BASF sees biocatalysis as a key future strategy
Biocatalytic processes represent a key strategy for future innovation at BASF, and will enable the company to open up new business areas outside its current product areas. According to Dr Stefan Marcinowski, board member and research executive director, the company is expecting growth rates of up to 8% a year for its biocatalysis products and is predicting that within the next 10-15 years almost all amino acids will be produced by means of biotechnology, and numerous specialty chemicals will be manufactured using enzymatic processes.
The performance of the fine chemicals division was one of the brighter spots in BASF's third quarter results. Despite a noticeable downturn in the business overall, sales increased by more than 20% and income from operations before special items rose to €31m (US$27m). Products for animal nutrition and for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries showed particularly good results.