Wacker-Chemie GmbH and Dow Corning Corp. recently announced their intent to form a joint venture in Asia to manufacture silicone intermediates and fumed silica. These products are used in thousands of finished products for industrial and consumer applications, ranging from construction and lubricants to electronics and personal care. The companies would jointly develop world-class manufacturing of basic materials. Each company would bring its unique expertise and technology to develop what is planned to be the leading fully integrated silicone intermediates and silica site in Asia. The companies believe that the cost and quality advantages of an integrated site in the region would benefit local customers and help further develop local markets and communities. Wacker and Dow Corning would independently develop and operate their own manufacturing facilities for finished products at the same site. Each company would continue to compete and operate independently in the market place, both inside and outside of Asia.

For additional information, call (49) 896279-1830, fax (49) 896279-1239, e-mail christof.bachmair@wacker.com or visit http://www.wacker.com or http://www.dowcorning.com .