The ratings reflect E.I. DuPont de Nemours&Co.'s excellent business risk profile as one of the world's premier chemical producers, with annual sales of about $28 billion, and an intermediate financial risk profile. Wilmington, Del.-based DuPont's key business strengths include leading technology and cost positions in an exceptionally broad mix of products and geographic markets (nearly 60% of sales are outside the U.S.). These attributes result in relatively consistent earnings and cash flows. DuPont's key business segments include: agriculture and nutrition, coatings and color technologies, electronic and communication technologies, performance materials, and safety and protection. The company's business portfolio has undergone a transformation during the past several years, highlighted by the sale of its INVISTA textile fibers business, the
