BASF’s board has decided to also wind down all business activities in Russia and Belarus by the beginning of July, except those needed to support food production. The company said that the decision was driven by the recent developments in the war in Ukraine and international law, including the fifth sanctions package by the EU.

Clariant, Solvay, Chemours and Novozymes have all announced plans to suspend business with Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine. They have all also pledged support for employees in the affected countries and made donations to support relief operations.

Clariant suspended operations with immediate effect. CEO Conrad Keijzer said: “Continuing to do business under these circumstances is incompatible with our purpose and values”. The company has a sales office and a laboratory in Moscow, which contribute about 2% of its sales. It also employs 146 people in Ukraine.