Switzerland-based Ciba Specialty Chemicals has reported a 9% rise in sales during the first half of 2006 totalling CHF3.285 billion ($2.677 billion) compared with CHF3.003 billion in 2005. Sales reflected the recent trend of stronger demand at roughly stable sales prices.

First-half volumes increased 6% compared with the corresponding period last year with contributions across almost all businesses. Currency movements had a smaller albeit positive effect compared with the first half of 2005.

Regionally, in local currencies, sales in Asia-Pacific rose 11%, with China 17% higher and India 15% higher than a year ago. Sales in Europe rose 5%, with above-average increases in Southern and Eastern Europe. Sales in the Americas rose by 2%, with NAFTA sales 3% higher.

The company divested its Textile Effects business on June 30. As anticipated, the company incurred a loss of CHF224 million on disposal, less than the CHF250 million earlier estimated, which was booked at the closing of the transaction in the second quarter. The remaining expected costs of around CHF26 million will be booked in the second half of 2006 and in 2007.

Textile Effects achieved sales of CHF664 million for the first half, 3% above last year, with a resulting profit of CHF33 million, in line with expectations.