Cabot's Rubber Carbon Black Sales Decline While Profits Continue to Grow

　　According to a report from the European Rubber Journal, Cabot Corporation's performance in the rubber carbon black sector has seen a decrease in sales volume, but profits are still on the rise.

　　Cabot Corporation, as per its performance report, has experienced a decline in the sales volume of rubber carbon black. However, despite this drop in sales, the company continues to witness growth in profits.

　　The report highlights that, as of the end of September, which marks the conclusion of the fiscal year's third quarter, Cabot Corporation's rubber carbon black segment achieved an Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) of $134 million (approximately ¥956 million), reflecting a notable 23% increase compared to the same period last year.

　　Cabot attributes this robust profit growth to higher prices negotiated with customers during supply agreements for the 2023 calendar year, along with an improved product portfolio, contributing to enhanced profit margins.

　　While sales in the Americas and the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) regions experienced a 7% decline, growth in rubber carbon black sales in Asia, driven by China, offset some of the overall decrease in sales during this fiscal quarter.

　　For the entire 2023 fiscal year, the revenue generated by Cabot's rubber carbon black business segment reached $482 million (approximately ¥3.43 billion), marking an 18% increase compared to the previous fiscal year. However, the sales volume showed a 4% year-on-year decrease, amounting to $2.5 billion (approximately ¥17.8 billion).

　　Looking ahead, Cabot Corporation's President and CEO, Mr. Sean Keohane, anticipates a "low-single-digit growth" in business volume for the 2024 fiscal year. Agreements for 2024 are expected to involve higher pricing and an improved product portfolio. Despite challenges, Cabot remains confident in the prospects for its rubber carbon black business, citing favorable long-term demand drivers and a continuously growing demand for innovation.

　　In summary, Cabot Corporation's performance report indicates a decline in rubber carbon black sales volume, countered by increased profits attributed to strategic pricing and product portfolio improvements.