Clariant enjoys a good start to 2016; reveals new tailored strategy for Greater China.

For the first quarter of 2016, Swiss speciality chemicals major Clariant International reported sales from continuing operations of CHF1.478 billion (c. €1.36 billion), up 1% compared to sales of CHF1.465 billion in 1Q 2015. However, this corresponds to sales growth of 3% in local currencies, driven by higher volumes. EBITDA before exceptional items from continuing operations reached CHF229 million in 1Q 2016, up 16% in local currencies year on year. The EBITDA margin before exceptionals increased to 15.5%, well above the previous year's level of 14.1%, Clariant reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]