Fourth quarter loss hits 2008 result/Volumes down/Plastics segments see plummeting sales and profits

摘要

Dow Chemical(Midland,Michigan/USA;www.dow.com)has reported a net loss of USD 1.55 bn for the fourth quarter of 2008 on sales down 23% at USD 10.9 bn.Full year net profit fell to USD 579m,compared with USD 2.89 bn in 2007,on sales that increased 7.5% to a new record of USD 57.5 bn.The fourth quarter earnings decline is said to reflect charges of USD 978m relating to restructuring activities,goodwill impairment losses,the impact of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike,R&D charges,the failed K-Dow joint venture and the planned acquisition of Rohm and Haas.