BASF Sees China Demand, Auto Recovery Helping Amid Trade Drag

BASF SE said growing chemicals demand and rising auto production in China are helping to offset weakness elsewhere due to trade uncertainties.

The German chemicals company’s chief executive officer, Markus Kamieth, cited “considerable growth in China,” where domestic automakers are gaining ground. That’s fueling demand for BASF products like coatings for automotive catalysts and vehicles, he said during a call with analysts, and making up for weakness in German auto output.