DuPont Chair and CEO: Local Collaborations Key to Business Opportunities in Africa

Science and Technology Can Address Unique Needs of African Continent

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Jun 28, 2010, 09:30 ET

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, June 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Conducting business in Sub-Saharan Africa requires a unique set of skills and approach with the willingness to collaborate, DuPont (NYSE: DD) Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman said at the end of a week of meetings with customers, business partners, and local business experts.

"Collaborations are important in Africa," said Kullman. "You have to engage with the local markets and be fully prepared and informed."

As part of her trip to South Africa, Kullman participated as a panelist at Fortune magazine's Global Forum, "The New Global Opportunity," held in Cape Town.

There is tremendous opportunity to address the needs of the African continent with innovation from DuPont, Kullman said, specifically in agriculture, oil and gas resources, road and power infrastructure.

"For us to put that science to work here – to fully meet customer needs – requires local relationships with people who are experienced in the market," Kullman said.

For example, the DuPont agricultural seed business Pioneer Hi-Bred has partnered with African farmers and invested in Africa for 50 years. Today the business, led by Africans, is helping farmers increase productivity and profitability by not only helping them select the best seed for their land, but providing advice on farming practices.

"There is significant opportunity to increase crop yields in Africa through improved farming practices and access to advanced plant genetics," said Kullman. "Innovation from better products and practices delivered through open markets is the best way to improve farming in Africa and around the world."

DuPont (www.dupont.com) is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 90 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

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