More and more foreign companies have entered China's coal chemical industry, including US chemical giant Dow Chemical, world energy giant Royal Dutch Shell and Thailand's Chia Tai Group.

Chen said the quick development of China's coal chemical industry is beneficial for Sasol. "China has abundant coal reserves. The proprietary and proven Fischer-Tropsch technology offers China a compelling and competitive way to meet its future energy requirements in an efficient, reliable and sustainable manner."

"Sasol's effort is facilitating China on its road to energy safety and diversification. Meanwhile, Sasol's endeavor is a proof of China-Africa's two-way cooperation," he said.

"Establishment of the two plants in the western hinterland will result in thousands of new jobs and spin off economic development outside of China's existing high-growth regions," he added.

                                                                     (China Daily 01/30/2007 page14)

1

2

3

(For more biz stories, please visit Industry Updates)