DuPont Fluoroproducts Announces Land Reservation in China
Sets Stage for Series of Investments Over Next Several Years
WILMINGTON, Del., September 24, 2003 DuPont Fluoroproducts and DuPont China Holding Co., Ltd., announced they have signed a land reservation agreement with officials of the Hai Yu Township of the Changshu Municipality in the Jiangsu province of the People's Republic of China. The agreement supports DuPont's intent to establish a fluorochemical and fluoropolymer manufacturing center in China over the next several years. Total investment could reach $100 million.
The first facility planned for the Changshu site, pending approval and formation of a joint venture between DuPont and Zhonghao New Chemical Material Co. Ltd. later this year, will produce HFC refrigerant blends to support the fast-growing air conditioning and refrigeration industry in China. Use of these products, for which DuPont holds global patent rights, will increase globally as the terms of the Montreal Protocol are implemented.
Zhonghao New Chemical Material Co. is an affiliate of the Shanghai 3F New Materials Co., Ltd., which also is a leading manufacturer of fluoropolymers in China. DuPont says it is exploring with Shanghai 3F opportunities for joint projects to manufacture and source both fluoropolymers and additional fluorochemicals.
"The land reservation agreement in Changshu is a first step in a long term commitment for DuPont Fluoroproducts in China," said Richard J. Angiullo, vice president and general manager for DuPont Fluoroproducts.
"Fluorine-based products deliver unique value to society, whether in the form of safety, environmental stewardship or convenience," said Angiullo. "High-performance products such as low combustible wire insulation, semiconductor or chemical processing equipment, refrigerants and air conditioning coolants, or nonstick coatings for cookware and appliances, will meet essential needs in serving the rapidly growing industrial base in China, as well as delivering value to consumers. We look forward to serving customers with a reliable supply of products and services and to being a member of the community in Changshu."
DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by solving problems and creating solutions that make people's lives better, safer and easier. Operating in more than 70 countries, the company offers a wide range of products and services to markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.
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9/24/03