French specialty chemicals company Rhodia has reported first quarter results in line with expectations.

Net sales increased 9.4% to €1,354 million, compared with a particularly strong first quarter 2005. This increase resulted from a 2% growth in volumes, a 2% rise in prices as well as a 7% positive currency effect due to the appreciation of the dollar and the Brazilian real against the euro.

Operating profit rose to €81 million from €75 million in the first quarter 2005.

Net income from continuing operations reached €9 million, from a €57 million loss in the first quarter 2005