Nippon Carbon has been a leader in the industry since its establishment in 1915. The company has adopted a dynamic approach and has aimed to be one step ahead of the times. Nippon Carbon is built upon a cornerstone of technology to support its activity in order to draw out the superior yet undiscovered mysteries of carbon. We continue to come out with new and unique products for the world. One of the first such revolutionary developments was the artificial graphite electrode for use in electric steel making. Not only does Nippon Carbon have a history of contributing to the development of industry, but also one of contributing to society as a whole. Recently, with new products such as lithium ion secondary battery anode, results have steadily improved. Nippon Carbon is providing promising materials in line with the expectations of shareholders and business partners. The company is also conscious of the mounting importance of environmental concerns that becomes more and more serious each year. For a long time already, measures have been taken to improve wastewater treatment facilities and equipment for capture of CFCs and other such gases. In 1998 all three of our main factories have since obtained ISO14001, and in an effort to promote an environment that is friendlier to people and nature. Nippon Carbon's company slogan is "Aiming toward a society of love and science, we are a company with a dream and technology." With the dawn of a new century, this serves as a guiding beacon for the creation of a prosperous and comfortable society. We at the company continue to do our utmost to meet this challenge. Your continued support is greatly valued.