BASF shut down its citral plant in Ludwigshafen, Germany on March 12 due to a fire caused by a technical equipment failure. The company also declared Force Majeure on citral-based aroma chemicals, as well as vitamin A and vitamin E products for human and animal nutrition. Based on current best technical estimation, the Force Majeure event will lead to a shutdown period of four weeks from now. The resulting effects of the Force Majeure for customers are currently under evaluation and BASF is implementing measures to limit the consequences of the situation. The Force Majeure situation is not related to any product safety or quality issues.
BASF will keep customers up-to-date about developing details regarding its supply capability with the affected products. BASF will supply customers on a pro-rata basis with products available in stock.