Almatis recently announced global price increases for tabular alumina, calcined alumina, calcium aluminate cement and spinel products. The price increases will range from 12 to 22% and are effective for all contracts placed after January 1, 2005. The costs of raw materials and energy continue to increase and will only be partially offset with this price adjustment. "At times of worldwide shortages of aluminas, we at Almatis remain focused on high-quality manufacturing and meeting the demands of our customers," said Dr. Gangolf Kriechbaum, Almatis chief commercial officer.

For more information, call (49) 069-9573-4128 or e-mail andreas.puetz@almatis.com.