Country Representative Hiroaki Ito on the Japanese business:

Mr. Ito, what are your views on the current market situation in Japan ?

The Japanese economy is stronger than ever and will have vital influence on the future of the markets in Asia-Pacific. This positive development has been triggered mainly by far-reaching restructuring measures in the private economy and through targeted reforms of the economic and legal framework during recent years. At the same time, Japan is further advancing its role as an international reference market and technology leader.

What impact does this development have on LANXESS?

In Japan, LANXESS will benefit from this positive development. We aim to strengthen our market position to further generate long-term profitable growth. This also includes further expanding our sales force. In addition, Japan’s importance as an international reference market offers business potentials for LANXESS locations outside Japan. Successful business development with global enterprises in Japan, for example, often leads to business opportunities with their overseas transplants. Furthermore, our customers often insist on technical product approbation of LANXESS products in Japan, before they are used in their worldwide production.

Mr. Ito, thanks for the interview.