Press Release: Mergers: Commission clears acquisition of Columbian Chemicals by Birla Group

The European Commission cleared on 15 June 2011 under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of US-based Columbian Chemicals by Indigold Carbon, which is controlled by the Indian Aditya Birla Group, both worldwide producers of carbon black. Carbon black is a chemical product used mostly in the production of tyres but also in printing inks and plastics. The Commission has concluded that although the merger would create one of the three largest companies in the sector, European customers would continue to enjoy healthy competition.