The US chemical company, The Dow Chemical Company (Midland) is interested in taking over the petrochemical plants of Buna, Böhlen and Leuna. According to the German Federal Economics Minister, Günther Rexrodt, not only Dow which has already announced initiation of takeover negotiations with the Treuhand, but a number of other very solid international companies are seriously considering investing know-how and financial resources in the chemical plant at Buna/Böhlen. In addition discussions are continuing with the Russian Gazprom about co-operation in ethylene production.

The Dow declaration of intent addresses the steam cracker at the Sächsische Olefinwerke GmbH (D-04561 Böhlen), the electro-chemical production plant and derivatives at Buna GmbH (D-06258 Schkopau) as well as polyolefine production at Leuna-Werke AG (D-06236 Leuna) and Buna GmbH. According to the Chairman of the Board of Dow Germany and Vice President of Dow Europe, Elmar Deutsch, these plants have the long-term potential to strengthen the production basis and contribute to the future growth of Germany and the neighbouring countries. Dow has the necessary technology for the production facilities in question – the declaration of intent assumes a majority holding in the facilities in Buna, Böhlen and Leuna. The parties anticipate being able to finalise and sign the agreement by the end of the year.