Edgar Filing: NL INDUSTRIES INC

kii10k2008.htm

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K
X
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934:
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008
Commission file number 333-100047

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

DELAWARE	22-2949593
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(IRS Employer Identification No.)

5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700
Dallas, Texas 75240-2697
(Address of principal executive offices)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (972) 233-1700

No securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

No securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

Indicate by check mark:

If the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes No X

If the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes No X

Whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No

Whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Large accelerated filer Accelerated filer Non-accelerated filer X Smaller reporting company

Whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes No X

No common stock was held by nonaffiliates of the Registrant as of June 30, 2008 (the last business day of the Registrant's most recently-completed second fiscal quarter).

As of February 27, 2009, 2,968 shares of the Registrant's common stock were outstanding.

The Registrant is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kronos Worldwide, Inc. (File No. 1-31763) and meets the conditions set forth in General Instructions I(1) (a) and (b) and is therefore filing this Form 10-K with the reduced disclosure format.

Documents incorporated by reference

None.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I		Page

Item 1.	Business	4
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	10
Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	12
Item 2.	Properties	12
Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	13
Item 4.	Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders*	13


Part II

Item 5.	Market for our Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters	13
Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	14
Item 7.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation	15
Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	32
Item 8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	33
Item 9.	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosures	33
Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	33
Item 9B.	Other Information	35

Part III

Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	35
Item 11.	Executive Compensation*	35
Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management*	35
Item 13.	Certain Relationships and related transactions*	36
Item 14.	Principal Accounting Fees and Services	36

Part IV

Item 15.	Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules	36

Signatures

* We meet the conditions set forth in the General Instructions I (1)(a) and (b) and have therefore omitted these items.

Forward-Looking Information

This report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statement in this report that is not a statement of historical fact may be deemed to be a forward-looking statement. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. We do not intend to assume any duty to update or revise any forward-looking statements for new information, future events or otherwise.

Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "believes," "intends," "may," "should," "could," "anticipates," "expected" or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategies or trends. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot give assurances that these expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties which could significantly impact expected results, and actual results could differ materially from those described. It is not possible to identify all of the risks and uncertainties we face that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in this report. But, we have included discussion on the following most significant risk factors in Item 1A of this document:

·	Future supply and demand for our products

·	The extent of the dependence of certain of our businesses on certain market sectors

·	The cyclicality of our businesses

·	Customer inventory levels (such as the extent to which our customers may, from time to time, accelerate purchases of titanium dioxide pigments (“TiO2”) in advance of anticipated price increases or defer purchases of TiO2 in advance of anticipated price decreases)

·	Changes in raw material and other operating costs (such as energy costs)

·	General global economic and political conditions (such as changes in the level of gross domestic product in various regions of the world and the impact of such changes on demand for TiO2)

·	Competitive products and substitute products

·	Customer and competitor strategies

·	Potential consolidation or solvency of our competitors

·	The impact of pricing and production decisions

·	Competitive technology positions

·	Possible disruption of our business or increases in the cost of doing business resulting from terrorist activities or global conflicts

·	The introduction of trade barriers

·	Fluctuations in currency exchange rates (such as changes in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and each of the euro and the Norwegian kroner)

·	Operating interruptions (including, but not limited to, labor disputes, leaks, natural disasters, fires, explosions, unscheduled or unplanned downtime and transportation interruptions)

·	The timing and amounts of insurance recoveries

·	Our ability to renew or refinance credit facilities

·	Our ability to maintain sufficient liquidity

·	The ultimate outcome of income tax audits, tax settlement initiatives or other tax matters

·	The ultimate ability to utilize income tax attributes, the benefits of which have been recognized under the more-likely-than-not recognition criteria

·	Environmental matters (such as those requiring compliance with emission and discharge standards for existing and new facilities)

·	Government laws and regulations and possible changes therein

·	The ultimate resolution of pending litigation

·	Possible future litigation

Should one or more of these risks materialize (or the consequences of such a development worsen), or should the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from those forecasted or expected. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of changes in information, future events or otherwise.

PART I

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS

General

Kronos International, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is registered in the Commercial Register of the Federal Republic of Germany. We are a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kronos Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: KRO; “Kronos”). At December 31, 2008, (i) Valhi, Inc. (NYSE: VHI) held approximately 59% of Kronos’ common stock and NL Industries, Inc. (NYSE: NL) held an additional 36% of Kronos’ common stock, (ii) Valhi held 83% of NL’s outstanding common stock and (iii) Subsidiaries of Contran Corporation held approximately 94% of Valhi’s outstanding common stock. Substantially all of Contran’s outstanding voting stock is held by trusts established for the benefit of certain descendants of Harold C. Simmons (of which Mr. Simmons is trustee), or is held by persons or other entities related to Mr. Simmons. Consequently, Mr. Simmons may be deemed to control all of these companies.

Our principal place of business is in Leverkusen, Germany. We conduct Kronos’ European value-added TiO2 pigment operations. We, along with our distributors and agents sell our products to over 3,000 customers in approximately 100 countries with the majority of sales in Europe. Our chemical businesses have operated in the European markets before the 1920’s. We have considerable expertise and efficiency in the manufacture, sale, shipment and service of our products.

TiO2 is an inorganic pigment used to impart whiteness, brightness and opacity for products such as coatings, plastics, paper, fibers, food, ceramics and cosmetics. TiO2 is considered a “quality-of-life” product with demand and growth affected by gross domestic product and overall economic conditions in our markets in various parts of the world. TiO2 derives its value from its whitening properties and hiding power (opacity), which is the ability to cover or mask other materials effectively and efficiently. TiO2 is the largest commercially used whitening pigment because it has a high refractive rating giving it more hiding power than any other commercially produced white pigment. In addition, TiO2 has excellent resistance to interaction with other chemicals, good thermal stability and resistance to ultraviolet degradation. We ship TiO2 to our customers in either a powder form or a slurry form via rail, truck and ocean carrier. Including our predecessors, we have produced and marketed TiO2 in Europe, North America and other parts of the world for over 80 years.

Per capita utilization of TiO2 in the United States and Western Europe far exceeds that of other areas of the world. We expect these markets to continue to be the largest consumers of TiO2 for the foreseeable future. More significant markets are emerging in Eastern Europe and the Far East as the economies in these regions develop to the point that quality-of-life products, including TiO2, experience greater demand. In addition, China has developed into a significant market and as its economy continues to develop it is probable that quality-of-life products, including TiO2 will experience greater demand in that country.

Sales of TiO2 were about 84% of our net sales in 2008. The remaining 16% of net sales is made up of other product lines that are complementary to TiO2. These other products are described as follows:

We own and operate an ilmenite mine in Norway pursuant to a governmental concession with an unlimited term, and we are currently excavating a second mine located near the first mine. Ilmenite is a raw material used directly as a feedstock by some sulfate-process TiO2 plants, including all of our sulfate-process plants. We also sell ilmenite ore to third-parties some of whom are our competitors. The mines have estimated aggregate reserves that are expected to last for at least another 60 years.

We manufacture and sell iron-based chemicals, which are co-products and processed co-products of the sulfate and chloride process TiO2 pigment production. These co-product chemicals are marketed through our Ecochem division, and are used primarily as treatment and conditioning agents for industrial effluents and municipal wastewater as well as in the manufacture of iron pigments, cement and agricultural products.

We manufacture and sell titanium oxychloride and titanyl sulfate, which are side-stream products from the production of TiO2. Titanium oxychloride is used in specialty applications in the formulation of pearlescent pigments, production of electroceramic capacitors for cell phones and other electronic devices. Titanyl sulfate products are used primarily in pearlescent pigments.

Manufacturing and operation

We currently produce over 40 different TiO2 grades under the KronosTM trademark which provide a variety of performance properties to meet customers’ specific requirements. Our major customers include domestic and international paint, plastics and paper manufacturers.

Extenders, such as kaolin clays, calcium carbonate and polymeric opacifiers, are used in a number of the same end-use markets as white pigments. However, the opacity in these products is not able to duplicate the performance characteristics of TiO2, therefore we believe these products are not effective substitutes for TiO2.

We produce TiO2 in two crystalline forms: rutile and anatase. Rutile TiO2 is manufactured using both a chloride production process and a sulfate production process, whereas anatase TiO2 is only produced using a sulfate production process. Chloride process rutile is preferred for the majority of customer applications. From a technical standpoint, chloride process rutile has a bluer undertone and higher durability than sulfate process rutile. Although many end-use applications can use either form, chloride process rutile is the preferred form for use in coatings and plastics, the two largest end-use markets. Sulfate process anatase represents a much smaller percentage of annual global TiO2 production and is preferred for use in selected paper, ceramics, rubber tires, man-made fibers, food and cosmetics.

Chloride production process. Approximately two-thirds of our current production capacity is based on the chloride process. The chloride process is a continuous process in which chlorine is used to extract rutile TiO2. The chloride process typically has lower manufacturing costs than the sulfate process due to newer technology, higher yield, less waste, lower energy requirements and lower labor costs. The chloride process produces less waste than the sulfate process because much of the chlorine is recycled and feedstock bearing a higher titanium content is used.

Sulfate production process. The sulfate process is a batch chemical process that uses sulfuric acid to extract both rutile and anatase TiO2.

Once an intermediate TiO2 pigment has been produced by either the chloride or sulfate process, it is “finished” into products with specific performance characteristics for particular end-use applications through proprietary processes involving various chemical surface treatments and intensive micronizing (milling). Due to environmental factors and customer considerations, the proportion of TiO2 industry sales represented by chloride process pigments has increased relative to sulfate process pigments and, in 2008 chloride process production facilities represented approximately 60% of industry capacity.

We produced slightly over 350,000 metric tons of TiO2 in 2008, compared to 350,000 metric tons in 2007 and 348,000 metric tons in 2006. Our average production capacity utilization rates were near or at full capacity in 2006, 2007 and 2008. Our production capacity has increased by approximately 30% over the past ten years due to debottlenecking programs, with only moderate capital expenditures. We believe our annual attainable production capacity for 2009 is approximately 362,000 metric tons; however, we do expect our production volumes in 2009 will be significantly lower than our attainable capacity. See Outlook in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Raw materials

The primary raw materials used in chloride process TiO2 are titanium-containing feedstock (natural rutile ore or purchased slag), chlorine and coke. Chlorine and coke are available from a number of suppliers. Titanium-containing feedstock suitable for use in the chloride process is available from a limited but increasing number of suppliers principally in Australia, South Africa, Canada, India and the United States. Through Kronos (US), Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kronos, we purchase chloride process grade slag from Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium under a long-term supply contract that expires at the end of 2011. We purchase natural rutile ore primarily from Iluka Resources, Limited under a long-term supply contract that expires at the end of 2009. We expect to be successful in obtaining long-term extensions to these and other existing supply contracts prior to their expiration. We expect the raw materials purchased under these contracts to meet our chloride process feedstock requirements over the next several years.

The primary raw materials used in sulfate process TiO2 are titanium-containing feedstock (primarily ilmenite from our Norwegian mine or purchased slag) and sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid is available from a number of suppliers. Titanium-containing feedstock suitable for use in the sulfate process is available from a limited number of suppliers principally in Norway, Canada, Australia, India and South Africa. As one of the few vertically integrated producers of sulfate process TiO2, we own and operate a rock ilmenite mine in Norway which provided all of the feedstock for our European sulfate process TiO2 plants in 2008. We expect ilmenite production from our mine to meet our sulfate process feedstock requirements for the foreseeable future and any remaining will be sold to third parties.

Many of our raw material contracts contain fixed quantities we are required to purchase, although these contracts allow for an upward or downward adjustment in the quantity purchased. The pricing under these agreements is generally negotiated annually.

The following table summarizes our raw materials procured or mined in 2008.

Production Process/Raw Material	Quantities of Raw Materials Procured or Mined
	(In thousands of metric tons)
Chloride process plants -
purchased slag or natural rutile ore	273

Sulfate process plants -
raw ilmenite ore mined internally	305

Competition

The TiO2 industry is highly competitive. Our principal competitors are E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.; Millennium Inorganic Chemicals, Inc. (a subsidiary of National Titanium Dioxide Company Ltd. (Cristal)); Tronox Incorporated; Huntsman Corporation (Huntsman); and Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd. These competitors have estimated individual shares of TiO2 production capacity ranging from 4% (for Ishihara) to 22% (for DuPont), and an estimated aggregate share of worldwide TiO2 production volume in excess of 60%. Tronox filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in January 2009, and it is unclear how and to what extent Tronox or a successor will compete in the TiO2 industry at the conclusion of Tronox’s bankruptcy proceedings.

We compete primarily on the basis of price, product quality and technical service and the availability of high-performance pigment grades. Although certain TiO2 grades are considered specialty pigments, the majority of our grades and substantially all of our production are considered commodity pigments with price generally being the most significant competitive factor. We believe that we are the leading seller of TiO2 in Germany and are among the leading marketers in the Benelux and Scandinavian markets. We had an estimated 9% share of worldwide TiO2 sales volume in 2008. Overall, we are Europe’s second largest producer of TiO2.

Over the past ten years, we and our competitors have increased industry capacity through debottlenecking projects. Given the current economic environment and reduced industry demand, we do not expect any significant efforts will be undertaken by us or our competitors to further increase capacity through such projects for the foreseeable future. In addition, Huntsman announced the closure of one of its European facilities. We believe further shutdowns or closures in the industry are possible. Even with these reductions in industry capacity, capacity utilization rates by us and our competitors are expected to be lower in 2009 as compared to 2008 as a response to a reduction in industry-wide demand, which in turn will result in downward pressure on average TiO2 selling prices. Once the economic environment improves and industry-wide demand increases, the expected reduction in industry-wide capacity through plant shutdowns should have a favorable impact on production capacity utilization, selling prices and profitability. However, the volatility of the near term economic environment makes it difficult to forecast future demand. If actual developments differ from our expectations, ours and the TiO2 industry's performances could continue to be unfavorably affected longer than expected.

Worldwide capacity additions in the TiO2 market resulting from construction of new plants require significant capital expenditures and substantial lead time (typically three to five years in our experience). We are not aware of any TiO2 plants currently under construction, and we believe it is not likely that any new plants will be constructed in the foreseeable future.

Research and development

Our research and development activities are directed primarily at improving the chloride and sulfate production processes, improving product quality and strengthening our competitive position by developing new pigment applications. Our research and development activities are conducted at our Leverkusen, Germany facility. Our expenditures for research and development and certain technical support programs were approximately $11 million in 2006, and $12 million in each of 2007 and 2008. We plan to scale back our research and development activities in 2009 to the extent possible due to the current adverse economic environment; consequently our research and development expenditures in 2009 are expected to be lower as compared to recent history.

We continually seek to improve the quality of our grades, and have been successful at developing new grades for existing and new applications to meet the needs of customers and increase product life cycle. Since 2002, we have added over 15 new grades for plastics, coatings, fibers and paper laminate applications.

Patents and trademarks

We believe that our patents held for products and production processes are important to us and our continuing business activities. We seek patent protection for our technical developments, principally in the United States, Canada and Europe, and from time to time we enter into licensing arrangements with third parties. Our existing patents generally have terms of 20 years from the date of filing, and have remaining terms ranging from 1 to 19 years. We seek to protect our intellectual property rights, including our patent rights, and from time to time are engaged in disputes relating to the protection and use of intellectual property relating to our products.

Our trademarks, including Kronos, are protected by registration in the United States and elsewhere with respect to those products we manufacture and sell. We also rely on unpatented proprietary knowledge and continuing technological innovation, and other trade secrets to develop and maintain our competitive position. Our proprietary chloride production process is an important part of our technology, and our business could be harmed if we fail to maintain confidentiality of our trade secrets used in this technology.

Major customers

We sell to a diverse customer base, and no single customer made up more than 10% of our sales for 2008. Our largest ten customers, excluding sales to Kronos and affiliates accounted for approximately 20% of sales in 2008.

Seasonality

Neither our business as a whole nor that of any of our principal product groups is seasonal to any significant extent. However, TiO2 sales are generally higher in the first half of the year. This is due in part to the increase in paint production in the spring to meet demand during the spring and summer painting season.

Employees

As of December 31, 2008, we employed approximately 2,000 persons. Hourly employees in our production facilities are represented by a variety of labor unions, with labor agreements having various expiration dates. Our union employees are covered by master collective bargaining agreements in the chemicals industry that are generally renewed annually. We believe our labor relations are good.

Regulatory and environmental matters

Our operations are governed by various environmental laws and regulations. Certain of our operations are, or have been, engaged in the handling, manufacture or use of substances or compounds that may be considered toxic or hazardous within the meaning of applicable environmental laws and regulations. As with other companies engaged in similar businesses, certain of our past and current operations and products have the potential to cause environmental or other damage. We have implemented and continue to implement various policies and programs in an effort to minimize these risks. Our policy is to maintain compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations at all of our facilities and to strive to improve our environmental performance. It is possible that future developments, such as stricter requirements in environmental laws and enforcement policies, could adversely affect our production, handling, use, storage, transportation, sale or disposal of such substances and could adversely affect our consolidated financial position and results of operations or liquidity.

While the laws regulating operations of industrial facilities in Europe vary from country to country, a common regulatory framework is provided by the European Union (“EU”). Germany and Belgium are members of the EU and follow its initiatives. Norway is not a member but generally patterns its environmental regulatory actions after the EU. We believe that we have obtained all required permits and are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental requirements for our facilities.

At our sulfate plant facilities in Germany, we recycle weak sulfuric acid either through contracts with third parties or at our own facilities. In addition, at our German locations we have a contract with a third party to treat certain sulfate-process effluents. At our Norwegian plant, we ship spent acid to a third party location where it is used as a neutralization agent. These contracts may be terminated by either party after giving three or four years advance notice, depending on the contract.

From time to time, our facilities may be subject to environmental regulatory enforcement under U.S. and non-U.S. statutes. Typically we establish compliance programs to resolve these matters. Occasionally, we may pay penalties. To date such penalties have not involved amounts having a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity. We believe that all of our facilities are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws.

In December 2006, the EU approved Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (“REACH”), which took effect on June 1, 2007 and will be phased in over 11 years. Under REACH, companies that manufacture or import more than one ton of a chemical substance per year will be required to register such chemical substances in a central data base. REACH affects our European operations by imposing a testing, evaluation and registration program for many of the chemicals we use or produce in Europe. We have established a REACH team that is working to identify and list all substances purchased, manufactured or imported by or for us in the EU. We spent $.4 million in 2007 and $.5 million in 2008 on REACH compliance, and we do not anticipate that future compliance costs will be material to us.

Capital expenditures in 2008 related to ongoing environmental compliance, protection and improvement programs were $11.8 million, and are currently expected to be approximately $1 million in 2009.

Website and other available information

Our fiscal year ends December 31. Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports are available on Kronos’ website at www.kronosww.com, as we do not maintain our own website. These reports are available on the website, without charge, as soon as is reasonably practicable after we file or furnish them electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Information contained on this website is not part of this report. We will also provide free copies of such documents upon written request. Such requests should be directed to the Corporate Secretary at our address on the cover page of this Form 10-K.

The public may read and copy any materials we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information about the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. We are an electronic filer, and the SEC maintains an internet website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Below are certain risk factors associated with our business. In addition to the potential effect of these risk factors discussed below, any risk factor which could result in reduced earnings or operating losses, or reduced liquidity, could in turn adversely affect our ability to service our liabilities or pay dividends on our common stock or adversely affect the quoted market prices for our securities.

Demand for, and prices of, certain of our products are influenced by changing market conditions and we are currently operating in a depressed worldwide market for our products, which may result in reduced earnings or operating losses.

Approximately 84% of our revenues are attributable to sales of TiO2. Pricing within the global TiO2 industry over the long term is cyclical, and changes in economic conditions, especially in Western industrialized nations, can significantly impact our earnings and operating cash flows. The current world-wide economic downturn has depressed sales volumes in the fourth quarter of 2008, and we are unable to predict with a high degree of certainty when demand will return to the levels experienced prior to the fourth quarter of 2008. This may result in reduced earnings or operating losses.

Historically, the markets for many of our products have experienced alternating periods of increasing and decreasing demand. Relative changes in the selling prices for our products are one of the main factors that affect the level of our profitability. In periods of increasing demand, our selling prices and profit margins generally will tend to increase, while in periods of decreasing demand our selling prices and profit margins generally tend to decrease. Huntsman announced the closure of one if its European facilities, and we believe further shutdowns or closures in the industry are possible. The closures may not be sufficient to alleviate the current excess industry capacity and such conditions may be further aggravated by anticipated or unanticipated capacity additions or other events.

The demand for TiO2 during a given year is also subject to annual seasonal fluctuations. TiO2 sales are generally higher in the first half of the year. This is due in part to the increase in paint production in the spring to meet demand during the spring and summer painting season. See Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for further discussion on production and price changes.

We sell several of our products in mature and highly-competitive industries and face price pressures in the markets in which we operate, which may result in reduced earnings or operating losses.

The global markets in which we operate our business are highly competitive. Competition is based on a number of factors, such as price, product quality and service. Some of our competitors may be able to drive down prices for our products because their costs are lower than our costs. In addition, some of our competitors' financial, technological and other resources may be greater than our resources, and such competitors may be better able to withstand changes in market conditions. Our competitors may be able to respond more quickly than we can to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements. Further, consolidation of our competitors or customers may result in reduced demand for our products or make it more difficult for us to compete with our competitors. New competitors could emerge by modifying their existing production facilities so they could manufacture products that compete with our products. The occurrence of any of these events could result in reduced earnings or operating losses.

Higher costs or limited availability of our raw materials may reduce our earnings and decrease our liquidity.

The number of sources for and availability of, certain raw materials is specific to the particular geographical region in which a facility is located. For example, titanium-containing feedstocks suitable for use in our TiO2 facilities are available from a limited number of suppliers around the world. Political and economic instability in the countries from which we purchase our raw material supplies could adversely affect their availability. If our worldwide vendors were unable to meet their contractual obligations and we were unable to obtain necessary raw materials, we could incur higher costs for raw materials or may be required to reduce production levels. We may not always be able to increase our selling prices to offset the impact of any higher costs or reduced production levels, which could reduce our earnings and decrease our liquidity.

Negative global economic conditions increase the risk that we could suffer unrecoverable losses on our customers’ accounts receivable which would adversely affect our financial results.

We extend credit and payment terms to our customers. Although we have an ongoing process of evaluating customers’ financial condition, we could suffer significant losses if a customer fails and is unable to pay. A significant loss of an accounts receivable would have a negative impact on our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

Our leverage may impair our financial condition or limit our ability to operate our businesses.

We currently have a significant amount of debt. As of December 31, 2008, our total consolidated debt was approximately $605.6 million, which relates to our 6.5% Senior Secured Notes and our revolving credit facility. Our level of debt could have important consequences to our stockholders and creditors, including:

·	making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our liabilities;

·	increasing our vulnerability to adverse general economic and industry conditions;

·	requiring that a portion of our cash flows from operations be used for the payment of interest on our debt, which reduces our ability to use our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, dividends on our common stock, acquisitions or general corporate requirements;

·	limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or general corporate requirements;

·	limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and

·	placing us at a competitive disadvantage relative to other less leveraged competitors.

In addition to our indebtedness, we are party to various lease and other agreements pursuant to which, along with our indebtedness, we are committed to pay approximately $109.2 million in 2009. Our ability to make payments on and refinance our debt, and to fund planned capital expenditures, depends on our future ability to generate cash flow. To some extent, this is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. In addition, our ability to borrow funds under our subsidiaries’ credit facilities in the future will, in some instances, depend in part on these subsidiaries’ ability to maintain specified financial ratios and satisfy certain financial covenants contained in the applicable credit agreement. In this regard, we currently believe it is probable that one of our required financial ratios associated with our European credit facility will not be maintained at some point during 2009, most likely commencing at March 31, 2009. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity – Outstanding Debt Obligations and Borrowing Availability.”

Our business may not generate cash flows from operating activities sufficient to enable us to pay our debts when they become due and to fund our other liquidity needs. As a result, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our debt before maturity. We may not be able to refinance any of our debt in a timely manner on favorable terms, if at all in the current credit markets. Any inability to generate sufficient cash flows or to refinance our debt on favorable terms could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

We currently operate four TiO2 facilities, and an ilmenite mine at the following locations. We own all such facilities, unless otherwise indicated.

Location	Description
Leverkusen, Germany (1)	TiO2 production, chloride and sulfate process, co-products
Nordenham, Germany	TiO2 production, sulfate process, co-products
Langerbrugge, Belgium	TiO2 production, chloride process, co-products, titanium chemicals products
Fredrikstad, Norway (2)	TiO2 production, sulfate process, co-products
Hauge i Dalane, Norway (3)	Ilmenite mine

(1)

The Leverkusen facility is located within an extensive manufacturing complex owned by Bayer AG. We own the Leverkusen facility, which represents about one-half of our current Ti02 production capacity, but we lease the land under the facility from Bayer AG under a long term agreement which expires in 2050. Lease payments are periodically negotiated with Bayer for periods of at least two years at a time. Bayer provides some raw materials, including chlorine, auxiliary and operating materials, utilities and services necessary to operate the Leverkusen facility under separate supplies and services agreements.

(2)

The Fredrikstad plant is located on public land and is leased until 2013, with an option to extend the lease for an additional 50 years.

(3)

We are currently excavating a second mine located near our current mine in Norway.

Our corporate headquarters is located in Dallas, Texas. We have under lease various corporate and administrative offices located in the U.S. and various sales offices located in France, the Netherlands and the U.K. The roads leading to our facilities are generally maintained by the applicable local government and are adequate for our purposes.

Information on our properties is incorporated by reference to Item 1: Business, Manufacturing and Operations above. See Note 12 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for information on our leases.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We are involved in various environmental, contractual, intellectual property, product liability and other claims and disputes incidental to our business. Information called for by this Item is incorporated by reference to Note 12 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

Omitted pursuant to the General Instruction I of Form 10-K.

PART II

ITEM 5.

MARKET FOR OUR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

All of our common stock is held by Kronos. There is no established public trading market for our common stock. The indenture governing our 6.5% Senior Secured Notes Due 2013 limits our ability to pay dividends or make other restricted payments, as defined. The aggregate amount of dividends and other restricted payments since June 2002 may not exceed 75% of the aggregate consolidated net income, as defined in the indenture, plus $25 million. At December 31, 2008, there was no availability for dividends or other restricted payments, as defined, therefore we currently do not expect to pay dividends or make other restricted payments as permitted by the indenture. Declaration and payment of future dividends is discretionary and the amount thereof is dependent upon our results of operations, financial condition, contractual limitations, cash requirements for our businesses and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors. See Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

We paid $50.2 million of dividends to Kronos in 2006, $34.2 million in 2007, and $34.9 million in 2008.

ITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and Item 7 - "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."

	Years ended December 31,
	2004			2005			2006(2)			2007			2008
	(In millions, except ratios)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales	$	808.0		$	850.9		$	914.2		$	946.1		$	952.9
Gross margin		197.8			238.4			223.0			196.4			170.4
Income from operations		96.9			138.2			107.4			78.7			45.1
Net income (loss)		325.6			60.3			73.7			(58.8	)		21.3

BALANCE SHEET DATA (at year end):
Total assets	$	985.2		$	955.3		$	1,080.6		$	1,103.1		$	1,053.5
Long-term debt including current maturities		533.2			453.8			529.8			590.8			605.6
Stockholder’s equity		207.7			183.3			211.5			181.4			137.3

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW DATA:
Net cash provided (used) by:
Operating activities	$	142.3		$	92.7		$	62.5		$	84.9		$	1.0
Investing activities		(34.2	)		(35.8	)		(47.1	)		(42.5	)		(61.7	)
Financing activities		(129.9	)		(8.5	)		(31.1	)		(34.0	)		7.2

TiO2 OPERATING STATISTICS:
Sales volume*		336			326			353			348			317
Production volume*		328			335			348			350			350
Production rate as a percentage of capacity	Full			Full			Full				98	%		97	%

OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (unaudited) (1)		2.6			3.6			2.0			2.6			1.5

__________________________________

*	Metric tons in thousands

(1)

Fixed charges represents, as applicable, the sum of (i) total interest expense and (ii) the interest component of rent expense (calculated as one-third of rent expense). Earnings represents, as applicable, the sum of (i) fixed charges, (ii) income before income taxes and (iii) amortization of capitalized interest.

(2)	We adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158 effective December 31, 2006. See Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 7.

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Business overview

We are a leading global producer and marketer of value-added TiO2. TiO2 is used for a variety of manufacturing applications, including plastics, paints, paper and other industrial products. For 2008, approximately 80% of our sales volumes was sold into European markets. We believe we are the second largest producer of TiO2 in Europe with an estimated 19% share of European TiO2 sales volumes. Our production facilities are located throughout Europe.

We consider TiO2 to be a “quality-of-life” product, with demand affected by gross domestic product and overall economic conditions in our markets located in various regions of the world. Over the long-term, we expect demand for TiO2 to grow by 2% to 3% per year. This is consistent with our expectations for the long-term growth in gross domestic product. However, demand for TiO2 in any interim or annual period may not change in the same proportion as the change in GDP even if we and our competitors maintain consistent shares of the worldwide market. This is due in part to relative changes in the TiO2 inventory levels of our customers. We believe that our customers’ inventory levels are partly influenced by their expectation for future changes in the market TiO2 selling prices.

The factors having the most impact on our reported income from operations are:

·	TiO2 selling prices,

·	currency exchange rates (particularly the exchange rate for the U.S. dollar relative to the euro) and the Norwegian krone to the euro,

·	our TiO2 sales and production volumes, and

·	manufacturing costs, particularly maintenance and energy-related expenses.

Our key performance indicators are our TiO2 average selling prices, and our level of TiO2 sales and production volumes. TiO2 selling prices generally follow industry trends and prices will increase or decrease generally as a result of competitive market pressures.

In addition, our effective income tax rate in 2006, 2007 and 2008 has been impacted by certain favorable and unfavorable developments.

Executive summary

We reported net income of $21.3 million in 2008 compared to net loss of $58.8 million in 2007. The $80.1 million increase in net income from 2007 to 2008 is due primarily to the net effect of (i) an income tax benefit we recognized in 2008, (ii) lower income from operations in 2008 resulting principally from lower sales volumes and higher raw material and energy costs and (iii) an income tax charge we recognized in 2007 associated with the adjustment of certain German income tax attributes.

We reported a net loss of $58.8 million in 2007 compared to net income of $73.7 million in 2006. The $132.5 million decrease in net income from 2006 to 2007 is due primarily to the net effect of (i) lower income from operations in 2007, (ii) the unfavorable effect of certain provisions for income taxes recognized in 2007, (iii) the favorable effect of certain income tax benefits recognized in 2006 and (iv) a charge in 2006 from the redemption of our 8.875% Senior Secured Notes.

Net income for 2008 includes a $7.2 million income tax benefit related to a European Court ruling that resulted in the favorable resolution of certain income tax issues in Germany and an increase in the amount of our German corporate and trade tax net operating loss carryforwards.

Net income for 2007 includes (i) a non-cash charge of $90.8 million relating to a decrease in our net deferred income tax asset in Germany resulting from the reduction in their income tax rates, (ii) a non-cash charge of $8.7 million related to the adjustment of certain German income tax attributes and (iii) a $.7 million income tax benefit resulting from a net reduction in our reserve for uncertain tax positions.

Net income for 2006 includes (i) a charge related to the prepayment of our 8.875% Senior Secured Notes of $22.3 million ($14.5 million, net of tax benefit) and (ii) a net income tax benefit of $33.8 million related to the net effect of the withdrawal of certain income tax assessments previously made by the Belgian and Norwegian tax authorities and the resolution of certain income tax issues related to our German and Belgian operations.

Each of these items is more fully discussed below and/or in the Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

We currently expect income from operations will be lower in 2009 compared to 2008 primarily as a result of higher production costs due in part to significantly reduced production volumes and the resulting unabsorbed fixed production costs and unfavorable currency effects. We currently expect to report a net loss in 2009 as compared to reporting net income in 2008 due to lower expected income from operations in 2009.

Critical accounting policies and estimates

The accompanying "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" is based upon our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reported period. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to the recoverability of long-lived assets, pension benefit obligations and the underlying actuarial assumptions related thereto, the realization of deferred income tax assets and accruals for, litigation, income tax and other contingencies. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions which we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Actual results may differ significantly from previously-estimated amounts under different assumptions or conditions.

The following critical accounting policies affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements:

Long-lived assets. We recognize an impairment charge associated with our long-lived assets, including property and equipment, whenever we determine that recovery of such long-lived asset is not probable. Such determination is made in accordance with the applicable GAAP requirements of SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, and is based upon, among other things, estimates of the amount of future net cash flows to be generated by the long-lived asset and estimates of the current fair value of the asset. Significant judgment is required in estimating such cash flows. Adverse changes in such estimates of future net cash flows or estimates of fair value could result in an inability to recover the carrying value of the long-lived asset, thereby possibly requiring an impairment charge to be recognized in the future. We do not assess our property and equipment for impairment unless certain impairment indicators specified in SFAS No. 144 are present. We did not evaluate any long-lived assets for impairment during 2008 because no such impairment indicators were present.

Pension plans. We maintain various defined benefit pension plans. The amounts recognized as defined benefit pension expenses, and the reported amounts of pension asset and accrued pension costs, are actuarially determined based on several assumptions, including discount rates, expected rates of returns on plan assets and expected health care trend rates. Variances from these actuarially assumed rates will result in increases or decreases, as applicable, in the recognized pension obligations, pension expenses and funding requirements. These assumptions are more fully described below under “Defined Benefit Pension Plans.”

Income taxes. Deferred taxes are recognized for future tax effects of temporary differences between financial and income tax reporting in accordance with the recognition criteria of SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred income tax assets to the amount that is believed to be realized under the more-likely-than-not recognition criteria. While we have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance, it is possible that in the future we may change our estimate of the amount of the deferred income tax assets that would more-likely-than-not be realized in the future, resulting in an adjustment to the deferred income tax asset valuation allowance that would either increase or decrease, as applicable, reported net income in the period such change in estimate was made. For example, we have substantial net operating loss carryforwards in Germany (the equivalent of $817 million for German corporate purposes and $229 million for German trade tax purposes at December 31, 2008). At December 31, 2008, we have concluded that no deferred income tax asset valuation allowance is required to be recognized with respect to such carryforwards, principally because (i) such carry forwards have an indefinite carryforward period, (ii) we have generated cumulative income in Germany over the most recent three-year period and consequently utilized a portion of such carryforwards during that period and (iii) we currently expect to utilized the remainder of such carryforwards over the long term. However, prior to the complete utilization of such carryforwards, particularly if the current economic downturn continues and we were to generate operating losses in our German operations for an extended period of time, it is possible that we might conclude the benefit of such carryforwards would no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition criteria, at which point we would be required to recognize a valuation allowance against some or all of the then-remaining tax benefit associated with the carryforwards.

We record a reserve for uncertain tax positions in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertain Tax Positions, for tax positions where we believe it is more-likely-than-not our position will not prevail with the applicable tax authorities. It is possible that in the future we may change our assessment regarding the probability that our tax positions will prevail that would require an adjustment to the amount of our reserve for uncertain tax positions that could either increase or decrease, as applicable, reported net income in the period the change in assessment was made.

In addition, we make an evaluation at the end of each reporting period as to whether or not some or all of the undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries are permanently reinvested (as that term is defined in GAAP). While we may have concluded in the past that some of such undistributed earnings are permanently reinvested, facts and circumstances can change in the future, and it is possible that a change in facts and circumstances, such as a change in the expectation regarding the capital needs of our non-U.S. subsidiaries, could result in a conclusion that some or all of such undistributed earnings are no longer permanently reinvested. In such an event, we would be required to recognize a deferred income tax liability in an amount equal to the estimated incremental U.S. income tax and withholding tax liability that would be generated if all of such previously-considered permanently reinvested undistributed earnings were distributed to the U.S.

Contingencies. We record accruals for legal and other contingencies when estimated future expenditures associated with such contingencies and commitments become probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. However, new information may become available, or circumstances (such as applicable laws and regulations) may change, thereby resulting in an increase or decrease in the amount required to be accrued for such matters (and therefore a decrease or increase in reported net income in the period of such change).

Income from operations is impacted by certain of these significant judgments and estimates, such as allowance for doubtful accounts, reserves for obsolete or unmarketable inventories, impairment of equity method investees and long-lived assets, defined benefit pension plans and loss accruals. In addition, net income (loss) is impacted by the significant judgments and estimates for deferred income tax asset valuation allowances and loss accruals.

Comparison of 2008 to 2007 Results of Operations

	Year ended December 31,
	2007				2008
	(Dollars in millions)

Net sales	$	946.1	100	%	$	952.9		100	%
Cost of sales		749.7	79	%		782.5		82	%
Gross margin		196.4	21	%		170.4		18	%
Other operating income and expenses, net		117.7	13	%		125.3		13	%
Income from operations	$	78.7	8	%	$	45.1		5	%

							Percent
							Change
TiO2 operating statistics:
Sales volumes*		348				317		(9	)%
Production volumes*		350				350		-

Percent change in net sales:
TiO2 product pricing								1	%
TiO2 sales volumes								(9	)%
TiO2 product mix								2	%
Changes in currency exchange rates								7	%

Total								1	%

______________________________

* Thousands of metric tons

Net sales – Net sales increased 1% or $6.8 million for 2008 compared to 2007, primarily due to favorable currency exchange rates, which we estimate increased our net sales for 2008 by approximately $62 million, or 7%, compared to the same period in 2007. Variations in grades of products sold favorably impacted net sales by 2%, along with a 1% increase in average TiO2 selling prices. TiO2 selling prices generally follow industry trends and prices will increase or decrease generally as a result of competitive market pressures. During the second and third quarters of 2008, we and our competitors announced various price increases and surcharges in response to higher operating costs. A portion of these increase announcements were implemented during the second, third and fourth quarters of 2008. The positive impact of currency, product mix and pricing in 2008 were partially offset by a 9% decrease in sales volumes.

Our 9% decrease in sales volumes in 2008 is primarily due to lower sales volumes in all markets as a result of a global weakening of demand due to poor overall economic conditions.

Cost of sales - Cost of sales increased 4% or $32.8 million for 2008, compared to 2007, due to the impact of a 20% or approximately $22 million increase in utility costs (primarily energy costs), an 11% or approximately $32 million increase in raw material costs and currency fluctuations (primarily the euro). The cost of sales as a percentage of net sales increased to 82% in the year ended December 31, 2008 compared to 79% in the same period of 2007 primarily due to the net effects of higher operating costs and slightly higher average selling prices.

Income from operations – Income from operations in 2008 declined by 43% to $45.1 million compared to 2007; income from operations as a percentage of net sales decreased to 5% in 2008 from 8% for 2007. The decline in income from operations is driven by the decline in gross margin, which decreased to 18% in 2008 compared to 21% in 2007. While our average TiO2 selling prices were higher in 2008, our gross margin decreased primarily because of lower sales volumes and higher manufacturing costs, which more than offset the impact of higher sales prices and the positive effect of changes in currency rates. We estimate the positive effect of changes in currency exchange rates increased income from operations by approximately $8 million when comparing 2008 to 2007.

As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses were relatively consistent at approximately 13% for both 2008 and 2007.

Other non-operating income and expense, net – Interest expense increased $2.9 million from $37.8 million for 2007 to $40.7 million for 2008 due to unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates in 2008 compared to 2007 and increased borrowings in 2008 (primarily under our revolving credit facility). The interest expense we recognize will vary with fluctuations in the euro exchange rate.

Provision (benefit) for income taxes – Our income tax provision was $1.4 million for 2008 compared to $122.4 million for 2007. See Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a tabular reconciliation of our statutory income tax expense to our actual tax expense. Some of the more significant items impacting this reconciliation are summarized below.

Our income tax expense for 2008 includes:

·	a non-cash benefit of $7.2 million relating to a European Court ruling that resulted in the favorable resolution of certain income tax issues in Germany and an increase in the amount of our German corporate and trade tax net operating loss carryforwards.

Our income tax expense for 2007 includes:

·	a non-cash charge of $90.8 million relating to a decrease in our net deferred income tax asset in Germany resulting from the reduction in its income tax rates;

·	a non-cash charge of $8.7 million relating to the adjustment of certain German income tax attributes; and

·	a non-cash income tax benefit of $.7 million resulting from a net reduction in our reserve for uncertain tax positions.

Comparison of 2007 to 2006 Results of Operations

	Year ended December 31,
	2006				2007
	(Dollars in millions)

Net sales	$	914.2	100	%	$	946.1		100	%
Cost of sales		691.2	76	%		749.7		79	%
Gross margin		223.0	24	%		196.4		21	%
Other operating income and expenses, net		115.6	13	%		117.7		13	%
Income from operations	$	107.4	11	%	$	78.7	8		%

							Percent
							Change
TiO2 operating statistics:
Sales volumes*		353				348		(1	)%
Production volumes*		348				350		1	%

Percent change in net sales:
TiO2 product pricing								(3	)%
TiO2 sales volumes								(1	)%
TiO2 product mix								1	%
Changes in currency exchange rates								7	%

Total								4	%

___________________________

* Thousands of metric tons

Net sales – Net sales increased 4% or $31.9 million for 2007 compared to 2006, primarily due to favorable currency exchange rates offset somewhat by a 1% decrease in TiO2 sales volumes and a 3% decrease in average TiO2 selling prices. TiO2 selling prices generally follow industry trends and prices will increase or decrease generally as a result of competitive market pressures. We estimate the favorable effect of changes in currency exchange rates increased our net sales for 2007 by approximately $63 million, or 7%, compared to the same period in 2006.

Our 1% decrease in sales volumes for 2007 is primarily due to lower sales volumes in North America.

Cost of sales - Cost of sales increased 8% or $58.5 million for 2007, compared to 2006, due to lower sales volumes, higher production volumes, and a 2% increase in raw materials costs (approximately $5 million). The cost of sales as a percentage of net sales increased to 79% in the year ended December 31, 2007, compared to 76% in the same period of 2006 primarily due to the net effects of lower average selling prices, higher other manufacturing costs (including maintenance) of approximately $2 million, lower utility costs of approximately $3 million and slightly higher production volumes.

The negative impact of the increase in maintenance costs and raw materials was somewhat offset by record production levels. TiO2 production volumes increased 1% for 2007 compared to 2006, which favorably impacted our income from operations comparisons. Our operating rates were near full capacity in both periods. Our TiO2 production volume in 2007 was a record for us for the fifth consecutive year. The increase in production volumes for 2007 was aided by enhancing our processes and our continued debottlenecking activities.

Income from operations – Income from operations in 2007 declined by 27% to $78.7 million compared to 2006; income from operations as a percentage of net sales decreased to 8% in 2007 from 11% for 2006. The decline in income from operations is driven by the decline in gross margin, which decreased to 21% in 2007 compared to 24% in 2006. Our gross margin decreased primarily because of lower average TiO2 selling prices, lower sales volumes and higher manufacturing costs, which more than offset the impact of higher production volumes.

As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses were relatively consistent at approximately 13% for 2007 and 2006.

Other non-operating income and expense, net – In 2006, we issued our euro 400 million principal amount of 6.5% Senior Secured Notes, and used the proceeds to redeem our euro 375 million principal amount of 8.875% Senior Secured Notes. As a result of our prepayment of the 8.875% Senior Secured Notes, we recognized a $22.3 million pre-tax interest charge ($14.5 million net of income tax benefit) in 2006 for the prepayment of the notes, representing (1) the call premium on the notes, (2) the write-off of deferred financing costs and (3) the write off of the existing unamortized premium on the notes. See Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Interest expense decreased $3.1 million from $40.9 million for 2006 to $37.8 million for 2007 due to the issuance of the 6.5% Senior Secured Notes during 2006, which was partially offset by unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates in 2007 compared to 2006. The interest expense we recognize will vary with fluctuations in the euro exchange rate.

Provision (benefit) for income taxes – Our income tax provision was $122.4 million for 2007 compared to an income tax benefit of $7.7 million for 2006. See Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a tabular reconciliation of the statutory tax expense to our actual tax expense. Some of the more significant items impacting this reconciliation are summarized below.

Our income tax expense for 2007 includes:

·	a non-cash charge of $90.8 million relating to a decrease in our net deferred income tax asset in Germany resulting from the reduction in its income tax rates;

·	a non-cash charge of $8.7 million relating to the adjustment of certain German income tax attributes; and

·	a non-cash income tax benefit of $.7 million resulting from a net reduction in our reserve for uncertain tax positions.

Our income tax benefit in 2006 includes:

·	an income tax benefit of $21.7 million resulting from a favorable resolution of certain income tax audits in Germany that resulted in an increase in the amount of our German trade tax net operating loss carryforward;

·	an income tax benefit of $10.7 million resulting from the reduction in our income tax contingency reserves related to favorable developments with income tax audits in Belgium, Norway and Germany; and

·	an income tax benefit of $1.4 million relating to the favorable resolution of certain income tax audit issues in Germany and Belgium.

Effects of currency exchange rates

All of our operations and assets are located outside the United States (in Germany, Belgium and Norway). The majority of our sales are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, principally the euro and other major European currencies. A portion of our sales generated from our operations are denominated in the U.S. dollar. Certain raw materials used worldwide, primarily titanium-containing feedstocks, are purchased in U.S. dollars, while labor and other production costs are purchased primarily in local currencies. Consequently, the translated U.S. dollar value of our sales and operating results are subject to currency exchange rate fluctuations which may favorably or unfavorably impact reported earnings and may affect the comparability of period-to-period operating results. Overall, fluctuations in currency exchange rates had the following effects on our sales and income from operations for the periods indicated.

	Year ended December 31,
	2007 vs. 2006		2007 vs. 2008
	Increase (decrease), in millions
Impact on:
Net sales	$	63	$	62
Income from operations		-		8

Outlook

We currently expect income from operations will be lower in 2009 compared to 2008 primarily from higher production costs resulting in part from significantly reduced production volumes and the resulting unabsorbed fixed production costs and unfavorable currency effects. We currently expect to report a net loss in 2009 as compared to reporting net income in 2008 due to lower expected income from operations in 2009.

In response to the worldwide economic slowdown and weak consumer confidence, we are significantly reducing our production volumes in 2009 in order to reduce our finished goods inventory and improve our liquidity. While overall industry pigment demand is expected to be lower in 2009 as compared to 2008 as a result of worldwide economic conditions, we currently expect our sales volumes in 2009 will be slightly higher as compared to 2008 as we expect to gain market share following anticipated reductions in industry capacity due to competitors’ permanent plant shutdowns. We believe average selling prices in 2009 will decline from year-end levels during the first half of the year but will rise during the second half of 2009 which should result in slightly higher average worldwide TiO2 selling prices for the year. To mitigate the negative impact of our significantly reduced production volumes, we are reducing our operating costs where possible, such as; reducing maintenance expenditures, research and development expenditures and personnel costs.

Our expectations as to the future of the TiO2 industry are based upon a number of factors beyond our control, including worldwide growth of gross domestic product, competition in the marketplace, solvency and continued operation of competitors, unexpected or earlier than expected capacity additions or reductions and technological advances. If actual developments differ from our expectations, our results of operations could be unfavorably affected.

We believe that our annual attainable production capacity for 2009 is approximately 362,000 metric tons. We expect our production volumes in 2009 will be significantly lower than our attainable capacity. We currently expect we will operate at 75% to 85% of our attainable production capacity in 2009. Our expected capacity utilization levels could be adjusted upwards or downwards to match changes in demand for our product.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Consolidated cash flows

Operating activities

Trends in cash flows as a result of our operating activities (excluding the impact of significant asset dispositions and relative changes in assets and liabilities) are generally similar to trends in our earnings.

Our cash flows from operating activities provided $1.0 million for 2008, compared to $84.9 million for 2007. This decrease was due primarily to the net effects of the following items:

·	lower income from operations in 2008 of $33.6 million;

·	lower cash paid for income taxes in 2008 of $8.9 million, in part due to lower taxable income and the receipt of tax refunds;

·	higher cash paid for interest in 2008 of $3.4 million, as a result of increased borrowing and the effects of currency exchange rates on the annual interest payments on our 6.5% senior secured notes; and

·	a lower amount of net cash used from relative changes in our inventories, receivables, payables and accruals of $40.2 million in 2008 due primarily to relative changes in our inventory levels, as discussed below; and

·	higher depreciation expense of $4.6 million in 2008, primarily as a result of the effects of currency exchange rates.

Our cash flows from operating activities provided $84.9 million for 2007, compared to $62.5 million for 2006. This increase was due primarily to the net effects of the following items:

·	lower income from operations in 2007 of $28.7 million;

·	lower cash paid for income taxes in 2007 of $15.6 million, in part due to the net payment of $19.2 million in 2006 associated with the settlement of prior year income tax audits;

·	higher cash paid for interest in 2007 of $4.7 million, primarily as a result of the effects of foreign currency exchange rates on the semi annual interest payments on our 6.5% Senior Secured Notes;

·	payment of the $20.9 million call premium in 2006 as a result of the prepayment of our 8.875% Senior Secured Notes, which is required to be included in cash flows from operating activities;

·	a lower amount of net cash used from relative changes in our inventories, receivables, payables and accruals of $6.5 million in 2007 due primarily to relative changes in our inventory levels, as discussed below; and

·	higher depreciation expense of $4.3 million in 2007, primarily as a result of the effects of foreign currency exchange rates.

Changes in working capital are affected by accounts receivable and inventory changes. Our average days sales outstanding (“DSO”) increased to 68 days at December 31, 2008 from 65 days at December 31, 2007 due to the timing of collection on higher accounts receivable balances at the end of 2008. For comparative purposes, our average DSO increased to 65 days at December 31, 2007 from 61 days at December 31, 2006 due to the timing of collections. Our average days sales in inventory (“DSI”) increased from 55 days at December 31, 2007, to 123 days at December 31, 2008, as our sales volumes decreased in 2008 (mostly in the fourth quarter)and our TiO2 production volumes exceeded our TiO2 sales volumes during the last half of 2008. For comparative purposes, our average DSI was at 55 days at December 31, 2006.

Investing activities

Our capital expenditures were $61.7 million in 2008, $42.4 million in 2007 and $47.1 million in 2006. Capital expenditures are primarily for improvements and upgrades to existing facilities. Our capital expenditures during the past three years include an aggregate of approximately $21.2 million ($11.8 million in 2008) for our ongoing environmental protection and compliance programs.

Financing activities

During 2008, we:

·	made net borrowings of $44.4 million on our European credit facility.

During 2006, we:

·	issued euro 400 million principal amount of 6.5% Notes at 99.306% ($498.5 million when issued); and

·	redeemed our euro 375 million principal amount of 8.875% Senior Secured Notes ($470.5 million when redeemed) using the proceeds from the issuance of the 6.5% Notes.

We paid dividends of $34.9 million in 2008, $34.2 million in 2007 and $50.2 million in 2006. The declaration and payment of future dividends is discretionary, and the amount, if any, will be dependent upon our results of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

Outstanding debt obligations and borrowing availability

At December 31, 2008, our consolidated debt was comprised of:

·	euro 400 million principal amount of our 6.5% Senior Secured Notes ($560.0 million) due in 2013;

·	euro 30.0 million ($42.2 million) under our revolving credit facility which matures in May 2011; and

·	Approximately $3.4 million of other indebtedness.

Certain of our credit agreements contain provisions which could result in the acceleration of indebtedness prior to its stated maturity for reasons other than defaults for failure to comply with applicable covenants. For example, certain credit agreements allow the lender to accelerate the maturity of the indebtedness upon a change of control (as defined in the agreement) of the borrower. In addition, certain credit agreements could result in the acceleration of all or a portion of the indebtedness following a sale of assets outside the ordinary course of business. None of our credit agreements contain provisions that link the debt payment rates or schedules or borrowing availability to our credit rating. We are in compliance with all of our debt covenants at December 31, 2008. During the second quarter of 2008, we amended our revolving bank credit facility to extend the maturity date by three years to May 2011. See Note 6 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Certain of our credit facilities require us to maintain specified financial ratios and satisfy certain financial covenants contained in the applicable credit agreement. While we were in compliance with all of our debt covenants at December 31, 2008, we currently believe it is probable that one of our required financial ratios associated with our European credit facility (the ratio of net secured debt to earnings before income taxes, interest and depreciation, as defined) will not be maintained at some point during 2009, most likely commencing at March 31, 2009. In 2009, we have begun to reduce our production levels in response to the current economic environment, which we anticipate will favorably impact our liquidity and cash flows by reducing our inventory levels. However, the reduced capacity utilization levels will negatively impact our 2009 results of operations due to the resulting unabsorbed fixed production costs that will be charged to expense as incurred. As a result, we may not be able to maintain the required financial ratio throughout 2009.

We have begun discussions with the lenders to amend the terms of the existing European credit facility to eliminate the requirement to maintain this financial ratio until at least March 31, 2010. While we believe it is possible we can obtain such an amendment to eliminate this financial ratio through at least March 31, 2010, there is no assurance that such amendment will be obtained, or if obtained that the requirement to maintain the financial ratio will be eliminated (or waived, in the event the lenders would only agree to a waiver and not an amendment to eliminate the covenant itself) through at least March 31, 2010. Any such amendment or waiver which we might obtain could increase our future borrowing costs, either from a requirement that we pay a higher rate of interest on outstanding borrowings or pay a fee to the lenders as part of agreeing to such amendment or waiver.

In the event we would not be successful in obtaining the amendment or waiver of the existing European credit facility to eliminate the requirement to maintain the financial ratio, we would seek to refinance such facility with a new group of lenders with terms that did not include such financial covenant or, if required, we will use our existing liquidity resources (which could include funds provided by our affiliates). While there is no assurance that we would be able to refinance the existing European credit facility with a new group of lenders, we believe these other sources of liquidity available to us would allow us to refinance the existing European credit facility. If required, we believe by undertaking one or more of these steps we will be successful in maintaining sufficient liquidity to meet our future obligations including operations, capital expenditures and debt service for the next 12 months.

Our assets consist primarily of investments in operating subsidiaries, and our ability to service parent level obligations, including the Senior Secured Notes, depends in large part upon the distribution of earnings of our subsidiaries, whether in the form of dividends, advances or payments on account of intercompany obligations or otherwise. None of our subsidiaries have guaranteed the Senior Secured Notes, although we have pledged 65% of the common stock or other ownership interests of certain of our first-tier operating subsidiaries as collateral of the Senior Secured Notes. The terms of the indenture governing the Senior Secured Notes limits our ability to pay dividends and make other restricted payments. At December 31, 2008, the maximum amount of dividends and other restricted payments that we could make (the “Restricted Payment Basket”) was approximately $52 million. However, the indenture currently prohibits us from utilizing such Restricted Payment Basket because we have not met a specified financial ratio; such prohibition will continue until such time as we meet the specified financial ratio.

Liquidity

Our primary source of liquidity on an ongoing basis is cash flows from operating activities which is generally used to (i) fund working capital expenditures, (ii) repay any short-term indebtedness incurred for working capital purposes and (iii) provide for the payment of dividends. From time-to-time we will incur indebtedness, generally to (i) fund short-term working capital needs, (ii) refinance existing indebtedness or (iii) fund major capital expenditures or the acquisition of other assets outside the ordinary course of business. We will also from time-to-time sell assets outside the ordinary course of business, and use the proceeds to (i) repay existing indebtedness, (ii) make investments in marketable and other securities, (iii) fund major capital expenditures or the acquisition of other assets outside the ordinary course of business or (iv) pay dividends.

Pricing within the TiO2 industry is cyclical, and changes in industry economic conditions significantly impact earnings and operating cash flows. Changes in TiO2 pricing, production volumes and customer demand, among other things, could significantly affect our liquidity.

We routinely evaluate our liquidity requirements, alternative uses of capital, capital needs and availability of resources in view of, among other things, our dividend policy, our debt service and capital expenditure requirements and estimated future operating cash flows. As a result of this process, we have in the past and may in the future seek to reduce, refinance, repurchase or restructure indebtedness, raise additional capital, repurchase shares of our common stock, modify our dividend policy, restructure ownership interests, sell interests in our subsidiaries or other assets, or take a combination of these steps or other steps to manage our liquidity and capital resources. Such activities have in the past and may in the future involve related companies. In the normal course of our business, we may investigate, evaluate, discuss and engage in acquisition, joint venture, strategic relationship and other business combination opportunities in the TiO2 industry. In the event of any future acquisition or joint venture opportunity, we may consider using then-available liquidity, issuing our equity securities or incurring additional indebtedness.

At December 31, 2008, we had credit available under all of our existing credit facilities of approximately $70.3 million. Based upon our expectation for the TiO2 industry and anticipated demands on cash resources, we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our future obligations including operations, capital expenditures and debt service for the next 12 months. In this regard, see the discussion above in “Outstanding debt obligations and borrowing availability.” If actual developments differ from our expectations, our liquidity could be adversely affected.

Capital expenditures

We intend to spend approximately $24 million to maintain and improve our existing facilities during 2009, including approximately $1 million in the area of environmental protection and compliance. The majority of our expenditures in 2009 will be to maintain our facilities. We have lowered our planned capital expenditures in 2009 in response to the current economic conditions. Capital spending for 2009 is expected to be funded through cash on hand or borrowing on existing credit facilities.

Off-balance sheet financing

Other than operating lease commitments disclosed in Note 12 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, we are not party to any material off-balance sheet financing arrangements.

Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted marketable debt securities

At December 31, 2008, we had current cash and cash equivalents aggregating $10.8 million, had current restricted cash equivalents of $1.5 million and noncurrent restricted marketable debt securities of $3.5 million.

Related party transactions

We are party to certain transactions with related parties. See Note 11 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. It is our policy to engage in transactions with related parties on terms, in our opinion, no less favorable to us than could be obtained from unrelated parties.

Commitments and contingencies

See Notes 7 and 12 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of certain income tax examinations currently underway and certain legal proceedings.

Recent accounting pronouncements

See Note 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Debt and other contractual commitments

As more fully described in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, we are a party to various debt, lease and other agreements which contractually and unconditionally commit us to pay certain amounts in the future. See Notes 6, 12 and 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. The timing and amount shown for our commitments in the table below are based upon the contractual payment amount and the contractual payment date for such commitments. The following table summarizes such contractual commitments of ours and our consolidated subsidiaries as of December 31, 2008 by the type and date of payment.

	Payment due date
Contractual commitment	2009			2010/2011		2012/2013	2014 and after		Total
	(In millions)

Indebtedness (1)	$	.8	$	43.9	$	560.9	$	-	$	605.6
InInterest on indebtedness (2)		38.6		75.9		48.8		-		163.3
Operating leases		3.9		5.0		3.2		18.9		31.0
Long-term service and other supply contracts (3)		44.7		48.2		10.0		1.8		104.7
Fixed asset acquisitions		17.6		-		-		-		17.6
Estimated tax obligations (4)		3.6		-		-		-		3.6

	$	109.2	$	173.0	$	622.9	$	20.7	$	925.8

(1)

A significant portion of the amount shown for indebtedness relates to our 6.5% Senior Secured Notes ($560.0 million at December 31, 2008). Such indebtedness is denominated in euro. See Item 7A – “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. With respect to the revolving credit facilities the amounts shown for indebtedness are based upon the actual amount outstanding at December 31, 2008.

(2)	The amounts shown for interest for any outstanding variable-rate indebtedness is based upon the December 31, 2008 interest rates and assumes that such variable-rate indebtedness remains outstanding until maturity.

(3)	The amounts shown for the long-term service and other supply contracts primarily pertain to agreements we have entered into with various providers of products or services which help to run our plant facilities (electricity, natural gas, etc.), utilizing December 31, 2008 exchange rates.

(4)	The amount shown for estimated tax obligations is the consolidated amount of income taxes payable at December 31, 2008, which is assumed to be paid during 2009.

The above table does not reflect:

Any amounts that we might pay to fund our defined benefit pension plans, as the timing and amount of any such future fundings are unknown and dependent on, among other things, the future performance of defined benefit pension plan assets and interest rate assumptions. We expect to be required to contribute approximately $14 million to our defined benefit pension plans during 2009. Our defined benefit pension plans are discussed below in greater detail. See Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

·	Any amounts that we might pay related to our asset retirement obligations as the terms and amounts of such future fundings are unknown; and

·	Any amounts that we might pay to settle any of our uncertain tax positions, as the timing and amount of any such future settlements are unknown and dependent on, among other things, the timing of tax audits. See Notes 7 and 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

We occasionally enter into raw material supply arrangements to mitigate the short-term impact of future increases in raw material costs. While these arrangements do not necessarily commit us to a minimum volume of purchases, they generally provide for stated unit prices based upon achievement of specified volume purchase levels. This allows us to stabilize raw material purchase prices to a certain extent, provided the specified minimum monthly purchase quantities are met.

Defined benefit pension plans

We maintain various defined benefit pension plans in Europe. See Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

We account for our defined benefit pension plans using SFAS No. 87, Employer’s Accounting for Pensions, as amended. Under SFAS No. 87, defined benefit pension plan expense and prepaid and accrued pension costs are each recognized based on certain actuarial assumptions, principally the assumed discount rate, the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets and the assumed increase in future compensation levels.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans. SFAS No. 158 requires the recognition of an asset or liability for the over or under funded status of each of our individual defined benefit pension plans on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. This standard does not change the existing recognition and measurement requirements that determine the amount of periodic benefit cost we recognize in net income. We adopted the asset and liability recognition and disclosure requirements of this standard effective December 31, 2006 on a prospective basis, in which we recognized through accumulated other comprehensive income all of our prior unrecognized gains and losses and prior service costs or credits, net of tax, as of December 31, 2006.

We recognized consolidated defined benefit pension plan expense of $17.7 million in 2006, $20.0 million in 2007 and $6.9 million in 2008. In the fourth quarter of 2008 we recognized a $6.9 million pension adjustment in connection with the correction of our pension expense previously recognized for 2006 and 2007. See Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. The amount of funding requirements for these defined benefit pension plans is generally based upon applicable regulations (such as ERISA in the U.S.), and will generally differ from pension expense recognized under SFAS No. 87 for financial reporting purposes. Our contributions to all of our plans aggregated $18.5 million in 2006, $17.4 million in 2007 and $15.4 million in 2008.

The discount rates we use for determining defined benefit pension expense and the related pension obligations are based on current interest rates earned on long-term bonds that receive one of the two highest ratings given by recognized rating agencies in the applicable country where the defined benefit pension benefits are being paid. In addition, we receive advice about appropriate discount rates from our third-party actuaries, who may in some cases use their own market indices. The discount rates are adjusted as of each measurement date to reflect then-current interest rates on such long-term bonds. Such discount rates are used to determine the actuarial present value of the pension obligations as of the measurement date, and such discount rates are also used to determine the interest component of defined benefit pension expense for the following year. Prior to December 31, 2007, we used a September 30 measurement date. Effective December 31, 2007, we began using a December 31 measurement date, concurrent with our adoption of the measurement date requirements of SFAS No. 158 effective December 31, 2007. See Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

At December 31, 2008, approximately 80% and 16% of the projected benefit obligations related to our plans in Germany and Norway, respectively. We use several different discount rate assumptions in determining our consolidated defined benefit pension plan obligation and expense. This is because we maintain defined benefit pension plans in several different countries in Europe and the interest rate environment differs from country to country.

We used the following discount rates for our defined benefit pension plans:

	Discount rates used for:
	Obligations at December 31, 2006 and expense in 2007			Obligations at December 31, 2007 and expense in 2008			Obligations at December 31, 2008 and expense in 2009

Germany		4.5	%		5.5	%		5.8	%
Norway		4.8	%		5.5	%		5.8	%

The assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets represents the estimated average rate of earnings expected to be earned on the funds invested or to be invested in the plans’ assets provided to fund the benefit payments inherent in the projected benefit obligations. Defined benefit pension expense each year is based upon the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets for each plan and the actual fair value of the plan assets as of the beginning of the year. Differences between the expected return on plan assets for a given year and the actual return are deferred and amortized over future periods based either upon the expected average remaining service life of the active plan participants (for plans for which benefits are still being earned by active employees) or the average remaining life expectancy of the inactive participants (for plans for which benefits are not still being earned by active employees).

At December 31, 2008, approximately 74% and 22% of the plan assets related to our plans in Germany and Norway, respectively. We use several different long-term rates of return on plan asset assumptions in determining our consolidated defined benefit pension plan expense. This is because we maintain defined benefit pension plans in several different countries in Europe and the plan assets in different countries are invested in a different mix of investments and the long-term rates of return for different investments differ from country to country.

In determining the expected long-term rate of return on plan asset assumptions, we consider the long-term asset mix (e.g. equity vs. fixed income) for the assets for each of our plans and the expected long-term rates of return for such asset components. In addition, we receive advice about appropriate long-term rates of return from our third-party actuaries. Such assumed asset mixes are summarized below:

·	In Germany, the composition of our plan assets is established to satisfy the requirements of the German insurance commissioner.

In Norway, we currently have a plan asset target allocation of 14% to equity securities, 64% to fixed income securities and the remainder primarily to cash and liquid investments such as money markets. The expected long-term rate of return for such investments is approximately 9%, 5.0% and 4%, respectively.

Our pension plan weighted average asset allocations by asset category were as follows:

	December 31, 2007						December 31, 2008
	Germany			Norway			Germany			Norway

Equity securities and limited partnerships		23	%		18	%		24	%		14	%
Fixed income securities		48			68			52			83
Real estate		14			-			12			-
Cash, cash equivalents and other		15			14			12			3

Total		100	%		100	%		100	%		100	%

We regularly review our actual asset allocation for each of our plans and will periodically rebalance the investments in each plan to more accurately reflect the targeted allocation when considered appropriate.

Our assumed long-term rates of return on plan assets for 2006, 2007 and 2008 were as follows:

	2006			2007			2008

Germany		5.3	%		5.8	%		5.3	%
Norway		6.5	%		5.5	%		6.1	%

We currently expect to use the same long-term rate of return on plan asset assumptions in 2009 as we used in 2008 for purposes of determining the 2009 defined benefit pension plan expense.

To the extent that a plan’s particular pension benefit formula calculates the pension benefit in whole or in part based upon future compensation levels, the projected benefit obligations and the pension expense will be based in part upon expected increases in future compensation levels. For all of our plans for which the benefit formula is so calculated, we generally base the assumed expected increase in future compensation levels upon average long-term inflation rates for the applicable country.

In addition to the actuarial assumptions discussed above, because we maintain our defined benefit pension plans outside the U.S., the amount of recognized defined benefit pension expense and the amount of net pension liability will vary based upon relative changes in currency exchange rates.

A reduction in the assumed discount rate generally results in an actuarial loss, as the actuarially-determined present value of estimated future benefit payments will increase. Conversely, an increase in the assumed discount rate generally results in an actuarial gain. In addition, an actual return on plan assets for a given year that is greater than the assumed return on plan assets results in an actuarial gain, while an actual return on plan assets that is less than the assumed return results in an actuarial loss. Other actual outcomes that differ from previous assumptions, such as individuals living longer or shorter than assumed in mortality tables which are also used to determine the actuarially-determined present value of estimated future benefit payments, changes in such mortality table themselves or plan amendments, will also result in actuarial losses or gains. Accordingly under GAAP, we do not recognize all of such actuarial gains and losses in earnings currently; instead these amounts are deferred and amortized into income in the future as part of net periodic defined benefit pension cost. However, upon adoption of SFAS No. 158 effective December 31, 2006, these amounts are recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss). In addition, any actuarial gains generated in future periods would reduce the negative amortization effect of any cumulative unrecognized actuarial losses, while any actuarial losses generated in future periods would reduce the favorable amortization effect of any cumulative unrecognized actuarial gains.

During 2008, all of our defined benefit pension plans generated a combined net actuarial loss of approximately $.9 million. This actuarial loss resulted primarily from the general overall increase in the assumed discount rates, offset in part by an assumed rate of return on plan assets in excess of the actual rate of return.

Based on the actuarial assumptions described above and our current expectation for what actual average currency exchange rates will be during 2009, we expect our defined benefit pension expense will approximate $13 million in 2009. In comparison, we expect to be required to contribute approximately $14 million to such plans during 2009.

As noted above, defined benefit pension expense and the amounts recognized as accrued pension costs are based upon the actuarial assumptions discussed above. We believe all of the actuarial assumptions used are reasonable and appropriate. However, if we had lowered the assumed discount rate by 25 basis points for all of our plans as of December 31, 2008, our aggregate projected benefit obligations would have increased by approximately $10 million at that date, and our defined benefit pension expense would be expected to increase by approximately $.1 million during 2009. Similarly, if we lowered the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets by 25 basis points for all of our plans, our defined benefit pension expense would be expected to increase by approximately $.5 million during 2009.

Operations outside the United States

As discussed above, our operations are located outside the United States for which the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar. As a result, our reported amount for assets and liabilities related to our operations, and therefore our consolidated net assets, will fluctuate based upon changes in currency exchange rates. At December 31, 2008, we had substantial net assets denominated in the euro, Norwegian krone and United Kingdom pound sterling.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

General

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates and raw materials prices.

Interest rates

We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, primarily related to our indebtedness. At December 31, 2007 and 2008, most of our aggregate indebtedness was comprised of fixed-rate instruments. The large percentage of fixed-rate debt instruments minimizes earnings volatility that would result from changes in interest rates. The following table presents principal amounts and weighted average interest rates for our aggregate outstanding indebtedness at December 31, 2008. Information shown below for such non-U.S. dollar denominated indebtedness is presented in its U.S. dollar equivalent at December 31, 2008 using exchange rates of 1.4061 U.S. dollars per euro and .1428 U.S. dollars per Norwegian krone. Certain Norwegian krone denominated capital leases totaling $3.4 million in 2008 have been excluded from the table below.

	Amount
Indebtedness	Carrying value		Fair value		Interest rate			Maturity date
	(In millions)

Fixed-rate indebtedness – euro-denominated Senior Secured Notes	$	560.0	$	129.4		6.5	%	2013
Variable rate indebtedness - euro-denominated European Credit facility	$	42.2	$	42.2		4.5	%	2011

At December 31, 2007, euro-denominated fixed rate indebtedness, consisting solely of the 6.5% Senior Secured Notes, aggregated $585.5 million (fair value - $507.7 million) with a weighted-average interest rate of 6.5%. We did not have variable rate indebtedness at December 31, 2007.

Currency exchange rates

We are exposed to market risk arising from changes in foreign currency exchange rates as a result of manufacturing and selling our products worldwide. Earnings are primarily affected by fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the euro, the Norwegian krone and the United Kingdom pound sterling.

As described above, at December 31, 2008, we had the equivalent of $602.2 million of outstanding euro-denominated indebtedness (2007 – the equivalent of $585.5 million of euro-denominated indebtedness). The potential increase in the U.S. dollar equivalent of the principal amount outstanding resulting from a hypothetical 10% adverse change in exchange rates at such date would be approximately $60.5 million at December 31, 2008 (2007 - $58.9 million).

Certain of our sales generated by our non-U.S. operations are denominated in U.S. dollars. We periodically use currency forward contracts to manage a very nominal portion of currency exchange rate risk associated with trade receivables denominated in a currency other than the holder's functional currency or similar exchange rate risk associated with future sales. We have not entered into these contracts for trading or speculative purposes in the past, nor do we currently anticipate entering into such contracts for trading or speculative purposes in the future. In the fourth quarter of 2008 we entered into a series of currency forward contracts and at December 31, 2008 we had currency forward contracts to exchange:

an aggregate $57 million for an equivalent value of Norwegian kroner at exchange rates ranging from kroner 6.91 to kroner 7.18 per U.S. dollar. These contracts with DnB Nor Bank ASA mature from January 2009 through December 2009 at a rate of $.5 million to $2.5 million per month. At December 31, 2008, the actual exchange rate was kroner 7.0 per U.S. dollar.

an aggregate euro 16.4 million for an equivalent value of Norwegian kroner at exchange rates ranging from kroner 8.64 to kroner 9.23 per euro. These contracts with DnB Nor Bank ASA mature from January 2009 through December 2009 at a rate of euro .5 million to euro .7 million per month. At December 31, 2008, the actual exchange rate was kroner 9.7 per euro.

The estimated fair value of such foreign currency forward contracts at December 31, 2008 was a $2.6 million net liability, of which $.3 million is recognized as part of Prepaid Expense and $2.9 million is recognized as part of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheet and a corresponding $2.6 million foreign currency transaction loss in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. To the extent we held such contracts during 2007, we did not use hedge accounting for any of our contracts, and we are not using hedge accounting for any of the contracts we entered into in 2008.

Other

We believe there may be a certain amount of incompleteness in the sensitivity analyses presented above. For example, the hypothetical effect of changes in exchange rates discussed above ignores the potential effect on other variables which affect our results of operations and cash flows, such as demand for our products, sales volumes and selling prices and operating expenses. Accordingly, the amounts presented above are not necessarily an accurate reflection of the potential losses we would incur assuming the hypothetical changes in exchange rates were actually to occur.

The above discussion and estimated sensitivity analysis amounts include forward-looking statements of market risk which assume hypothetical changes in currency exchange rates. Actual future market conditions will likely differ materially from such assumptions. Accordingly, such forward-looking statements should not be considered to be projections by us of future events, gains or losses.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The information called for by this Item is contained in a separate section of this Annual Report. See "Index of Financial Statements and Schedules" (page F-1).

ITEM 9.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain a system of disclosure controls and procedures. The term "disclosure controls and procedures," as defined by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), means controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit to the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Act"), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit to the SEC under the Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions to be made regarding required disclosure. Each of Steven L. Watson, our Chief Executive Officer, and Gregory M. Swalwell, our Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the design and effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2008. Based upon their evaluation, these executive officers have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 31, 2008.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We also maintain internal control over financial reporting. The term “internal control over financial reporting,” as defined by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) means a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP, and includes those policies and procedures that:

·	Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets,

·	Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors, and

·	Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of an unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of assets that could have a material effect on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires us to report on internal control over financial reporting in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008. Our independent registered public accounting firm is also required to audit our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008. In addition, the SEC’s rules do not require our independent registered public accounting firm to issue its attestation until our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

As permitted by the SEC, our assessment of internal control over financial reporting excludes (i) internal control over financial reporting of equity method investees and (ii) internal control over the preparation of our financial statement schedules required by Article 12 of Regulation S-X. However, our assessment of internal control over financial reporting with respect to equity method investees did include controls over the recording of amounts related to our investment that are recorded in the consolidated financial statements, including controls over the selection of accounting methods for our investments, the recognition of equity method earnings and losses and the determination, valuation and recording of our investment account balances.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has been no change to our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Our evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting is based upon the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (commonly referred to as the “COSO” framework). Based on our evaluation under that framework, we have concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2008.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Certifications

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer are also required to, among other things, quarterly file certifications with the SEC regarding the quality of our public disclosures, as required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The certifications for the quarter ended December 31, 2008 have been filed as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Omitted pursuant to the General Instruction I of Form 10-K.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Omitted pursuant to the General Instruction I of Form 10-K.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

Omitted pursuant to the General Instruction I of Form 10-K.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Omitted pursuant to the General Instruction I of Form 10-K.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The following table shows the aggregate fees PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm (“PwC”), has billed or is expected to bill to us and our subsidiaries for services rendered for 2007 and 2008. No fees were billed or are expected to be billed by PwC to us for services performed in 2007 and 2008 for financial information systems design and implementation.

	December 31,
	2007		2008
	(In thousands)

Audit(1)	$	1,386	$	1,346
Audit related(2)		10		1
Tax(3)		19		236

Total	$	1,415	$	1,583

1)	Fees for the following services:

a)	audits of our consolidated year-end financials statements for each year;

b)	reviews of the unaudited quarterly financial statements appearing in our Form 10-Q’s for each of the first three quarters of each year;

c)	consents and assistance with registration statements filed with the Commission;

d)	normally provided statutory or regulatory filings or engagements for each year; and

e)	the estimated out-of-pocket costs PwC incurred in providing all of such services for which we reimburse PwC.

Fees for assurance and related services reasonably related to the audit or review of our financial statements for each year. These services included employee benefit plan audits, accounting consultations and attest services concerning financial accounting and reporting standards and advice concerning internal controls.

3)	Fees for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning services.

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) and (c)

Financial Statements and Schedules

The Registrant

The consolidated financial statements and schedules of the Registrant listed on the accompanying Index of Financial Statements and Schedules (see page F-1) are filed as part of this Annual Report.

Financial Statements of Guarantors

The consolidated financial statements of Kronos Titan GmbH and Kronos Denmark ApS listed on the accompanying Index of Financial Statements and Schedules (see page F-1) are filed as part of this Annual Report pursuant to Rule 3-16 of Regulation S-X. The Registrant is not required to provide any other financial statements pursuant to Rule 3-16 of Regulation S-X.

(b) Exhibits

Included as exhibits are the items listed in the Exhibit Index. We will furnish a copy of any of the exhibits listed below upon payment of $4.00 per exhibit to cover our costs to furnish the exhibits. Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, any instrument defining the rights of holders of long-term debt issues and other agreements related to indebtedness which do not exceed 10% of consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2008 will be furnished to the Commission upon request.

Item No. Exhibit Index

3.1	Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

3.2	Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated March 15, 1989 – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

3.3	Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated January 1, 1999 – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

3.4	Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated February 8, 1999 – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

3.5	Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated December 15, 1999 – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

3.6	Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

4.1	Indenture governing the 6.5% Senior Secured Notes due 2013, dated as of April 11, 2006, between Kronos International, Inc. and The Bank of New York, as

trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.2	Form of certificate of Series A 6.5% Senior Secured Note due 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.3	Form of certificate of Series B 6.5% Senior Secured Note due 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.4	Purchase Agreement dated April 5, 2006 between Kronos International, Inc. and Deutsche Bank AG London (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.5

Registration Rights Agreement dated as of April 11, 2006 between Kronos International, Inc. and Deutsche Bank AG London (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006)

4.6

Collateral Agency Agreement, dated April 11, 2006, among The Bank of New York, U.S. Bank, N.A. and Kronos International, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.7

Security Over Shares Agreement, dated April 11, 2006, between Kronos International, Inc. and The Bank of New York (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.8

Pledge of Shares (shares in Kronos Denmark ApS), dated April 11, 2006, between Kronos International, Inc. and U.S. Bank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

4.9

Pledge Agreement (shares in Societe Industrielle du Titane S.A.), dated April 11, 2006, between Kronos International, Inc. and U.S. Bank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006)

4.10

Share Pledge Agreement (shares in Kronos Titan GmbH), dated April 11, 2006, between Kronos International, Inc. and U.S. Bank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 333-100047) that was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, 2006).

10.1

Euro 80,000,000 Facility Agreement, dated June 25, 2002, among Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V., Kronos Titan A/S and Titania A/S, as borrowers, Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V. and Kronos Norge AS, as guarantors, Kronos Denmark ApS, as security provider, Deutsche Bank AG, as mandated lead arranger, Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as agent and security agent, and KBC Bank NV, as fronting bank, and the financial institutions listed in Schedule 1 thereto, as lenders – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended June 30, 2002.

10.2

First Amendment Agreement, dated September 3, 2004, Relating to a Facility Agreement dated June 25, 2002 among Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V., Kronos Titan AS and Titania A/S, as borrowers, Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V. and Kronos Norge AS, as guarantors, Kronos Denmark ApS, as security provider, with Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., acting as agent – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on on Form 8-K of Kronos Worldwide, Inc. dated November 17, 2004 (File No. 333-119639).

10.3

Second Amendment Agreement Relating to a Facility Agreement dated June 25, 2002 executed as of June 14, 2005 by and among Deutsche Bank AG, as mandated lead arranger, Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A. as agent, the participating lenders, Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V, Kronos Titan AS, Kronos Norge AS, Titania AS and Kronos Denmark ApS – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K dated June 14, 2005. Certain schedules, exhibits, annexes and similar attachments to this Exhibit 10.3 have not been filed; upon request, the Reporting Persons will furnish supplementally to the Commission a copy of any omitted exhibit, annex or attachment.

10.4

Third Amendment Agreement Relating to a Facility Agreement dated June 25, 2002 executed as of May 26, 2008 by and among Deutsche Bank AG, as mandated lead arranger, Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as agent, the participating lenders, Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A.,/N.V, Kronos Titan AS, Kronos Norge AS, Titania AS and Kronos Denmark ApS – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K of Kronos International, Inc. (File No. 333-100047) dated May 26, 2008. Certain schedules, exhibits, annexes and similar attachments to this Exhibit 10.1 have not been files; upon request, the registrant will furnish supplementally to the Commission a copy of any omitted exhibit, annex or attachment.

10.5

Lease Contract, dated June 21, 1952, between Farbenfabriken Bayer Aktiengesellschaft and Titangesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung (German language version and English translation thereof) – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of NL Industries, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 1985.

10.6

Master Technology Exchange Agreement, dated as of October 18, 1993, among Kronos, Inc., Kronos Louisiana, Inc., the Registrant, Tioxide Group Limited and Tioxide Group Services Limited – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended September 30, 1993.

10.7	Intercorporate Services Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2005, among Kronos Worldwide, Inc., Kronos (US), Inc., Kronos International, Inc. and Kronos Canada, Inc.

10.8	Tax Agreement, dated as of May 28, 2002, between Kronos, Inc. and the Registrant – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

10.9	Services Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2004, among Kronos International, Inc., Kronos Europe S.A./N.V., Kronos (US), Inc., Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Denmark ApS, Kronos Canada, Inc., Kronos Limited, Societe Industrielle Du Titane, S.A., Kronos B.V., Kronos Titan AS and Titania AS.

10.10

Form of Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1999, between Kronos, Inc. (formerly known as Kronos (USA), Inc.) and the Registrant – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

10.11

Form of Cross License Agreement, effective as of January 1, 1999, between Kronos Inc. (formerly known as Kronos (USA), Inc.) and the Registrant – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

10.12*

NL Industries, Inc. 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan – incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A of NL Industries, Inc. for the annual meeting of shareholders held on May 6, 1998.

10.13*

Form of Kronos Worldwide, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of Kronos Worldwide, Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form 10 (File No. 001-31763).

10.14*

Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Registrant and the officers and directors of the Registrant – incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).

10.15*

Summary of Consulting arrangement beginning on August 1, 2003, as amended January 14, 2008 between Lawrence A. Wigdor and Kronos Worldwide, inc. – incorporated by reference to Item 1.01 to the Kronos Worldwide, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange commission on January 18, 2008.

10.16

Agency Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2004, among Kronos International, Inc., Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V., Kronos Canada, Inc., Kronos Titan AS and Societe Indutrielle Du Titane, S.A.

10.17

Titanium Dioxide Products and Titanium Chemicals Distribution Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2005, among Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V., Kronos Canada, Inc., Kronos Titan AS, Kronos (US), Inc., Kronos Denmark ApS, Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Limited, Societe Industrielle Du Titane, S.A. and Kronos B.V.

10.18

Raw Material Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of January 1, 2004, among Kronos (US), Inc., Kronos Titan GmbH, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V. and Kronos Canada, Inc.

10.19

Promissory note in the amount of euro 65,000,000, dated as of October 12, 2004 between the Registrant and Kronos Worldwide, Inc.

10.20

Promissory note in the amount of euro 98,094,875, dated as of November 26, 2004 between the Registrant and Kronos Worldwide, Inc.

12.1	Statements of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

31.1	Certification.

31.2	Certification.

32.1	Certification.

___________________________________

*	Management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Kronos International, Inc.

(Registrant)

By:/s/ Steven L. Watson

Steven L. Watson

March 11, 2009

(Chief Executive Officer)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

s/ Andrew Kasprowiak		/s/ Gregory M. Swalwell_______
Andrew Kasprowiak, March 11, 2009		Gregory M. Swalwell, March 11, 2009
(Director)		(Vice President, Finance; Principal Financial Officer)


s/ Dr. Ulfert Fiand		/s/ Klemens Schlueter_
Dr. Ulfert Fiand, March 11, 2009		Klemens Schlueter, March 11, 2009
(Director)		(Director)


		/s/ Tim C. Hafer ______
		Tim C. Hafer, March 11, 2009
		(Vice President, Controller, Principal Accounting Officer)

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Annual Report on Form 10-K

Items 8, 15(a) and 15(c)

Index of Financial Statements and Schedules


Financial Statements	Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm	F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets -
December 31, 2007 and 2008	F-3

Consolidated Statements of Operations -
Year ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008	F-5

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) -
Year ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008	F-6

Consolidated Statements of Stockholder’s Equity -
Year ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008	F-7

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
Year ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008	F-8

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	F-10

Financial Statement Schedule

Schedule I – Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	S-1

Schedules II, III and IV are omitted either because they are not applicable or the required amounts are either not material, or are presented in the Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Other Financial Statements filed pursuant to Rule 3-16 of Regulation S-X

Financial Statements of Kronos Titan GmbH	FA-1

Financial Statements of Kronos Denmark ApS	FB-1

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Stockholder and Board of Directors of Kronos International, Inc.:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of operations, of comprehensive income (loss), of changes in stockholder’s equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Kronos International, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2007 and 2008 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Notes 8 and 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for pension benefit obligations in 2006 and the manner in which it accounts for uncertain tax positions in 2007.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Dallas, Texas

March 11, 2009

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In millions, except share data)

ASSETS	December 31,
	2007		2008


Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	67.0	$	10.8
Restricted cash		1.8		1.5
Accounts and other receivables		168.2		130.9
Receivable from affiliates		1.5		1.2
Inventories		228.9		303.9
Prepaid expenses		3.6		3.0

Total current assets		471.0		451.3

Other assets:
Deferred financing costs, net		8.1		6.8
Restricted marketable debt securities		3.2		3.5
Deferred income taxes		168.7		166.4
Other		.8		1.1

Total other assets		180.8		177.8

Property and equipment:
Land		38.1		35.9
Buildings		177.6		171.9
Equipment		839.5		807.8
Mining properties		89.7		73.9
Construction in progress		40.2		37.9

Total property and equipment		1,185.1		1,127.4

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		733.8		703.0

Net property and equipment		451.3		424.4

Total assets	$	1,103.1	$	1,053.5

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)

(In millions, except share data)

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY	December 31,
	2007			2008

Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	.8		$	.8
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		138.2			134.5
Payable to affiliates		5.6			13.3
Income taxes		9.3			3.6
Deferred income taxes		3.3			4.6

Total current liabilities		157.2			156.8

Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt		590.0			604.8
Deferred income taxes		16.4			13.0
Accrued pension cost		128.0			114.0
Other		30.1			27.6

Total noncurrent liabilities		764.5			759.4

Stockholder’s equity:
Common stock, $100 par value; 100,000 shares authorized; 2,968 shares issued		.3			.3
Additional paid-in capital		1,944.2			1,947.6
Retained deficit		(1,411.5	)		(1,425.1	)
Notes receivable from affiliate		(209.5	)		(214.5	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Currency translation		(80.3	)		(107.9	)
Defined benefit pension plans		(61.8	)		(63.1	)

Total stockholder’s equity		181.4			137.3

Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity	$	1,103.1		$	1,053.5

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 7 and 12)

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In millions)

	Years ended December 31,
	2006			2007			2008

Net sales	$	914.2		$	946.1		$	952.9
Cost of sales		691.2			749.7			782.5

Gross margin		223.0			196.4			170.4

Selling, general and administrative expense		116.8			123.3			130.4
Other operating income (expense):
Currency transaction losses, net		(4.5	)		(3.9	)		(.8	)
Disposition of property and equipment		(1.8	)		(.6	)		(.9	)
Royalty income		7.2			7.2			6.5
Other income		.4			3.0			.4
Other expense		(.1	)		(.1	)		(.1	)

Income from operations		107.4			78.7			45.1

Other income (expense):
Interest income from affiliates		18.8			20.6			17.3
Trade interest income		2.2			2.1			1.0
Other interest income		.8			-			-
Loss on prepayment of debt		(22.3	)		-			-
Interest expense		(40.9	)		(37.8	)		(40.7	)

Income before income taxes		66.0			63.6			22.7

Provision (benefit) for income taxes		(7.7	)		122.4			1.4

Net income (loss)	$	73.7		$	(58.8	)	$	21.3

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(In millions)

	Years ended December 31,
	2006		2007			2008

Net income (loss)	$	73.7	$	(58.8	)	$	21.3

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:

Currency translation		30.5		19.0			(27.6	)

Pension plans:
Amortization of prior service cost and net losses included in periodic pension cost		-		5.1			(.5	)
Net actuarial gain arising during year		-		41.3			(.8	)
Minimum pension liability change		8.2		-			-

		8.2		46.4			(1.3	)

Total other comprehensive income (loss)		38.7		65.4			(28.9	)

Comprehensive income (loss)	$	112.4	$	6.6		$	(7.6	)

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

KRONOS INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY

Years ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008

(In millions)

											Accumulated other
								Notes			comprehensive
			Additional					receivable			_____income (loss)_____						Total
	Common		paid-in		Retained			from			Currency			Pension			stockholder’s
	stock		capital		(deficit)			affiliates			translation			plans			equity

Balance at December 31, 2005	$	.3	$	1,944.2	$	(1,338.1	)	$	(209.5	)	$	(129.8	)	$	(83.7	)	$	183.4

Net income		-		-		73.7			-			-			-			73.7
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax		-		-		-			-			30.5			8.2			38.7
Cash dividends		-		-		(50.2	)		-			-			-			(50.2	)
Change in accounting – asset and liability recognition provisions of SFAS No. 158		-		-		-			-			-			(34.1	)		(34.1	)

Balance at December 31, 2006		.3		1,944.2		(1,314.6	)		(209.5	)		(99.3	)		(109.6	)		211.5

Net loss		-		-		(58.8	)		-			-			-			(58.8	)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax		-		-		-			-			19.0			46.4			65.4
Cash dividends		-		-		(34.2	)		-			-			-			(34.2	)
Change in accounting: