German chemical and plastics manufacturing company.
Founded in 1865, BASF (the full German name means "Baden Aniline and Soda Factory") was part of the chemical cartel IG Farben from 1925 until 1945, when the latter was dissolved by the Allies. Refounded in 1952, BASF expanded operations globally to become one of the world's largest chemical companies. Its products have included oil and natural gas, fertilizers, synthetic fibers, dyes and pigments, inks and printing accessories. BASF sold its pharmaceutical company, Knoll, in 2001 to focus on its chemical businesses. Its headquarters are in Ludwigshafen am Rhein.