BEIJING -- According to China-based CCID Consulting Ltd., handset production in China is expected to reach 605 million units in 2008, 10% ahead of the 2007. Over 30% of the production is slated for domestic use.

Exports will account for about 65% of the handsets produced. Market leaders, Nokia, Samsung Electronics, Motorola, Sony Ericsson and LG Electronics make up only 65% of the total production this year, down from the near 80% reported in previous years.

Announcing the new business, Cullen commented, “Each of MacDermid’s divisions provides chemical processes to the solar energy industry. From wafer cleaning, and conductor metallization to screen-printing and anti-reflective technologies, MacDermid already has a strong presence in the photovoltaics industry. As the industry evolves into more efficient cells, there is a demand for new metallization and imaging techniques. These are MacDermid’s core competencies. Use of our chemical processes allow PV manufacturers an elegant path to significant reductions in $/watt.”