BASF is the world's leading chemical. Our goal is to grow profitably and further increase the value of our company. We help our customers to be more successful through intelligent system solutions and high-quality products. BASF's portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics,performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. Through new technologies we can tap into additional marketopportunities. We conduct our business in accordance with the principles ofsustainable development. In 2003, BASF had sales of approximately $42 billionand over 87,000 employees worldwide.