Haier and Dow Chemical Jointly Launch World-leading “Magic-Pellets Washing” Technology

Shanghai, China - ---

Haier and The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE:DOW) jointly announced the introduction of “Magic-Pellets Washing” (MPW), the world’s most revolutionary washing technology, in China today. The new MPW technology will significantly reduce the water and detergent consumption of laundry, greatly contributing to environmental protection and energy conservation.

The MPW technology is the result of the close partnership between Haier and Dow in research and development. A team of experts from both companies have worked together over the past two years in pioneering this technology.

The application of Haier –Dow MPW technology marks a revolution in conventional washing techniques. The MPW technology introduces a brand new element into the washing process – unique washing pellets, which can effectively capture dirt from clothes through absorption, requiring only a small amount of water. The pellets are self-cleaning and reusable, making them a great technology to revolutionize the global laundry industry.

“The Less Water Washing Machine, equipped with MPW technology, is a valuable result of the collaboration between two innovation leaders at different points in the value chain, as well as an evidence of our joint efforts to address market megatrends and introduce breakthrough technology that benefits consumers,” commented Dr. Weiguang Yao, Chief Technology Officer, Dow Asia Pacific. “Dow is very proud that our locally grown innovation has led to this cutting-the-edge green product, representing another milestone in the strategic partnership between Dow and Haier. Driving close collaboration with leading market players is one of our key business strategies. Our global R&D center in Shanghai will continue to serve as an innovation engine to create sustainable solutions that bring value to our customers and society as a whole.”

It is estimated by the experts from the industry that a Less Water Washing Machine from Haier, powered by MPW technology, can save approximately 70 tons of water and nearly 1,300 kWh of electricity during its lifecycle, the reduction in CO2 emissions equates to planting 6 trees. The new technology has successfully solved the dilemma of minimizing water and electricity consumption while maximizing cleaning.

About Haier

Founded in 1984, the Haier Group has been dedicated to innovation and creating a world famous brand over the past 26 years. Originally a small collective plant on the verge of bankruptcy, it has now grown into an international group which has more than 70,000 employees around the globe and realizes a turnover of RMB 135.7 billion in 2010. Haier has risen to be the world’s No. 1 brand of consumer appliances. It was selected as one of the world’s Top 10 Innovative Companies by Newsweek.com.

According to the latest statistics released by the world’s renowned market research firm Euromonitor, Haier continues to be the No. 1 brand in the global large white home appliances segment, with a market share of 6.1%, one percent higher than last year. Haier remains the first brand in the global refrigerator, washing machine, and wine cooler market in terms of market share. In the ranking of brands in the refrigerator segment, the Haier brand accounts for 10.8% of the market and has been market leader for three consecutive years with a 5 percent lead over the No. 2 brand. Haier Refrigerator Company has been the world’s largest manufacturer of refrigerators for two consecutive years, with a market share of 12.6%. In the washing machines segment, Haier is the world’s No. 1 brand for the second year in a row, with a market share of 9.1%. In the wine cooler segment, Haier has become the world’s No. 1 brand for the first time, with a global market share of 14.8%. Maintaining the world’s No. 1 position exemplifies Haier’s innovation capabilities in the white home appliances field to address consumer needs in the complex marketplace.

About Dow

Dow combines the power of science and technology with the “Human Element” to passionately innovate what is essential to human progress. The Company connects chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help address many of the world’s most challenging problems such as the need for clean water, renewable energy generation and conservation, and increasing agricultural productivity. Dow’s diversified industry-leading portfolio of specialty chemical, advanced materials, agrosciences and plastics businesses delivers a broad range of technology-based products and solutions to customers in approximately 160 countries and in high growth sectors such as electronics, water, energy, coatings and agriculture. In 2010, Dow had annual sales of $53.7 billion and employed approximately 50,000 people worldwide. The Company’s more than 5,000 products are manufactured at 188 sites in 35 countries across the globe. References to “Dow” or the “Company” mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.