monomer product lines.

"Escalating raw material costs related to energy and major chemical feedstock increases have continued to rise to record levels. This price increase is necessary to offset the rise in these costs, and will allow us to remain a reliable and competitive supplier to the water treatment industry, providing our customers with innovative and quality products along with consistent high levels of service," says Dave Muldoon, head of Ciba's NAFTA water business line.

Ciba Specialty Chemicals is a global company dedicated to producing high-value effects for its customers' products. We strive to be the partner of choice for our customers, offering them innovative products and one-stop expert service. We create effects that improve the quality of life - adding performance, protection, color and strength to textiles, plastics, paper, automobiles, buildings, home and personal care products and much more. Ciba Specialty Chemicals is active in more than 120 countries around the world and is committed to be a leader in its chosen markets. In 2003, the Company generated sales of 4.9 billion US dollars and invested 207 million in R&D.

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