MARCH 12–DARMSTADT, Germany – Merck KGaA says it will grow its global business with ultrapure chemicals for the semiconductor industry not only through its own efforts, but also via strong alliances and partnerships.

As of Jan. 1, the company thus transferred its
European activities for the semiconductor industry to a legally independent subgroup that is wholly owned by Merck KGaA and has its management company
in Darmstadt.

The German subsidiary of this holding company, Merck Electronic Chemicals GmbH, has already started its operations with around 50 employees. The Electronic Chemicals business includes ultra high purity process chemicals used primarily for the production of microchips under cleanroom conditions by customers in the semiconductor industry.

In the course of 2003, additional local companies will be established in France, Malaysia and Singapore under the umbrella of Merck Electronic Chemicals Holding. A total of around 550 employees will work for Merck Electronic Chemicals worldwide.

Merck KGaA generated global sales of $192 million in 2002 with Electronic Chemicals, one of five divisions in its Chemicals business sector.