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LETTERHEAD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   Media Contact:   Finance Contact:
November 10, 2003   Don Olsen   Kimo Esplin
    (703) 741-5885   (801) 584-5700


HUNTSMAN RELEASES THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

EARNINGS STABILIZE AS COMPANY ANNOUNCES
$200 MILLION COST REDUCTION PROGRAM


HUNTSMAN LLC AND HUNTSMAN INTERNATIONAL
TAKE MEASURES TO STRENGTHEN LIQUIDITY

        Houston, TX—The combined Huntsman companies today reported third quarter 2003 EBITDA of $170.0 million, which includes $10.7 million in restructuring charges and losses on the sale of accounts receivable. This compares to second quarter 2003 pro forma EBITDA of $136.3 million and third quarter 2002 pro forma EBITDA of $210.5 million, which included $53.7 million and $16.0 million, respectively, of restructuring charges and losses on the sale of accounts receivable.

        The combined Huntsman companies include HMP Equity Holdings Corporation ("HMP"), and its operating subsidiaries Huntsman LLC, Huntsman International Holdings LLC ("Huntsman International" or "HIH") and Huntsman Advanced Materials LLC ("Advanced Materials" or "HAM").

        Peter R. Huntsman, President and CEO, stated, "We are pleased that EBITDA at the Huntsman companies stabilized in the third quarter relative to second quarter at a time when earnings in our industry generally have been soft. We believe this reflects the strength of our differentiated product portfolio and our vigilance in managing costs as the chemical industry remains in the trough of the cycle."

        Mr. Huntsman also said the Huntsman companies have commenced an initiative to reduce fixed costs by a minimum of $200 million over the next eighteen months. He further stated the current conditions in the chemical industry present the Huntsman companies with "an opportunity to reposition our businesses at the bottom of the cycle to ensure their long-term competitiveness and profitability." Each of the six Huntsman business segments, Polyurethanes, Advanced Materials, Performance Products, Pigments, Base Chemicals and Polymers, has developed cost reduction plans to meet the overall minimum $200 million goal. The Company also plans to reduce costs by increasing the use of shared services across its businesses. The Company expects to make additional announcements of site consolidations and headcount reductions in the near future.

        The Huntsman companies completed a $380 million offering of senior secured notes at Huntsman LLC in the third quarter and raised $205 million of additional Term B and Term C loans at Huntsman International in October. Proceeds from these transactions have allowed Huntsman to make significant pre-payments of term debt maturities and significant payments under the revolving credit facilities of both companies, freeing up substantial amounts of liquidity as trough conditions persist in the industry.


Huntsman Companies Abbreviated Organization Chart

         LOGO

HMP Equity Holdings Corporation Quarterly Results
Three Months Ended September 30, 2003

 
  Huntsman LLC (Excl. HIH)(1)
  Huntsman International
Holdings

  Huntsman Advanced
Materials

  HMP/
Other

  Eliminations
  HMP Consolidated
 
 
  In Millions

 
Revenues   $ 828.9   $ 1,275.7   $ 257.8   $   $ (61.2 ) $ 2,301.2  
Gross profit     53.6     146.5     58.4     (2.9 )   (3.4 )   252.2  
SG&A/Other expenses     36.4     100.4     52.9     0.7         190.4  
Restructuring expenses         4.8                 4.8  
Operating income (loss)     17.2     41.3     5.5     (3.6 )   (3.4 )   57.0  

Net loss

 

 

(24.7

)

 

(46.6

)

 

(4.9

)

 

(8.1

)

 

(4.3

)

 

(88.6

)
Interest expense—net     34.7     88.4     10.3     5.0     0.9     139.3  
Income tax expense (benefit)     7.4     (5.3 )       0.1         2.2  
Depreciation and amortization     32.3     67.7     10.8     2.9     3.4     117.1  
EBITDA(2)(3)   $ 49.7   $ 104.2   $ 16.2   $ (0.1 ) $   $ 170.0  

(1)
Excludes the results of Huntsman International which was 60% owned and accounted for on the equity method through April 30, 2003 and fully consolidated begining May 1, 2003. Huntsman International is separately financed from Huntsman LLC, its debt is non-recourse to Huntsman LLC and Huntsman LLC is not obligated to make cash contributions to, or investments in Huntsman International. Therefore, the results of Huntsman LLC are presented here exclusive of the results of Huntsman International to provide more meaningful information with respect to Huntsman LLC.

(2)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

2


(3)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Huntsman LLC (Excl. HIH)
  Huntsman International
Holdings

  Huntsman Advanced
Materials

  HMP/Other
  Eliminations
  HMP Consolidated
 
Foreign exchange gains (losses)- unallocated   $ (0.9 ) $ 8.7   $ 2.3   $   $   $ 10.1  
Purchase acctg. adj.—inventory valuation             (1.0 )           (1.0 )
Loss on sale of accounts receivable         (5.9 )               (5.9 )
Restructuring expenses         (4.8 )               (4.8 )

        As a result of HMP's acquisition of the 39% minority interest in Huntsman International on May 9, 2003 (HMP now directly and indirectly owns 100% of Huntsman International), HMP's financial results include the consolidated results of Huntsman International for the periods from May 2003. In prior periods, the combined Huntsman companies' results included their share of the equity income from Huntsman International. HMP's financial results also include the consolidated results of Huntsman Chemical Company Australia ("HCCA") from October 2002 forward and the equity income from HCCA for all prior periods. On June 30, 2003, HMP and its parent company, Huntsman Holdings LLC, completed the acquisition of Vantico Group S.A. ("Vantico"). Advanced Materials was formed to hold the Vantico business. As a result of the Vantico acquisition, HMP's financial results include the results of Vantico from July 2003. The following pro forma information is provided to show HMP financial results as if Huntsman International, HCCA and Advanced Materials were consolidated for all periods presented and Huntsman LLC financial results as if HCCA was consolidated for all periods presented.

Huntsman Financial Summary (Pro forma)(1)

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
  In Millions

HMP Consolidated:                        
  Revenues   $ 2,301.2   $ 2,112.6   $ 6,882.0   $ 5,984.6
  EBITDA(2)     170.0     210.5     426.8     604.4

Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)(3):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Revenues     828.9     730.5     2,431.5     2,068.5
  EBITDA(2)     49.7     70.0     129.1     200.3

Huntsman International:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Revenues     1,275.7     1,195.2     3,880.8     3,368.1
  EBITDA(2)     104.2     131.0     276.3     363.3

Huntsman Advanced Materials:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Revenues     257.8     241.2     789.5     714.9
  EBITDA(2)(4)     16.2     6.5     19.6     33.1

(1)
Results for the three months ended September 30, 2002 and the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively, are presented on a pro forma basis as if Huntsman International, HCCA and Advanced Materials were consolidated for all such periods.

3


(2)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

(3)
Excludes the results of Huntsman International which was 60% owned and accounted for on the equity method through April 30, 2003 and fully consolidated beginning May 1, 2003. Huntsman International is separately financed from Huntsman LLC, its debt is non-recourse to Huntsman LLC and Huntsman LLC is not obligated to make cash contributions to, or investments in Huntsman International. Therefore, the results of Huntsman LLC are presented here exclusive of the results of Huntsman International to provide more meaningful information with respect to Huntsman LLC.

(4)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains (losses)—unallocated                          
  Huntsman International   $ 8.7   $ 4.1   $ 25.3   $ 29.0  
  Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)     (0.9 )   (1.0 )   7.0     (0.4 )
  Huntsman Advanced Materials     2.3     (1.5 )   2.2     (7.7 )
Loss on sale of accounts receivable                          
  Huntsman International     (5.9 )   (4.2 )   (24.0 )   (4.3 )
Contract termination costs—net                          
  Huntsman Advanced Materials                 (0.8 )      
Asset write-down                          
  Huntsman International                 (2.8 )      
Purchase acctg. adj.—inventory valuation                          
  Huntsman Advanced Materials     (1.0 )         (1.0 )      
Restructuring expenses                          
  Huntsman International     (4.8 )   (1.1 )   (43.4 )   (1.1 )
  Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)           3.7     (0.9 )   3.7  
Reorganization expenses                          
  Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)           (8.5 )         (15.5 )
  Huntsman Advanced Materials           (5.9 )   (28.0 )   (7.6 )

4


HMP Equity Holdings Corporation

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

 
 
  In Millions

 
Revenues   $ 2,301.2   $ 691.8   $ 4,710.1   $ 1,964.6  
Gross profit     252.2     72.5     454.7     201.5  
SG&A / Other expenses     190.4     47.8     337.7     126.2  
Restructuring expenses (credits)     4.8     (3.7 )   27.2     (3.7 )
Operating income     57.0     28.4     89.8     79.0  
Net income (loss)     (88.6 )   (59.9 )   (231.2 )   28.3  
Interest expense—net     139.3     68.6     261.4     171.0  
Income tax expense (benefit)     2.2     7.2     (4.0 )   7.2  
Depreciation and amortization     117.1     38.1     227.8     113.9  
Cumulative effect of accounting change                 (169.7 )
EBITDA(1) (3)   $ 170.0   $ 54.0   $ 254.0   $ 150.7  
  Pro forma EBITDA(2)   $ 170.0   $ 210.5   $ 426.8   $ 604.4  

(1)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization

(2)
See pro forma reconciliation on succeeding page.

(3)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains (losses)- unallocated   $ 10.1   $ 1.1   $ 28.2   $ 0.4  
Loss on sale of accounts receivable     (5.9 )         (12.3 )      
Contract termination costs—net                 (0.8 )      
Purchase acctg. adj.—inventory valuation     (1.0 )         (1.0 )      
Restructuring expenses     (4.8 )   3.7     (27.2 )   3.7  
Reorganization expenses           (8.5 )         (15.5 )

5


HMP Equity Holdings Corporation Pro Forma EBITDA

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

 
  In Millions

HMP EBITDA(1)   $ 170.0   $ 54.0   $ 254.0   $ 150.7

Pro forma adjustments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  HIH EBITDA(2)         131.0     113.2     363.3
  HAM EBITDA(3)         6.5     3.4     33.1
  HCCA EBITDA(4)         2.9         6.6
  Equity (income) loss adjustment(5)         (1.3 )   52.5     14.2
  Minority interest—LLC(6)         14.4         28.8
  Minority interest—HAM(7)         3.0     3.7     7.7
   
 
 
 
HMP pro forma EBITDA(9)   $ 170.0   $ 210.5   $ 426.8   $ 604.4
   
 
 
 
HIH   $ 104.2   $ 131.0   $ 276.3   $ 363.3
Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)(8)     49.7     70.0     129.1     200.3
HAM     16.2     6.5     19.6     33.1
HMP (parent only)     (0.1 )   3.0     1.8     7.7
   
 
 
 
HMP pro forma EBITDA(9)   $ 170.0   $ 210.5   $ 426.8   $ 604.4
   
 
 
 

(1)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

(2)
To reflect the EBITDA of Huntsman International for all periods prior to May 2003.

(3)
To reflect the EBITDA of HAM for all periods prior to July 2003.

(4)
To reflect the EBITDA of HCCA for periods prior to October 2002.

(5)
To eliminate the equity income (loss) of Huntsman International for periods prior to May 2003 and of HCCA for periods prior to October 2002.

(6)
To eliminate prior period minority interest.

(7)
To reflect 12% minioity interest on a comparative basis.

(8)
Excludes the results of Huntsman International which was 60% owned and accounted for on the equity method through April 30, 2003 and fully consolidated beginning May 1, 2003. Huntsman International is separately financed from Huntsman LLC, their debt is non-recourse to Huntsman LLC and Huntsman LLC is not obligated to make cash contributions to, or investments in Huntsman International. Therefore, the results of Huntsman LLC are presented here exclusive of the results of Huntsman International to provide more meaningful information with respect to Huntsman LLC.

6


(9)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains (losses)—unallocated                          
  Huntsman International   $ 8.7   $ 4.1   $ 25.3   $ 29.0  
  Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)     (0.9 )   (1.0 )   7.0     (0.4 )
  Huntsman Advanced Materials     2.3     (1.5 )   2.2     (7.7 )
Loss on sale of accounts receivable                          
  Huntsman International     (5.9 )   (4.2 )   (24.0 )   (4.3 )
Contract termination costs—net                          
  Huntsman Advanced Materials                 (0.8 )      
Asset write-down                          
  Huntsman International                 (2.8 )      
Purchase acctg. adj.—inventory valuation                          
  Huntsman Advanced Materials     (1.0 )         (1.0 )      
Restructuring expenses                          
  Huntsman International     (4.8 )   (1.1 )   (43.4 )   (1.1 )
  Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)           3.7     (0.9 )   3.7  
Reorganization expenses                          
  Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)           (8.5 )         (15.5 )
  Huntsman Advanced Materials           (5.9 )   (28.0 )   (7.6 )

7


HMP Equity Holdings Corporation

Pro forma Operating Results

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002(1)

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003(1)

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002(1)

 
 
  In Millions

 
Segment Sales:                          
  Polyurethanes   $ 597.4   $ 545.6   $ 1,718.1   $ 1,557.0  
  Advanced Materials     257.8     241.2     789.5     714.9  
  Performance Products     440.5     390.0     1,267.0     1,140.8  
  Polymers     289.3     247.6     847.6     709.0  
  Pigments     251.0     232.5     752.5     669.2  
  Base Chemicals     620.4     576.5     1,954.2     1,535.6  
  Eliminations     (155.2 )   (120.8 )   (446.9 )   (341.9 )
   
 
 
 
 
    Total   $ 2,301.2   $ 2,112.6   $ 6,882.0   $ 5,984.6  
   
 
 
 
 
Segment EBITDA:                          
  Polyurethanes   $ 80.5   $ 93.8   $ 168.6   $ 292.1  
  Advanced Materials     16.2     6.5     19.6     33.1  
  Performance Products     41.7     55.3     90.4     154.2  
  Polymers     17.6     24.8     54.0     61.1  
  Pigments     27.7     21.1     87.4     45.2  
  Base Chemicals     4.8     33.6     57.8     56.8  
  Unallocated and other     (18.5 )   (24.6 )   (51.0 )   (38.1 )
   
 
 
 
 
    Total(2)(3)   $ 170.0   $ 210.5   $ 426.8   $ 604.4  
   
 
 
 
 

(1)
Results for the three months ended September 30, 2002 and the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively, are presented on a pro forma basis as if Huntsman International, HCCA and Advanced Materials were consolidated for all such periods.

(2)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

8


(3)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains—unallocated   $ 10.1   $ 1.6   $ 34.5   $ 20.9  
Loss on sale of accounts receivable     (5.9 )   (4.2 )   (24.0 )   (4.3 )
Contract termination costs—net                 (0.8 )      
Asset write-down                 (2.8 )      
Purchase acctg. adj.—inventory valuation     (1.0 )         (1.0 )      
Reorganization expenses           (14.4 )   (28.0 )   (23.1 )
Restructuring expenses:                          
  Polyurethanes     (3.7 )         (22.2 )      
  Performance Products           (1.1 )   (20.1 )   (1.1 )
  Polymers           3.7     (0.9 )   3.7  
  Pigments     (1.1 )         (1.1 )      
   
 
 
 
 
Total restructuring expenses   $ (4.8 ) $ 2.6   $ (44.3 ) $ 2.6  

Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 (Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2002 Pro Forma)

        For the three months ended September 30, 2003, HMP had EBITDA of $170.0 million, which includes $10.7 million in restructuring charges and losses on the sale of accounts receivable. This compares to second quarter 2003 pro forma EBITDA of $136.3 million and third quarter 2002 pro forma EBITDA of $210.5 million, which included $53.7 million and $16.0 million, respectively, of restructuring charges and losses on the sale of accounts receivable.

        Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2003 increased to $2,301.2 million, or 9%, from $2,112.6 million during the same period in 2002. The increase in revenue was due to an increase of revenues in all segments.

        EBITDA for the three months ended September 30, 2003 decreased to $170.0 million, or 19%, from $210.5 million during the same period in 2002. The decrease in EBITDA was due to a decrease in EBITDA in the Polyurethanes, Performance Products, Polymers and Base Chemicals segments, partially offset by increases in EBITDA in the Advanced Materials and Pigments segments.

Polyurethanes

        The increase in revenues in the Polyurethanes segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices principally due to the strength of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, offset in part by lower volumes resulting largely from a reduction in spot sales to co-producers in the 2003 period.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Polyurethane segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices, and the incurrence in the third quarter of a $3.7 million restructuring charge taken in connection with cost reduction efforts at our Rozenburg, Netherlands facility.

Advanced Materials

        The increase in revenues in the Advanced Materials segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices, principally due to the strength of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, and a 1% volume increase.

9



        The increase in EBITDA in the Advanced Materials segment was the result of increased revenue, a reduction of SG&A costs primarily due to a reduction in restructuring charges, and reduced costs as a result of cost reduction initiatives.

Performance Products

        The increase in revenues in the Performance Products segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices in North America in response to higher raw material costs, strong volume gains in our linear alkylbenzene, ethyleneamines, ethanolamines and ethylene glycol product lines and higher average selling prices in Europe due to the strengthening of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, partially offset by lower volumes in Europe due to softer European demand and decreased European export business as a result of the strength of the major European currencies.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Performance Products segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs.

Pigments

        The increase in revenues in the Pigments segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices, the majority of which resulted from the strengthening of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, which more than offset a 1% volume decline.

        The increase in EBITDA in the Pigments segment was primarily the result of improved margins due to a more favorable industry supply-demand balance in the most recent quarter.

Polymers

        The increase in revenues in the Polymers segment was primarily the result of higher volumes and higher average selling prices as industry demand strengthened and prices increased in response to higher raw material costs.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Polymers segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices.

Base Chemicals

        The increase in revenues in the Base Chemicals segment was primarily the result of higher volumes in the U.S. as U.S. demand strengthened, and higher average selling prices in the U.S. and Europe in response to higher raw material costs.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Base Chemicals segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices.

Unallocated Items

        Unallocated items include unallocated corporate overhead, foreign exchange gains and losses and restructuring and reorganization costs. For the three months ended September 30, 2003, expenses from unallocated items decreased by $6.1 million to $18.5 million from $24.6 million for the same period in 2002. The decrease was primarily due to a reduction of restructuring and reorganization expenses versus the same period in 2002, partially offset by higher unallocated foreign exchange gains in the current period.

10



Huntsman LLC (Excluding HIH)(1)

Pro Forma Operating Results

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
 
  In Millions

 
Segment Sales                          
  Performance Products   $ 291.7   $ 267.4   $ 843.0   $ 769.0  
  Polymers     289.3     247.6     847.7     709.0  
  Base Chemicals     318.5     273.7     939.6     746.6  
  Eliminations     (70.6 )   (58.2 )   (198.8 )   (156.1 )
   
 
 
 
 
    Total   $ 828.9   $ 730.5   $ 2,431.5   $ 2,068.5  
   
 
 
 
 
Segment EBITDA                          
  Performance Products   $ 37.1   $ 51.8   $ 105.1   $ 131.4  
  Polymers     17.6     24.8     54.0     61.1  
  Base Chemicals     3.9     12.8     (6.9 )   51.2  
  Unallocated and other     (8.9 )   (19.4 )   (23.1 )   (43.4 )
   
 
 
 
 
    Total(2)(3)   $ 49.7   $ 70.0   $ 129.1   $ 200.3  
   
 
 
 
 

(1)
Excludes the results of Huntsman International which was 60% owned and accounted for on the equity method through April 30, 2003 and fully consolidated beginning May 1, 2003. Huntsman International is separately financed from Huntsman LLC, their debt is non-recourse to Huntsman LLC and Huntsman LLC is not obligated to make cash contributions to, or investments in Huntsman International. Therefore, the results of Huntsman LLC are presented here exclusive of the results of Huntsman International to provide more meaningful information with respect to Huntsman LLC.

(2)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

(3)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains (losses)- unallocated   $ (0.9 ) $ (1.0 ) $ 7.0   $ (0.4 )
Restructuring expenses                          
  Polymers           3.7     (0.9 )   3.7  
Reorganization expenses                          
  Unallocated and other           (8.5 )         (15.5 )

Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH) Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 (Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2002)

        For the three months ended September 30, 2003, Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH) had EBITDA of $49.7 million on revenues of $828.9 million, compared to pro forma EBITDA of $70.0 million on revenues of $730.5 million for the same period in 2002. This compares to second quarter 2003 reported pro forma EBITDA of $46.6 million, which included $0.9 million of restructuring charges. The pro

11



forma results of Huntsman LLC exclude the consolidated results of Huntsman International and include the consolidated results of HCCA for all periods.

        Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2003 increased to $828.9 million, or 13%, from $730.5 million during the same period in 2002. Revenues increased in all business segments as the result of higher volumes and higher average selling prices as industry demand strengthened and prices increased in response to higher raw material costs.

        EBITDA for the three months ended September 30, 2003 decreased to $49.7 million, or 29%, from $70.0 million during the same period in 2002. EBITDA decreased in all segments as the result of the increases in revenues failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices.

Performance Products

        The increase in revenues in the Performance Products segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices in response to higher raw material prices and strong volume gains in our linear alkylbenzene, ethanolamines and ethylene glycol product lines.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Performance Products segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs.

Polymers

        The increase in revenues in the Polymers segment was primarily the result of higher volumes and higher average selling prices as industry demand strengthened and prices increased in response to higher raw material costs.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Polymers segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices.

Base Chemicals

        The increase in revenues in the Base Chemicals segment was primarily the result of higher volumes and higher average selling prices as industry demand strengthened and prices increased in response to higher raw material costs.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Base Chemicals segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices.

Unallocated Items

        Unallocated items include unallocated corporate overhead, foreign exchange gains and losses and reorganization costs. For the three months ended September 30, 2003, expenses from unallocated items decreased by $10.5 million to $8.9 million from $19.4 million for the same period in 2002. The decrease was primarily due to reduced reorganization expenses in the 2003 period as compared to the same period in 2002.

12



Huntsman International Holdings LLC

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept 30, 2002

 
 
  In Millions

 
Revenues   $ 1,275.7   $ 1,195.2   $ 3,880.8   $ 3,368.1  
Gross profit     146.5     174.9     436.3     458.0  
SG&A / Other expenses     100.4     102.3     296.8     272.1  
Restructuring and reorganization expenses     4.8     1.1     43.4     1.1  
Operating income     41.3     71.5     96.1     184.8  

Net loss

 

 

(46.6

)

 

(13.3

)

 

(181.4

)

 

(37.4

)
Interest expense — net     88.4     89.1     266.3     246.8  
Income tax expense     (5.3 )   (11.0 )   (14.0 )   (31.2 )
Depreciation and amortization     67.7     66.2     205.4     185.1  

EBITDA(1)(2)

 

$

104.2

 

$

131.0

 

$

276.3

 

$

363.3

 

(1)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

(2)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains — unallocated   $ 8.7   $ 4.1   $ 25.3   $ 29.0  
Loss on sale of accounts receivable     (5.9 )   (4.2 )   (24.0 )   (4.3 )
Asset write-down             (2.8 )    
Restructuring expenses:                          
  Polyurethanes     (3.7 )       (22.2 )    
  Performance Products         (1.1 )   (20.1 )   (1.1 )
  Pigments     (1.1 )       (1.1 )    
   
 
 
 
 
Total restructuring expenses   $ (4.8 ) $ (1.1 ) $ (43.4 ) $ (1.1 )

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Operating Results

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
 
  In Millions

 
Segment Sales                          
  Polyurethanes   $ 597.4   $ 545.6   $ 1,718.1   $ 1,557.0  
  Performance Products     164.9     143.3     490.5     426.8  
  Pigments     251.0     232.5     752.5     669.2  
  Base Chemicals     303.0     303.6     1,032.9     791.3  
  Eliminations     (40.6 )   (29.8 )   (113.2 )   (76.2 )
   
 
 
 
 
    Total   $ 1,275.7   $ 1,195.2   $ 3,880.8   $ 3,368.1  
   
 
 
 
 
Segment EBITDA                          
  Polyurethanes   $ 80.4   $ 93.9   $ 168.6   $ 292.1  
  Performance Products     4.6     3.5     (14.6 )   22.8  
  Pigments     27.6     21.1     87.4     45.2  
  Base Chemicals     1.0     20.8     64.8     5.6  
  Unallocated and other     (9.4 )   (8.3 )   (29.9 )   (2.4 )
   
 
 
 
 
    Total(1)(2)   $ 104.2   $ 131.0   $ 276.3   $ 363.3  
   
 
 
 
 

(1)
EBITDA is defined as earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

(2)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains — unallocated   $ 8.7   $ 4.1   $ 25.3   $ 29.0  
Loss on sale of accounts receivable     (5.9 )   (4.2 )   (24.0 )   (4.3 )
Asset write-down             (2.8 )    
Restructuring expenses:                          
  Polyurethanes   $ (3.7 ) $   $ (22.2 ) $  
  Performance Products         (1.1 )   (20.1 )   (1.1 )
  Pigments     (1.1 )       (1.1 )    
   
 
 
 
 
Total restructuring expenses   $ (4.8 ) $ (1.1 ) $ (43.4 ) $ (1.1 )

Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 (Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2002)

        For the three months ended September 30, 2003, Huntsman International had EBITDA of $104.2 million on revenues of $1,275.7 million, compared to EBITDA of $131.0 million on revenues of $1,195.2 million for the same period in 2002. This compares to EBITDA of $88.5 million in the second quarter of 2003, which included charges of $39.0 million. The third quarter 2003 results of Huntsman International include charges of $10.7 million, consisting of $4.8 million in restructuring charges and $5.9 million in loss on sale of accounts receivable. The $4.8 million in restructuring charges relate to an overall corporate cost reduction program to be implemented throughout 2003 and 2004, and consist of a $1.1 million charge related to the company's Pigments segment and a $3.7 million charge relating to the company's Polyurethanes segment.

14



        Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2003 increased to $1,275.7 million, or 7%, from $1,195.2 million during the same period in 2002. The increase in revenue was due to an increase in revenues in the Polyurethanes, Performance Products and Pigments segments and relatively flat revenues in the Base Chemicals segment.

        EBITDA for the three months ended September 30, 2003 decreased to $104.2 million, or 20%, from $131.0 million during the same period in 2002. The decrease in EBITDA was due to decreases in EBITDA in the Polyurethanes and Base Chemicals segments, partially offset by increases in EBITDA in the Performance Products and Pigments segments.

Polyurethanes

        The increase in revenues in the Polyurethanes segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices principally due to the strength of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, offset in part by lower volumes resulting largely from a reduction in spot sales to co-producers in the 2003 period.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Polyurethane segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices, and the incurrence in the third quarter of a $3.7 million restructuring charge taken in connection with cost reduction efforts at our Rozenburg, Netherlands facility.

Performance Products

        The increase in revenues in the Performance Products segment was primarily the result of higher average surfactant selling prices primarily due to the strength of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, partially offset by a decline in surfactant sales volumes due to softer European demand and weaker export sales. Additionally, ethyleneamines revenues increased largely due to increased export sales.

        The increase in EBITDA in the Performance Products segment was primarily the result of reductions in costs.

Pigments

        The increase in revenues in the Pigments segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices, the majority of which resulted from the strengthening of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, which more than offset a 1% volume decline.

        The increase in EBITDA in the Pigments segment was primarily the result of improved margins due to a more favorable industry supply-demand balance.

Base Chemicals

        The increase in revenues in the Base Chemicals segment was primarily the result of higher average selling prices in response to higher raw material costs, partially offset by lower sales volumes.

        The decrease in EBITDA in the Base Chemicals segment was primarily the result of revenue increases failing to keep pace with substantial increases in raw material costs due to the rise in oil and natural gas prices.

Unallocated Items

        Unallocated items include unallocated corporate overhead, foreign exchange gains and losses and reorganization costs. For the three months ended September 30, 2003, expenses from unallocated items

15



increased by $1.1 million to $9.4 million from $8.3 million for the same period in 2002. The increase was primarily due to increased losses on the sale of accounts receivable.

Huntsman Advanced Materials LLC

Pro Forma Operating Results

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002(1)

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003(1)

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002(1)

 
  In Millions

Sales   $ 257.8   $ 241.2   $ 789.5   $ 714.9
  EBITDA(2)     16.2     6.5     19.6     33.1

(1)
Pro forma to reflect the acquisition of Vantico S.A. and the related refinancing in connection therewith as if such transactions had occurred on January 1, 2002.

(2)
Included in EBITDA are the following items of income (expense):

 
  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Three Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2003

  Nine Months
Ended
Sept. 30, 2002

 
Foreign exchange gains (losses)—unallocated   $ 2.3   $ (1.5 ) $ 2.2   $ (7.7 )
Reorganization expenses           (5.9 )   (28.0 )   (7.6 )
Purchase acctg adj. — inventory valuation     (1.0 )         (1.0 )      
Contract termination costs — net                 (0.8 )      

Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 (Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2002 Pro Forma)

        For the three months ended September 30, 2003, Advanced Materials had EBITDA of $16.2 million on revenues of $257.8 million, compared to EBITDA of $6.5 million on revenues of $241.2 million for the same period in 2002. EBITDA for the three months ended September 30, 2002 included charges of $5.9 million. This compares to an EBITDA loss of $7.0 million in the second quarter of 2003, which included charges of $22.0 million.

Advanced Materials

        The increase in revenues in Advanced Materials was primarily the result of higher average selling prices, principally due to the strength of the major European currencies versus the U.S. dollar, and a 1% volume increase. The increase in EBITDA in Advanced Materials was the result of increased revenue, a reduction of SG&A costs primarily due to a reduction in restructuring charges, and reduced costs as a result of cost reduction initiatives.

Liquidity

HMP Equity Holdings

        HMP is a holding company established to hold the equity in Huntsman LLC, Huntsman International and Advanced Materials. HMP has no short-term debt outstanding and maintains no short-term credit facilities. As of September 30, 2003, HMP has approximately $163 million of cash on its consolidated balance sheet.

16



Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH)

        As of September 30, 2003, Huntsman LLC had borrowings of approximately $85 million outstanding under its $275 million revolving credit facility in addition to approximately $14 million in letters of credit issued, and Huntsman LLC had approximately $28 million of cash on its balance sheet. Huntsman LLC's cash and undrawn commitments under the revolving credit facility, as of September 30, 2003, were approximately $204 million, subject to covenants under the revolving credit facility, including a minimum revolving credit facility availability covenant. Capital expenditures for the third quarter were approximately $28 million compared with $13 million in the third quarter of 2002. The capital spending through September 30, 2003 of approximately $65 million is representative of our normalized capital expenditure run rate.

        On September 30, 2003, Huntsman LLC completed a $380 million offering of Senior Secured Notes issued at a discount, the proceeds of which were used to repay approximately $65 million on the revolving credit facility and approximately $297 million on the Term Loan A. As a result of this offering, there are no scheduled term loan payments under Huntsman LLC's senior secured credit facilities until December of 2005.

Huntsman International

        As of September 30, 2003, Huntsman International had borrowings of $199 million outstanding under its $400 million revolving credit facility in addition to approximately $7 million in letters of credit issued, and Huntsman International had approximately $81 million of cash on its balance sheet. Huntsman International also maintains $25 million of short-term overdraft facilities, of which approximately $21 million was available at September 30, 2003. As part of a refinancing that was completed on October 22, 2003 as described below, approximately $53 million was repaid against the revolving credit facility. Total liquidity of as of September 30, 2003 was approximately $296 million, or approximately $349 million on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the October 22, 2003 refinancing. Capital expenditures for the third quarter were approximately $42 million compared with $40 million in the third quarter of 2002.

        On October 17, 2003, Huntsman International amended its senior secured credit facilities. The amendment provides, among other things, for changes to certain financial covenants, including the leverage and interest coverage ratios, the annual amount of permitted capital expenditures, and the consolidated net worth covenant. These changes to the financial covenants apply to the quarterly period ended September 30, 2003 and will continue through the quarterly periods ended December 31, 2004. The amendment also allows for the issuance of $205 million of additional term B and term C loans, which was accomplished on October 22, 2003, the net proceeds of which have been applied to pay down our revolving loan facility by approximately $53 million, and the remainder of the net proceeds have been applied to repay, in full, the term A loan. As a result of the prepayment of term debt with the proceeds from the recent refinancing of the term loan A, there are no scheduled term debt maturities under the senior secured credit facilities until the second quarter 2005. In 2005 and 2006, the scheduled term debt maturities under the senior secured credit facilities are approximately $12 million in each year.

Huntsman Advanced Materials

        As of September 30, 2003, Advanced Materials had no borrowings outstanding under its $60 million revolving credit facility and approximately $15 million in letters of credit issued thereunder. Advanced Materials had approximately $46 million of cash on its balance sheet as of September 30, 2003 and total liquidity was approximately $91 million. Advanced Materials has no scheduled debt amortization payments until July 2008.

17



Outstanding Debt

 
  Sept. 30, 2003
 
 
  In Millions

 
Huntsman LLC (excluding HIH):        
  Senior Secured Debt   $ 1,561  
  Senior Unsecured Debt     37  
  Senior Subordinated Debt     59  
  Other Debt(1)     237  
   
 
  Subtotal     1,894  
Huntsman International(2):        
  Senior Secured Debt     1,382  
  Senior Unsecured Debt     457  
  Senior Subordinated Notes     1,127  
  Other Debt     33  
   
 
  Subtotal (Huntsman International LLC)     2,999  
  HIH Senior and Senior Sub. Discount Notes(3)     767  
   
 
  Subtotal (Huntsman International Holdings LLC)     3,766  
Huntsman Advanced Materials:        
  Senior Secured Debt     348  
  Other Debt     5  
   
 
  Subtotal     353  
HMP:        
  Senior Secured Notes(3)(4)     336  
  Elimination of HIH Senior Sub. Discount Notes(5)     (346 )
   
 
Total HMP Debt     6,003  
Cash     163  
   
 
Net Debt   $ 5,840  
   
 

(1)
Includes non-recourse financed Australian credit facilities, mortgage note payable, subordinated note at Huntsman Specialty Chemicals Corporation and PIK note due to affiliate.

(2)
Excludes approximately $298 million of off balance sheet financing obtained under the accounts receivable securitization program.

(3)
Non-cash pay debt.

(4)
Excludes value attributable to warrants issued in conjunction with the notes.

(5)
HMP owns the HIH Senior Subordinated Discount Notes which it acquired on May 9, 2003. These notes are eliminated in consolidation.

Conference Call Information

        We will hold a conference call to discuss the third quarter financial results of HMP, Huntsman International, Huntsman LLC and Advanced Materials on Monday, November 10, 2003 at 12:00 noon EST.

Call-in number for U.S. participants:   (888) 423-3268
Call in number for international participants:   (651) 291-0900

18


        The conference call will be replayed beginning November 10, 2003 at 8:00 PM EST and ending Saturday, November 15, 2003 at 2:00 AM EST.

Call-in numbers for the replay:        
    Within the U.S.:
International:
  (800) 475-6701
(320) 365-3844

Access code for replay:

 

703884

 

 

        Statements in this release that are not historical are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's current beliefs and expectations. The forward-looking statements in this release are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances and involve risks and uncertainties that may affect the company's operations, markets, products, services, prices and other factors as discussed in the Huntsman companies' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Significant risks and uncertainties may relate to, but are not limited to, financial, economic, competitive, environmental, political, legal, regulatory and technological factors. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the company's expectations will be realized. The company assumes no obligation to provide revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.

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