Mitsui Chemicals to Issue Invitation to the “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award” and to Organize “The Fourth Mitsui Chemicals International Symposium on Catalysis Science(MICS2009)”

March 17, 2008

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (“MCI”) announces the start of invitations to the “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award” and the “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award of Encouragement” beginning May 1st this year.

In addition, MCI announces the hosting of “The Fourth Mitsui Chemicals International Symposium on Catalysis Science(MICS2009)”in March 2009.

1. Invitation to the “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award”

With the aim of contributing to the sustainable development of chemistry and the chemical industry, MCI established the “Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award” in 2004. In particular, the Award is designed to recognize researchers who have made outstanding achievements in catalysis science. The first award ceremony for winners was held in March 2005, while the second was in March 2007. This will be the third award invitation. Please see the attachment for further details.

2.“The Fourth MItsui Chemicals Internationl Symposium on Catalysis Science 2009(MICS2009)”

With the aim of providing a common platform for intellectual exchange to scientific talents from around the world and the creation of new knowledge, “MICS2009” will be held on March 11 and 12, 2009 to provide a forum for discourse on catalysis science contributing to advancements for an affluent society through the creation of high-performance materials and substances. Professor R. Hoffmann (Cornell University in U.S.A.), a Nobel Prize Laureate, and Emeritus Professor H. B. Kagan (Université Paris-Sud in France), an award winner of The Wolf Prize, are slated to deliver the plenary lectures.

Furthermore, MCI plans to hold the Award Ceremony for the winners of “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award” and “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award of Encouragement,” and the winners will be requested to deliver commemorative lectures at MICS2009.

MCI plays a leading role in the field of catalysis science, mainly catalysts for olefin polymers. MCI continuously works on leading-edge catalyst development by utilizing its long-standing scientific network in catalysis science contributing to advancements in affluent society through the creation of high-performance materials and substances.

(Attachment) Invitation summary of the “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award” and the “2009 Mitsui Chemicals Catalysis Science Award of Encouragement”