U.S. International Trade Commission Votes to Investigate Unlawful Importation of Ace-K Sweeteners from China Alleged to Infringe Celanese Patent

Celanese Corporation (NYSE: CE), a global technology and specialty materials company, today announced that the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has voted to institute an investigation into the unlawful importation into the United States of certain high-potency sweeteners, specifically Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K), in response to the company’s recently filed complaint with the Commission.

The investigation centers on alleged violations of section 337 of the U.S. Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States of high-potency sweeteners that are alleged to infringe U.S. Patent No. 9,024,016, owned by Celanese.

Celanese contends a number of Ace-K manufacturers have unlawfully introduced sweeteners made via Celanese’s patented technology from China into the United States market.

In the investigation, the Commission will consider a general exclusion order barring the importation of all infringing sweeteners.

Celanese continuously invests in manufacturing and quality improvements and is dedicated to robust research, development and customer support for the sweetener products manufactured by its patented process. The company intends to protect these investments to supply customers with quality engineered products, and intends to vigorously defend its patented technology against unlawful importation and uses in the United States.

Further details of this action by the USITC to initiate an investigation can be found here: https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2016/er1122ll689.htm

About Celanese

Celanese Corporation is a global technology leader in the production of differentiated chemistry solutions and specialty materials used in most major industries and consumer applications. Our two complementary business cores, Acetyl Chain and Materials Solutions, use the full breadth of Celanese’s global chemistry, technology and business expertise to create value for our customers and the corporation. As we partner with our customers to solve their most critical business needs, we strive to make a positive impact on our communities and the world through The Celanese Foundation. Based in Dallas, Celanese employs approximately 7,000 employees worldwide and had 2015 net sales of $5.7 billion. For more information about Celanese and our product offerings, visit www.celanese.com or our blog at www.celaneseblog.com.

All registered trademarks are owned by Celanese International Corporation or its affiliates.

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