6-K UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 6-K REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 August 3, 2005 BASF AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT (Exact name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter) BASF CORPORATION (Translation of Registrant's name into English) Carl Bosch Strasse 38, LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY 67056 (Address of Principal Executive Offices) Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F Form 20-F X Form 40-F Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes No X If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the Registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82- . BASF Raises Outlook for 2005 LUDWIGSHAFEN, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 3, 2005--BASF (NYSE:BF)(FWB:BAS)(LSE:BFA): -- Significant increase in sales to EUR 10.6 billion (plus 14 percent) -- EBIT before special items of EUR 1.7 billion (plus 31 percent) -- Successful start of Verbund site in Nanjing, China -- Earnings jump in North America -- Outlook for 2005: sales and earnings above strong 2004 level BASF remained on its path to success in the second quarter of 2005 and again posted very strong earnings. Sales rose 14 percent to EUR 10.6 billion compared with the second quarter of 2004; income from operations (EBIT) before special items climbed 31 percent to EUR 1.7 billion. Cumulative sales in the first half of 2005 amounted to EUR 20.7 billion, or almost 13 percent more than in the same period of the previous year. In the first half, BASF increased EBIT before special items by 32 percent to EUR 3.2 billion compared with 2004. Sales growth was primarily due to urgently needed price increases. Although raw material costs were volatile and rose continuously, BASF succeeded in gradually raising its margins to the necessary level. The good volume growth of 3 percent in the second quarter and 2 percent in the first half builds on the already strong level posted in 2004 and fits with the company's "value over volume" concept. During his presentation of the quarterly results on August 3, 2005, BASF Chairman Dr. Jurgen Hambrecht thanked all employees for their outstanding performance in a difficult economic environment: "Prices for raw materials, and for crude oil in particular, have reached unprecedented levels. Economic growth remains weak in many parts of Europe. The geopolitical situation remains tense." Outlook for full year 2005: Stronger performance than in 2004 Hambrecht expects the chemical industry to continue on a growth path in the second half of the year. At approximately 3 percent, however, he anticipates production growth for the full year to be slower than in the record year 2004, which represents a very high baseline for further growth. The strongest impulses for growth are again likely to continue to come from North America and Asia. "The coming months therefore offer both opportunities and risks. Our aim is to capitalize on the opportunities and to assess the risks correctly. We want to complete our major capital expenditure projects on schedule and to continue with our successful measures for restructuring and achieving additional cost savings. At the same time, we are working hard to further expand our market position as The Chemical Company," said Hambrecht. Overall, Hambrecht is confident when looking to the future, and the company has raised its outlook for the full year 2005: "We are expecting significantly higher sales and an increase in EBIT before special items compared with our already strong performance in 2004." This forecast assumes that economic growth is not impacted by unexpected events such as terror attacks, dramatic increases in raw material prices or currency fluctuations. Sales and earnings performance Chief Financial Officer Dr. Kurt Bock pointed out that both EBIT and earnings after tax in the first half of 2005 were higher than the full year figures in 2003 and 2002. "This is an indication of BASF's current earning power," he said. "We increased sales prices in our chemical businesses in the second quarter of 2005. In addition, the higher oil price had a positive impact on sales. Compared with the high level posted in the second quarter of 2004, most of our operating divisions also increased sales volumes slightly," said Bock. After special charges of EUR 70 million, EBIT was EUR 1.6 billion in the second quarter. The charges were primarily related to restructuring measures. Net income increased to a lesser extent than pre-tax earnings. This was due to the level of noncompensable oil production taxes, which are tied to the oil price. These taxes more than doubled in the second quarter, increasing to EUR 267 million. Net of this effect, the tax rate was at the same level as in the second quarter of 2004 at approximately 34 percent. Earnings per share increased 14 percent to EUR 1.48. The decline in the number of shares outstanding as a result of share buybacks had a positive effect. Successful projects in all regions BASF is continuing with its restructuring measures and is optimizing its portfolio in all regions. Second-quarter sales by location of company in Europe totaled EUR 6.2 billion. This corresponds to an increase of 11 percent. EBIT before special items rose 28 percent in Europe. There was very positive news from the Ludwigshafen site in the second quarter. After three years, the Site Project has been successfully completed, thus significantly improving the site's competitiveness. At the same time, costs in Ludwigshafen were permanently reduced by EUR 480 million per year. In North America, sales rose by more than 17 percent. In local currency terms, sales increased by 23 percent. This was due equally to higher prices and higher volumes. The increase in EBIT before special items by 65 percent to EUR 351 million is evidence of the success of the company's measures to restructure its business in North America. BASF has already achieved its targeted savings of $250 million, one year ahead of schedule. In the South America, Africa, Middle East region, sales by location of company declined by 4 percent. This was due to unfavorable conditions in the agro business as a result of extremely dry weather in parts of South America. EBIT before special items fell by 73 percent. The Asia Pacific region continues to demonstrate rapid growth. BASF increased sales by location of company by 24 percent and EBIT before special items by 34 percent. "China continues to be the most powerful engine for growth in the region. We want to increase the performance of this engine even further through major investments in China, in particular the startup of our Verbund site with our partner Sinopec in Nanjing," said Hambrecht. In Nanjing, the two partners have invested $2.9 billion in their joint venture BASF-YPC. With its steam cracker and nine downstream plants, the new site has an annual capacity of 1.7 million metric tons of high-quality chemicals. BASF also announced that it had recently put the world's largest PolyTHF(R) complex into full production at the integrated site in Caojing near Shanghai. PolyTHF(R) is an important component in the production of spandex fibers for the textile industry. The new plants are an important step in achieving the company's strategic goals in Asia: By 2010, BASF aims to generate 20 percent of sales and earnings in its chemical activities in Asia Pacific. BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF's intelligent solutions and high-value products help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future. In 2004, BASF had approximately 82,000 employees and posted sales of more than EUR 37 billion. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA), New York (BF), Paris (BA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com. The following information is also available on the Internet at the addresses shown: Interim report (from 7:30 a.m. CEST) www.basf.de/interimreport (English) www.basf.de/zwischenbericht (German) Press release (from 7:30 a.m. CEST) www.basf.de/pressrelease (English) www.basf.de/pressemitteilungen (German) Live-Transmission (from 10:00 a.m. CEST) www.basf.de/pcon (English) www.basf.de/pk (German) Speech Dr. Jurgen Hambrecht/Dr. Kurt Bock - print version (from 10:00 a.m. CEST) www.basf.de/pressconference (English) www.basf.de/pressekonferenz (German) Photos (from 7:30 a.m. CEST) www.basf.de/photos (English) www.basf.de/fotos (German) Live transmission Analyst Conference (from 3:00 p.m. CEST) www.basf.de/share (English) www.basf.de/aktie (German) Information about BASF shares www.basf.de/share (English) www.basf.de/aktie (German) Forward-looking statements This release contains forward-looking statements under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of BASF management and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of BASF to be materially different from those that may be expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include those discussed in BASF's Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements contained in this release. Strong second quarter, improved outlook for full year Second-Quarter Results April - June 2005, published on August 3, 2005 Overview BASF Group 2nd 1st Quarter Half Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 10,581 9,314 13.6 20,664 18,365 12.5 Income from operations before interest, taxes amortization and depreciation (EBITDA) 2,149 1,815 18.4 4,168 3,429 21.6 Income from operations (EBIT) before special items 1,657 1,266 30.9 3,220 2,441 31.9 Income from operations (EBIT) 1,587 1,250 27.0 3,086 2,325 32.7 Financial result (82) 12 . (37) (28) (32.1) Income before taxes and minority interests 1,505 1,262 19.3 3,049 2,297 32.7 Net income 778 714 9.0 1,639 1,234 32.8 Earnings per share (EUR) 1.48 1.30 13.8 3.08 2.23 38.1 EBIT before special items in percent of sales 15.7 13.6 - 15.6 13.3 - Cash provided by operating activities 977 1,218 (19.8) 2,081 2,206 (5.7) Additions to fixed assets* 850 466 82.4 1,212 984 23.2 Excluding acquisitions 482 466 3.4 844 923 (8.6) Amortization and depreciation* 562 565 (0.5) 1,082 1,104 (2.0) Segment assets (end of period)** 28,631 27,521 4.0 - - - Personnel costs 1,393 1,338 4.1 2,670 2,631 1.5 Number of employees (end of period) 80,946 85,124 (4.9) - - - * Tangible and intangible fixed assets (including acquisitions) ** Tangible and intangible fixed assets, inventories and business-related receivables Starting from January 1, 2005, the accounting and reporting of the BASF Group is performed according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The previous year's figures have been restated in accordance with IFRS. Contents 1 BASF Group Business Review and Outlook 4 Chemicals 5 Plastics 6 Performance Products 7 Agricultural Products & Nutrition 8 Oil & Gas 9 Regions 10 Consolidated Statements of Income 11 Consolidated Balance Sheets 12 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 13 Consolidated Statements of Equity 14 Segment Reporting BASF shares 2nd Quarter 2005 1st Half 2005 Share price (end of period)* (EUR) 55.00 - High* (EUR) 56.82 58.30 Low* (EUR) 50.11 50.11 Average daily trade (million shares)* 2.84 2.73 BASF share performance** +4.0% +7.3% DAX 30 performance** +5.5% +7.8% EURO STOXX 50 performance** +6.0% +10.0% Market capitalization (end of period) (billion EUR) 29.2 - Number of shares (end of period) (million shares)*** 531.7 - XETRA trading With dividends reinvested Including bought back shares intended for cancellation From our innovation centers Combined protection against sunburn Effective filters protect skin from harmful UV radiation The requirements placed on sunscreens are high: They should reliably provide the longest possible protection against UV radiation, be resistant to water and sweat, and have a pleasant conditioning effect. These demands are met by effective products containing organically and inorganically based UV-filtering substances. Often several of these chemical UV filters are combined in one sunscreen product to filter out the complete wavelength spectrum of UV-A and UV-B radiation from sunlight. "Sun care products are being used with increasing frequency and with a definite trend toward higher sun protection factors," says Dr. Valerie Andre of BASF's Strategic Marketing Cosmetics. "Even with an extremely high sun protection factor, our UV filters are suitable for producing sun cosmetics with a delicately creamy and transparent texture which remain effective even after prolonged sunbathing." BASF is the world's largest manufacturer of UV filters and supplies highly effective organic and inorganic UV-A and UV-B filters for many prominent sunscreen manufacturers. Inorganic UV filters are produced from microfine particles of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide which reflect the incident UV light like tiny mirrors. They cover the longer-wave UV-A but also the shorter-wave UV-B ranges and are used especially in sunscreens with very high sun protection factors. Organic UV filters, on the other hand, absorb the radiation; in other words, they process the absorbed energy within themselves. Organic UV filters are usually effective in the UV-B range. BASF's cosmetic experts, however, are currently engaged in introducing a novel organic absorber for UV-A radiation. This innovative product will shortly be making its debut on the market under the tradename Uvinul(R) A Plus. The new active ingredient can be superbly combined with other organic and inorganic filters to provide optimal protection. Not only is it especially effective in screening out UV-A radiation, it is also completely photo-stable, thereby assuring a long duration of action. In addition, it can be combined with other cosmetic raw materials without any problems. Even with a high sun protection factor, BASF's UV filters are suitable for producing sun cosmetics with a delicately creamy and transparent texture which remain effective even after prolonged sunbathing. From our innovation centers Firefighting with superabsorbents Phos-Chek(R) Focstop from Astaris can also be applied from the air, for example from helicopters. Environmentally friendly water-based gel offers firefighters numerous advantages In the hot, dry summer months, forest and bush fires can threaten both property and lives. Firefighters have a dangerous job, and so innovative extinguishing and fire protection agents that make their work easier are extremely welcome. As the world's leading manufacturer of superabsorbents, BASF has therefore developed a firefighting gel based on these functional polymers. The gel is distributed worldwide by Astaris LLC -- a leading provider of chemical firefighting solutions -- under the brand name Phos-Chek(R) Focstop. The product has been approved for use by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service agency under the brand name Phos-Chek(R) AquaGel in the United States. The new firefighting gel can applied either as a protective cover against fire over homes, gardens or other terrain, or used directly for firefighting. Applied via suitable hoses or aerially from helicopters or planes, the gel can effectively protect neighboring homes or villages from forest or bush fires. "Phos-Chek(R) Focstop is a new, high-performance, environmentally friendly product that is available to firefighters with immediate effect," says Dr. Martin Beck, from BASF's acrylic monomers and superabsorbents business unit. "We are expanding the areas of application for superabsorbents beyond the field of hygiene, and are thus strengthing our specialties portfolio." Unlike conventional firefighting gels, Phos-Chek(R) Focstop does not leave an oily residue on surfaces after use. Consequently, residue cleanup after the fire is extinguished is faster, easier and less expensive. Another advantage is that it is supplied in powder form, and therefore has a longer storage life and requires less warehouse space than ready-mixed gels. Users simply add water to the powder, and the gel is immediately ready to use. Technical superabsorbents are crosslinked polyacrylates and are marketed worldwide by BASF as a direct derivative of acrylic acid. Thanks to their capacity to safely absorb large volumes of liquid, superbsorbents are widely used in the hygiene industry. The advantage for firefighting is that just a small volume of superabsorbents forms a gel when mixed with water. This aqueous gel offers effective and longer lasting protection because it does not seep away as quickly as water. Instead it adheres well to the surfaces in need of protection and can easily be washed off later. BASF Group Business Review and Outlook -- Value over volume concept successful: - Sales +14% - EBIT before special items +31% -- Earnings jump in North America -- Successful start of Nanjing Verbund site in China -- Improved outlook for full year 2005: Sales and EBIT before special items up on 2004 Sales Compared with the same quarter of 2004, we increased sales in the second quarter of 2005 by 14% to EUR 10.6 billion. Sales increased 16% if divestitures and currency effects are not taken into account. The sales growth was due primarily to higher sales prices in our chemical businesses as well as the higher price of oil in the Oil & Gas segment. Sales volumes increased 3% compared with the previous year's high level. Factors influencing sales in comparison with previous year % of sales 2nd Quarter 1st Half Volumes 3 2 Prices 13 14 Currencies (1) (2) Acquisitions/divestitures (1) (1) Total 14 13 In addition to higher sales prices, the increase in sales in the Chemicals segment was due to higher volumes of petrochemicals, as well as the effect of the acquisition of Merck's electronic chemicals business. The Plastics segment also benefited from significantly higher sales prices compared with the same period of 2004, but sales volumes declined for some products. Sales by segment, 2nd quarter 2005 Million EUR Chemicals 2005 2,007 15% 2004 1,748 Plastics 2005 2,924 16% 2004 2,522 Performance 2005 2,098 3% Products 2004 2,029 Agricultural 2005 1,465 (4)% Products & Nutrition 2004 1,527 Oil & Gas 2005 1,650 51% 2004 1,090 The Performance Products segment more than made up for the loss in sales resulting from the divestiture of the printing systems business in the fourth quarter of 2004. Sales in the Agricultural Products & Nutrition segment declined due to the drastic fall in prices for lysine in the Fine Chemicals divisions, and due to currency effects. The sales growth in the Oil & Gas segment was due to higher oil prices and an increase in sales volumes. Special items 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Million EUR 2005 2004 2005 2004 2005 2004 2005 2004 Special items in Income from operations (64) (100) (70) (16) (96) 175 Financial result - (21) - (1) (16) (580) Income before taxes and minority interests (64) (121) (70) (17) (112) (405) Earnings Compared with the same quarter of 2004, we increased income from operations (EBIT) before special items by 31 % to EUR 1,657 million. All segments contributed to the improvement in earnings. In the Chemicals segment, higher raw material costs were largely passed on to the market. Capacity utilization was particularly high in the Petrochemicals division. In the Plastics segment, higher margins for poly-urethanes led to significantly higher earnings. The Performance Products segment posted higher earnings, in particular thanks to the strong performance of the Functional Polymers division. In the Agricultural Products division, we achieved higher earnings due to our higher value portfolio and improved cost structures. Earnings in the Fine Chemicals division remained unsatisfactory. The exploration and production business sector in the Oil & Gas segment benefited from high oil prices and increased production. In the second quarter, EBIT after special items rose 27% to EUR 1.587 million. Special items were primarily related to the planned closure of part of the Chemicals segment's site in Feluy, Belgium, and to restructuring measures in the Fine Chemicals division's vitamin C business. The change in the financial result was due to a decline in the market values of financial derivatives used to hedge interest rate and currency risks. EBIT before special items, 2nd quarter 2005 Million EUR Chemicals 2005 415 22% 2004 340 Plastics 2005 274 52% 2004 180 Performance 2005 272 17% Products 2004 233 Agricultural Products 2005 302 11 % & Nutrition 2004 273 Oil & Gas 2005 579 71% 2004 339 Income before taxes and minority interests increased by 19% to EUR 1,505 million. The tax rate increased to 46% compared with 41 % in the second quarter of 2004. Income taxes contain taxes for oil production that are noncompensable with German corporate income tax. Due to the higher earnings contribution from the exploration and production of oil, these taxes increased from EUR 128 million to EUR 267 million. Net of this effect, the tax rate was at the same level as in the second quarter of 2004 at approximately 34%. Net income rose 9% to EUR 778 million. Earnings per share were EUR 1.48 compared with EUR 1.30 in the same period of the previous year. Outlook We continue to expect global chemical production to grow by approximately 3% in 2005. The United States and Asia will likely continue to drive growth, whereas economic growth in Europe is expected to decline. For 2005, we are forecasting an average price for Brent crude of $50 per barrel and an average dollar exchange rate of $1.25 per euro. Demand for our products remains strong. However, the extremely high and volatile oil price may cause a further increase in raw material prices and restrict economic growth. We intend to rigorously pursue our strategy of value-based growth and continue with our restructuring measures. For the full year 2005, we are expecting significantly higher sales and an increase in EBIT before special items compared with the previous year's strong level (IFRS). Significant events In the first half of 2005, BASF YPC Co. Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture between BASF and SINOPEC, successfully started up a steam cracker and nine downstream plants as planned at the new Verbund site in Nanjing, China. On May 5, 2005, BASF and Shell Chemicals announced that they would sell their 50-50 joint venture Basell, one of the world's leading manufacturers of poly-olefins, to Nell Acquisition S.a.r.l., Luxembourg, an affiliate of New York-based Access Industries. The deal closed on August 1, 2005. The sales price totaled EUR 4.4 billion including debt. On June 25, 2005, BASF announced the acquisition of 100% of the shares in the Swiss fine chemicals company Orgamol S.A. The acquisition significantly strengthens BASF's pharma contract manufacturing business. The Ludwigshafen Site Project was successfully completed, reducing costs at the Ludwigshafen production site by EUR 480 million per year. On June 28, 2005, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia reached a decision in the Empagran case, in which BASF was one of the defendents. The plaintiffs' action was dismissed. On May 19, 2005, BASF Aktiengesellschaft issued a euro benchmark bond with a nominal volume of EUR 1.4 billion, a maturity of seven years and a coupon of 3.375% per year. The proceeds were used to refinance a bond that matured in July. Chemicals -- Sales growth due to higher sales prices -- Rise in earnings; good capacity utilization -- Successful startup of new plants in China Overview Chemicals 2nd Quarter 1st Half Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 2,007 1,748 15 3,829 3,330 15 Thereof Inorganics 268 211 27 475 412 15 Petrochemicals 1,227 1,047 17 2,363 1,966 20 Intermediates 512 490 4 991 952 4 EBITDA 477 459 4 1,021 813 26 EBIT before special items 415 340 22 841 591 42 EBIT before special items in percent of sales 20.7 19.5 - 22.0 17.7 - EBIT 345 335 3 771 569 36 Quarterly sales exceeded EUR 2 billion for the first time despite negative currency effects (volumes 3%, portfolio 2%, prices 12%, currencies -2%). Capacity utilization was high, and earnings increased significantly. In Nanjing, China, all of the Chemical segment's eight production plants successfully started operations. Special items were incurred in association with the planned closure of plants belonging to the Petrochemicals and Intermediates divisions at the site in Feluy, Belgium. Inorganics Sales increased significantly due to the contribution from the electronic chemicals business acquired from Merck in April 2005 and due to price increases for products in the existing portfolio. Higher raw material costs were passed on to the market, especially in the adhesives and impregnating resins business. In addition, persistently strong demand for our catalysts and an improved cost structure for the production of basic chemicals led to an increase in earnings. The integration of the electronic chemicals business acquired from Merck is proceeding as planned and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Petrochemicals A further increase in sales volumes together with price increases resulted in strong sales growth, which eased somewhat in the second half of the quarter. Capacity utilization remained very high, and the division's earnings again exceeded the level posted in the strong second quarter of the previous year. In Nanjing, China, we successfully started operations at a steam cracker with an annual capacity of 600,000 metric tons of ethylene as well as at additional world-scale plants, for example for oxo alcohols and ethylene oxide. We are planning to cease the uncompetitive production of plasticizers at the site in Feluy, Belgium. BASF is focusing on the plasticizers Palatinol(R) N, Palatinol(R) 10P and the innovative specialty Hexamoll DINCH(R). Intermediates The Intermediates division is also rigorously implementing the "value over volume" concept. Sales increased slightly despite a decline in sales volumes. Earnings were significantly higher as a result of fixed cost reductions. In Nanjing, China, plants for propionic and formic acids and for methylamine and dimethylformamide started operations as planned. Plastics -- Strong sales growth despite decline in volumes -- Rigorous restructuring in North America -- Further earnings improvement in Polyurethanes division Overview Plastics 2nd Quarter 1st Half Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 2,924 2,522 16 5,724 4,829 19 Thereof Styrenics 1,128 1,019 11 2,264 1,937 17 Performance Polymers 732 649 13 1,421 1,262 13 Polyurethanes 1,064 854 25 2,039 1,630 25 EBITDA 400 292 37 780 566 38 EBIT before special items 274 180 52 543 335 62 EBIT before special items in percent of sales 9.4 7.1 - 9.5 6.9 - EBIT 280 171 64 548 325 69 Compared with the same quarter of 2004, sales increased significantly as a result of higher sales prices (volumes -5%, prices 22%, currencies -1%). Sales volumes declined in the Styrenics division. The Polyurethanes division was primarily responsible for the strong increase in earnings. Styrenics Sales were higher than in the same period of 2004 due exclusively to high sales prices. Sales growth was especially pronounced in North and South America. Overall, however, it was not possible to compensate for the high and volatile price of the division's most important raw material, benzene. Earnings therefore declined. The sale of our polystyrene site in Joliet, Illinois, is a key element of our business optimization in North America. Performance Polymers The price increases implemented at the start of the year led to an increase in sales. Despite high and volatile prices for important raw materials such as benzene, earnings improved slightly, in particular as a result of stable sales volumes for engineering plastics. In May, we started consolidating nylon 6 production in the United States by expanding capacities in Freeport, Texas. In July, Bosch awarded its "Supplier Award 2005" to BASF as the best supplier of engineering plastics. Polyurethanes The strong increase in sales was almost completely due to higher prices, and was seen in all regions and product groups. Earnings rose significantly as a result of our consistent value orientation. The capacity of the MDI plant in Antwerp was extended from 360,000 to 450,000 metric tons per year, and the expanded plant started operations successfully in May. In July, we further strengthened our global market position by acquiring Huntsman's TDI business. Performance Products -- Further increase in sales and earnings -- Profitable growth, especially in Functional Polymers division -- Strong growth in Asia Overview Performance 2nd Quarter 1st Half Products Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 2,098 2,029 3 4,006 3,958 1 Thereof Performance Chemicals 734 825 (11) 1,428 1,621 (12) Coatings 555 520 7 1,027 1,025 0 Functional Polymers 809 684 18 1,551 1,312 18 EBITDA 366 321 14 670 615 9 EBIT before special items 272 233 17 497 443 12 EBIT before special items in percent of sales 13.0 11.5 - 12.4 11.2 - EBIT 282 230 23 506 433 17 Sales increased, in particular due to price increases (volumes 1%, portfolio -6%, prices 9%, currencies -1 %). The significant improvement in earnings was primarily due to higher margins for functional polymers. Earnings contain special gains from the divestiture of the printing systems business, which has now been completed. Performance Chemicals The decline in sales compared with the same period of 2004 was due to the sale of the printing systems business. Earnings from ongoing business were higher than in the second quarter of 2004, in particular due to the strong performance of performance chemicals for detergents and formulators and for the automotive and oil industry. In Caojing, China, the cornerstone for a new plant to produce coatings raw materials for the Asian market was laid in June. We have added the newly developed polymer Sokalan(R) HP 70 to our portfolio, whose innovative properties enable the very efficient use of cleaning agents in domestic applications. Coatings Strong business with automotive refinish coatings in Europe and North America and the acquisition of the remaining shares in the joint venture BASF NOF Coatings in Japan in April led to an increase in sales. We further expanded our business with decorative paints in South America. Earnings declined slightly due to higher raw material costs and a reduction in the contribution from the automotive (OEM) coatings business. Functional Polymers Price increases resulted in significantly higher sales and earnings in almost all business areas. The earnings growth was particularly strong in North America. Our new production plants for acrylic acid and acrylates in Nanjing, China, successfully started operations. Together with a U.S. customer we have developed and launched a fire-fighting gel, Phos-Chek(R) AquaGel, based on technical superabsorbents. Agricultural Products & Nutrition -- Further increase in earnings in Agricultural Products -- Earnings in Fine Chemicals impacted by significant decline in lysine prices -- Strategic expansion of pharma contract manufacturing business Overview Agricultural 2nd Quarter 1st Half Products Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 1,043 1,071 (3) 2,002 2,054 (3) EBITDA 351 306 15 683 608 12 EBIT before special items 295 239 23 571 493 16 EBIT before special items in percent of sales 28.3 22.3 - 28.5 24.0 - EBIT 291 235 24 575 469 23 As a result of negative currency effects and persistently dry weather in parts of South America and southern Europe, sales declined slightly overall (volumes 1%, prices -1%, currencies -3%). Some factors, however, had a positive effect on sales: the continued successful launch of innovative products such as boscalid and F 500(R), as well as significantly higher demand for fungicides in North America, where our customers prepared themselves to combat the possible spread of Asian soybean rust. Earnings increased significantly despite negative currency effects, primarily as a result of our higher value product portfolio and improved cost structures. Overview Fine Chemicals 2nd Quarter Million EUR 2005 2004 Change in % Sales 422 456 (7) EBITDA 12 69 (83) EBIT before special items 7 34 (79) EBIT before special items in percent of sales 1.7 7.5 - EBIT (19) 33. Overview Fine Chemicals 1st Half Million EUR 2005 2004 Change in % Sales 817 914 (11) EBITDA 62 148 (58) EBIT before special items 27 80 (66) EBIT before special items in percent of sales 3.3 8.8 - EBIT 1 79 (99) The decline in sales was largely due to the fall in the price of lysine, the division's highest volume product. The weaker dollar also negatively impacted sales. We increased sales volumes, however (volumes 4%, portfolio -3%, prices -7%, currencies -1%). Higher sales were posted for organic acids for animal nutrition, fat-soluble vitamins, and aroma chemicals. Earnings fell primarily due to the decline in the margin for lysine. Special items were incurred for the restructuring of the vitamin C business. We expanded our pharma contract manufacturing business by acquiring the Swiss fine chemicals company Orgamol. Oil & Gas -- Sales growth due to significantly higher crude oil prices -- Higher oil and gas production -- Natural gas trading expanded further Overview Oil & Gas 2nd Quarter 1st Half Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 1,650 1,090 51 3,490 2,484 40 Thereof Exploration and production 862 584 48 1,555 1,111 40 Natural gas trading 788 506 56 1,935 1,373 41 EBITDA 686 443 55 1,276 872 46 Thereof Exploration and production 609 351 74 1,068 655 63 Natural gas trading 77 92 (16) 208 217 (4) EBIT before special items 579 339 71 1,063 682 56 Thereof Exploration and production 533 278 92 919 527 74 Natural gas trading 46 61 (25) 144 155 (7) EBIT before special items in percent of sales 35.1 31.1 - 30.5 27.5 - Exploration and production 61.8 47.6 - 59.1 47.4 - Natural gas trading 5.8 12.1 - 7.4 11.3 - EBIT 579 346 67 1,063 689 54 Thereof Exploration and production 533 285 87 919 534 72 Natural gas trading 46 61 (25) 144 155 (7) Sales (volumes 17%, prices/currencies 34%) and earnings increased significantly due to an average price for Brent crude of more than $50 in the second quarter and due to higher production volumes. In the exploration and production business sector, the increase in sales and earnings was primarily due to the fact that the average price of Brent crude was $16 (EUR 11) higher than in the same quarter of 2004. Oil production was increased in Germany and Libya, and gas production was raised in Libya and the Netherlands. We put the largest offshore gas field in Argentina into production off the coast of Tierra del Fuego, together with our consortium partners. In April, we signed a memorandum of understanding with our partner Gazprom to further strengthen our successful cooperation. Together, we aim to develop natural gas fields in western Siberia and jointly participate in the construction of a pipeline through the Baltic Sea. At the same time, Gazprom will increase its stake in the WIN-GAS joint venture. We significantly increased sales volumes in the natural gas trading business sector. Margins and earnings were below the previous year's level because the terms of supply contracts mean that sales prices could not be adjusted immediately to reflect higher prices. In May, BASF and its partners announced its plans to convert the Haidach gas reservoir in Austria into a gas storage facility. Regions -- Highest sales growth in North America and Asia -- Successful restructuring in North America -- Startup of Nanjing Verbund site in China Overview Regions Sales (location of Sales (location of company) customer) Million EUR Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % 2nd Quarter Europe 6,178 5,559 11 5,829 5,180 13 Thereof Germany 4,141 3,638 14 2,053 1,838 12 North America (NAFTA) 2,585 2,204 17 2,588 2,240 16 Asia Pacific 1,451 1,168 24 1,560 1,302 20 South America, Africa, Middle East 367 383 (4) 604 592 2 10,581 9,314 14 10,581 9,314 14 1st Half Europe 12,280 11,193 10 11,680 10,567 11 Thereof Germany 8,451 7,531 12 4,254 3,787 12 North America (NAFTA) 4,850 4,122 18 4,831 4,149 16 Asia Pacific 2,750 2,267 21 2,926 2,494 17 South America, Africa, Middle East 784 783 0 1,227 1,155 6 20,664 18,365 13 20,664 18,365 13 Overview Regions EBIT before special items Million EUR Change 2005 2004 in % 2nd Quarter Europe 1,199 938 28 Thereof Germany 772 651 19 North America (NAFTA) 351 213 65 Asia Pacific 95 71 34 South America, Africa, Middle East 12 44 (73) 1,657 1,266 31 1st Half Europe 2,333 1,850 26 Thereof Germany 1,514 1,305 16 North America (NAFTA) 622 303 105 Asia Pacific 182 166 10 South America, Africa, Middle East 83 122 (32) 3,220 2,441 32 Second-quarter sales by location of company in Europe increased 11%. EBIT before special items rose EUR 261 million to EUR 1,199 million. The Chemicals and Plastics segments posted higher sales and earnings due to higher margins and a reduction in fixed costs; the Oil & Gas segment benefited from higher oil prices. In North America, sales by location of company improved by 23% in dollar terms. EBIT before special items increased by EUR 138 million to EUR 351 million thanks to the contribution of all segments. The Agricultural Products division recorded the largest increase in earnings as a result of stronger demand for fungicides and reduced costs. We fully achieved cost savings of $250 million one year ahead of schedule by restructuring our service platform, sites and product portfolio in North America. Further cost-reduction measures will be defined by the end of this year. In Asia Pacific, companies increased sales in local currencies by 25%. EBIT before special items rose EUR 24 million to EUR 95 million. At our Verbund site in Nanjing, China, all production plants started operations successfully in June. This brings us an important step closer toward our goal of generating 20% of our sales and earnings in our chemical activities in Asia Pacific by 2010, with 70% coming from local production. In South America, Africa, Middle East, sales by location of company declined 9% in local currency terms. EBIT before special items declined by EUR 32 million to EUR 12 million. In the Agricultural Products division, sales and earnings were below the strong level in the same period of 2004. Demand for fungicides was significantly lower due to persistently dry weather. Earnings increased, however, in our chemical businesses. Consolidated Statements of Income Million EUR 2nd Quarter 1st Half Change Change 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Sales 10,581 9,314 13.6 20,664 18,365 12.5 Cost of sales 7,083 6,221 13.9 13,928 12,361 12.7 Gross profit on sales 3,498 3,093 13.1 6,736 6,004 12.2 Selling expenses 1,085 1,146 (5.3) 2,089 2,257 (7.4) General and administrative expenses 193 177 9.0 357 348 2.6 Research and development expenses 292 278 5.0 575 541 6.3 Other operating income 56 110 (49.1) 182 207 (12.1) Other operating expenses 397 352 12.8 811 740 9.6 Income from operations 1,587 1,250 27.0 3,086 2,325 32.7 (Expenses)/income from financial assets 42 45 (6.7) 113 58 94.8 Interest result (51) (72) 29.2 (91) (109) 16.5 Other financial results (73) 39 (59) 23. Financial result (82) 12 (37) (28) (32.1) Income before taxes and minority interests 1,505 1,262 19.3 3,049 2,297 32.7 Income taxes 697 514 35.6 1,319 997 32.3 Net income before minority interests 808 748 8.0 1,730 1,300 33.1 Minority interests 30 34 (11.8) 91 66 37.9 Net income 778 714 9.0 1,639 1,234 32.8 Earnings per share (EUR) 1.48 1.30 13.8 3.08 2.23 38.1 Number of shares, in million (weighted) 527 551 (4.4) 532 553 (3.8) The interim financial statements have not been audited. From January 1, 2005, the financial statements were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS); the previous year's figures have been restated. The transition in accounting and valuation methods and the reconciliation to IFRS for the 2004 figures are described on page 15 ff of the Interim Report for the first quarter of 2005. As of the second quarter of 2005, we record the current expenses or income from combined interest rate and currency swaps in the interest result rather than under other financial results. The previous year's figures have been restated to allow comparison. Consolidated Balance Sheets Assets June June Change Dec. Change Million EUR 30, 30, in % 31, in % 2005 2004 2004 Long-term assets Intangible assets 3,773 3,939 (4.2) 3,610 4.5 Property, plant and equipment 13,709 13,741 (0.2) 13,007 5.4 Investments accounted for using the equity method 1,168 1,682 (30.6) 1,092 7.0 Other financial assets 974 960 1.5 941 3.5 Deferred taxes 1,139 1,176 (3.1) 1,067 6.7 Other long-term assets 689 606 13.7 598 15.2 21,452 22,104 (2.9) 20,315 5.6 Short-term assets Inventories 5,331 4,361 22.2 4,645 14.8 Accounts receivable, trade 6,815 6,329 7.7 5,861 16.3 Other receivables and miscellaneous short-term assets 1,869 2,069 (9.7) 2,073 (9.8) Liquid funds 3,156 824 283.0 2,291 37.8 17,171 13,583 26.4 14,870 15.5 Total assets 38,623 35,687 8.2 35,185 9.8 Stockholders' equity and June June Change Dec. Change liabilities Million EUR 30, 30, in % 31, in % 2005 2004 2004 Stockholders' equity Subscribed capital 1,342 1,407 (4.6) 1,384 (3.0) Capital surplus 3,066 3,001 2.2 3,022 1.5 Retained earnings 12,018 11,847 1.4 12,154 (1.1) Other comprehensive income 416 110 278.2 (166). Minority interests 435 369 17.9 347 25.4 17,277 16,734 3.2 16,741 3.2 Long-term liabilities Provisions for pensions and similar obligations 3,926 3,949 (0.6) 3,866 1.6 Other provisions 2,463 2,349 4.9 2,385 3.3 Deferred taxes 972 681 42.7 817 19.0 Financial indebtedness 3,496 3,124 11.9 1,845 89.5 Other liabilities 1,014 1,034 (1.9) 1,043 (2.8) 11,871 11,137 6.6 9,956 19.2 Short-term liabilities Accounts payable, trade 2,369 2,502 (5.3) 2,372 (0.1) Provisions 2,759 2,440 13.1 2,508 10.0 Tax liabilities 1,078 836 28.9 644 67.4 Financial indebtedness 1,510 376 301.6 1,453 3.9 Other liabilities 1,759 1,662 5.8 1,511 16.4 9,475 7,816 21.2 8,488 11.6 Total stockholders' equity and liabilities 38,623 35,687 8.2 35,185 9.8 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Million EUR 1st Half 2005 2004 Net income 1,639 1,234 Depreciation and amortization of long-term assets 1,082 1,116 Changes in net working capital (573) (75) Miscellaneous items (67) (69) Cash provided by operating activities 2,081 2,206 Payments related to tangible and intangible fixed assets (875) (960) Acquisitions/divestitures (51) (66) Financial investments and other items 13 23 Cash used in investing activities (913) (1,003) Proceeds from capital increases/(decreases) (858) (340) Changes in financial indebtedness 1,494 26 Dividends (942) (805) Cash used in financing activities (306) (1,119) Net changes in cash and cash equivalents 862 84 Cash and cash equivalents as of beginning of year and other changes 2,126 540 Cash and cash equivalents 2,988 624 Marketable securities 168 200 Liquid funds 3,156 824 The previous year's figures were restated due to the transition to IFRS. There were no significant changes. Cash provided by operating activities declined by EUR 125 million, but remained high at EUR 2,081 million. Additional financing for net working capital was necessary due to the expansion of our business. Cash used in investing activities led to a cash outflow of EUR 913 million compared with EUR 1,003 million in the first half of 2004. At EUR 875 million, payments related to tangible and intangible fixed assets were below the previous year's level and were significantly lower than the level of depreciation and amortization on fixed assets. Acquisitions/divestitures refer in particular to the acquisition of the global electronic chemicals business from Merck, Germany, and the sale of the polystyrene business in North America. In cash used in financing activities, dividend payments and further share buybacks led to a cash outflow. In the first half of 2005, we bought back 16.4 million shares for EUR 867 million or an average of EUR 52.88 per share. Of this amount, EUR 0.6 billion was associated with the new EUR 1.5 billion buyback program. The emission of a euro benchmark bond resulted in a cash inflow of EUR 1.4 billion in the second quarter, which led to an increase in liquid funds as of June 30, 2005. Of this amount, EUR 1.25 billion was used to refinance the bond that matured in July 2005. Liquid funds increased by EUR 865 million since the end of 2004 to EUR 3,156 million, and at EUR 5,006 million, financial indebtedness was EUR 1,708 million higher than on December 31, 2004. Net debt therefore increased by EUR 843 million to EUR 1,850 million compared with the end of 2004. The equity ratio was 45%. Consolidated Statements of Equity January - June 2005 Number of Subscribed Million EUR subscribed capital shares outstanding As of January 1, 2005 540,440,410 1,384 Share buyback and cancellation of shares including own shares intended to be cancelled (16,402,229) (42) Capital injection by minority interests - - Dividends paid - - Net income - - Change in other comprehensive ncome* - Change in scope of consolidation and - - other changes As of June 30, 2005 524,038,181 1,342 January - June 2004 Number of Subscribed Million EUR subscribed capital shares outstanding As of January 1, 2004 556,643,410 1,425 Share buyback and cancellation of shares including own shares intended to be cancelled (7,170,000) (18) Capital injection by minority interests - - Dividends paid - - Net income - - Change in other comprehensive ncome* - - Change in scope of consolidation and - - other changes As of June 30, 2004 549,473,410 1,407 January - June 2005 Capital Retained Other Million EUR surplus earnings comprehensive income As of January 1, 2005 3,022 12,154 (166) Share buyback and cancellation of shares including own shares intended to be cancelled 44 (869) Capital injection by minority interests - - - Dividends paid - (904) - Net income - 1,639 - Change in other comprehensive - ncome* - 582 Change in scope of consolidation - - and other changes (2) As of June 30, 2005 3,066 12,018 416 January - June 2004 Capital Retained Other Million EUR surplus earnings comprehensive income As of January 1, 2004 2,983 11,673 28 Share buyback and cancellation of shares including own shares intended to be cancelled 18 (300) Capital injection by minority interests - - - Dividends paid - (774) - Net income - 1,234 - Change in other comprehensive - - ncome* 82 Change in scope of consolidation - - and other changes 14 As of June 30, 2004 3,001 11,847 110 January - June 2005 Minority Stockholders' Million EUR interests equity As of January 1, 2005 347 16,741 Share buyback and cancellation of shares including own shares intended to be cancelled (867) Capital injection by minority interests 10 10 Dividends paid (38) (942) Net income 91 1,730 Change in other comprehensive ncome* 23 605 Change in scope of consolidation and other changes 2 - As of June 30, 2005 435 17,277 January - June 2004 Minority Stockholders' Million EUR interests equity As of January 1, 2004 403 16,512 Share buyback and cancellation of shares including own shares intended to be cancelled (300) Capital injection by minority interests (41) (41) Dividends paid (31) (805) Net income 66 1,300 Change in other comprehensive ncome* (60) 22 Change in scope of consolidation and other changes 32 46 As of June 30, 2004 369 16,734 * Contains income-neutral changes in equity (in particular, translation adjustments) Segment Reporting Segments Sales EBITDA Million EUR 2nd Quarter 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Chemicals 2,007 1,748 14.8 477 459 3.9 Plastics 2,924 2,522 15.9 400 292 37.0 Performance Products 2,098 2,029 3.4 366 321 14.0 Agricultural Products & Nutrition 1,465 1,527 (4.1) 363 375 (3.2) Agricultural Products 1,043 1,071 (2.6) 351 306 14.7 Fine Chemicals 422 456 (7.5) 12 69 (82.6) Oil & Gas 1,650 1,090 51.4 686 443 54.9 Other* 437 398 9.8 (143) (75) (90.7) 10,581 9,314 13.6 2,149 1,25 18.4 2nd Quarter Research and Assets** development expenses Chemicals 28 25 12.0 6,026 5,373 12.2 Plastics 35 33 6.1 6,591 6,216 6.0 Performance Products 47 55 (14.5) 4,938 5,090 (3.0) Agricultural Products & Nutrition 92 85 8.2 6,866 7,116 (3.5) Agricultural Products 75 63 19.0 5,540 5,693 (2.7) Fine Chemicals 17 22 (22.7) 1,326 1,423 (6.8) Oil & Gas 36 37 (2.7) 4,210 3,726 13.0 Other* 54 43 25.6 9,992 8,166 22.4 292 278 5.0 38,623 35,687 8.2 Segments Income from operations Income from Million EUR before special items operations (EBIT) 2nd Quarter 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Chemicals 415 340 22.1 345 335 3.0 Plastics 274 180 52.2 280 171 63.7 Performance Products 272 233 16.7 282 230 22.6 Agricultural Products & Nutrition 302 273 10.6 272 268 1.5 Agricultural Products 295 239 23.4 291 235 23.8 Fine Chemicals 7 34 (79.4) (19) 33. Oil & Gas 579 339 70.8 579 346 67.3 Other* (185) (99) (86.9) (171) (100) (71.0) 1,657 1,266 30.9 1,587 1,250 27.0 2nd Quarter Additions to fixed Amortization and assets*** depreciation*** Chemicals 369 143 158.0 132 124 6.5 Plastics 120 110 9.1 120 121 (0.8) Performance Products 134 68 97.1 84 91 (7.7) Agricultural Products & Nutrition 33 56 (41.1) 91 107 (15.0) Agricultural Products 14 17 (17.6) 60 71 (15.5) Fine Chemicals 19 39 (51.3) 31 36 (13.9) Oil & Gas 156 58 169.0 107 97 10.3 Other* 38 31 22.6 28 25 12.0 850 466 82.4 562 565 (0.5) Segments Sales EBITDA Million EUR 1st Half 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Chemicals 3,829 3,330 15.0 1,021 813 25.6 Plastics 5,724 4,829 18.5 780 566 37.8 Performance Products 4,006 3,958 1.2 670 615 8.9 Agricultural Products & Nutrition 2,819 2,968 (5.0) 745 756 (1.5) Agricultural Products 2,002 2,054 (2.5) 683 608 12.3 Fine Chemicals 817 914 (10.6) 62 148 (58.1) Oil & Gas 3,490 2,484 40.5 1,276 872 46.3 Other* 796 796 0.0 (324) (193) (67.9) 20,664 18,365 12.5 4,168 3,429 21.6 1st Half Research and Assets** development expenses Chemicals 55 52 5.8 6,026 5,373 12.2 Plastics 69 64 7.8 6,591 6,216 6.0 Performance Products 97 110 (11.8) 4,938 5,090 (3.0) Agricultural Products & Nutrition 178 167 6.6 6,866 7,116 (3.5) Agricultural Products 143 124 15.3 5,540 5,693 (2.7) Fine Chemicals 35 43 (18.6) 1,326 1,423 (6.8) Oil & Gas 70 62 12.9 4,210 3,726 13.0 Other* 106 86 23.3 9,992 8,166 22.4 575 541 6.3 38,623 35,687 8,62 Segments Income from Income from operations Million EUR operations before (EBIT) special items 1st Half 2005 2004 in % 2005 2004 in % Chemicals 841 591 42.3 771 569 35.5 Plastics 543 335 62.1 548 325 68.6 Performance Products 497 443 12.2 506 433 16.9 Agricultural Products & Nutrition 598 573 4.4 576 548 5.1 Agricultural Products 571 493 15.8 575 469 22.6 Fine Chemicals 27 80 (66.3) 1 79 (98.7) Oil & Gas 1,063 682 55.9 1,063 689 54.3 Other* (322) (183) (76.0) (378) (239) (58.2) 3,220 2,441 31.9 3,086 2,325 32.7 1st Half Additions to fixed Amortization and assets*** depreciation*** Chemicals 457 318 43.7 250 244 2.5 Plastics 202 212 (4.7) 232 241 (3.7) Performance Products 188 134 40.3 164 182 (9.9) Agricultural Products & Nutrition 64 111 (42.3) 169 208 (18.8) Agricultural Products 26 36 (27.8) 108 139 (22.3) Fine Chemicals 38 75 (49.3) 61 69 (11.6) Oil & Gas 250 144 73.6 213 183 16.4 Other* 51 65 (21.5) 54 46 17.4 1,212 984 23.2 1,082 1,104 (2.0) * "Other" includes the fertilizers business and other businesses as well as expenses, income and assets not allocated to the segments. This item also includes foreign currency results from financial indebtedness that are not allocated to the segments as well as from currency positions that are macro-hedged (EUR (94) million in the second quarter (previous year EUR 12 million) and EUR (139) million in the first half (previous year EUR (2) million)). ** The assets of "Other" includes the assets of the fertilizers business and other businesses as well as assets that are not allocated to the segments (financial assets, liquid funds, financial receivables, deferred taxes; 2nd quarter 2005: EUR 8,221 million, 2nd quarter 2004: EUR 6,590 million). *** Tangible and intangible fixed assets Forward-looking statements This report contains forward-looking statements under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of BASF management and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of BASF to be materially different from those that may be expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include those discussed in BASF's Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. (The Annual Report on Form 20-F is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.) We do not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements contained in this report. Important Dates -- November 2, 2005 Interim Report Third Quarter 2005 -- February 22, 2006 Financial Results 2005 -- May 4, 2006 Annual Meeting, Mannheim Interim Report First Quarter 2006 -- August 2, 2006 Interim Report Second Quarter 2006 Corporate Media Relations: Michael Grabicki Phone: +49 621 60-99938 Fax: +49 621 60-92693 E-mail: michael.grabicki@basf-ag.de Investor Relations: Magdalena Moll Phone: +49 621 60-48230 Fax: +49 621 60-22500 E-mail: investorrelations@basf-ag.de General inquiries: Phone: +49 621 60-0 Fax: +49 621 60-42525 E-mail: info.service@basf-ag.de Internet: www.basf.com BASF Aktiengesellschaft 67056 Ludwigshafen Germany Publisher: BASF Aktiengesellschaft Communications BASF Group 67056 Ludwigshafen Germany You can find HTML versions of this and other publications from BASF on our homepage at www.basf.com. You can also order reports: -- by telephone: +49 621 60-91827 -- by fax: +49 621 60-20162 -- by e-mail: medien-service@basf-ag.de -- on the Internet: www.basf.de/mediaorders CONTACT: BASF Corporate Media Relations: Michael Grabicki, +49 621 60 99938 Fax: +49 621 60 92693 michael.grabicki@basf-ag.de or Investor Relations: Magdalena Moll, +49 621 60 48230 Fax: +49 621 60 22500 investorrelations@basf-ag.de or General inquiries: Phone: +49 621 60 0 Fax: +49 621 60 42525 info.service@basf-ag.de www.basf.com SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Current Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. BASF Aktiengesellschaft Date: August 3, 2005 By: /s/ Elisabeth Schick ------------------------------------ Name: Elisabeth Schick Title: Director Site Communications Ludwigshafen and Europe By: /s/ Christian Schubert ------------------------------------ Name: Christian Schubert Title: Director Corporate Communications BASF Group