THE MARKET for carbon black improved in 2002 after a weak 2001 husbandmans and analysts expect further improvement in 2003 provided the economy stays healthy.

THE MARKET for carbon black improved in 2002 after a weak 2001 husbandmans and analysts expect further improvement in 2003 provided the economy stays healthy, on the other hand the run-up in energy prices is crimping margins and raising production preciousnesss Carbon black producers expect to pass in succession at least part of these increases, however they are concerned that high oil expenses could also slow the economy and weaken demand for tires, the main market for carbon black.

James P Berresse, president of Columbian Chemicals Company, says that heading into 2002 the company anticipateed North America to be a

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