BASF puts multibillion-euro chemical complex in China into full operation

German chemicals giant BASF on Thursday put its massive production complex in south China's Guangdong Province into full operation, marking the largest single investment project wholly owned by a German enterprise in China.

With an investment of 8.7 billion euros (about 10 billion U.S. dollars), the integrated site covers about 4 square kilometers in Zhanjiang City of Guangdong, the company said, a move that industry analysts say underscores BASF's long-term commitment to expanding in China as the country continues to promote high-standard opening up.

The complex, known as a Verbund site, has successfully started up 32 production lines and is producing more than 70 products, including basic chemicals, intermediates and specialty chemicals for the transportation, consumer goods, electronics, home and personal care industries.

BASF puts multibillion-euro chemical complex in China into full operation

A freight train and a bus collided in Bangkok, Thailand, on Saturday afternoon, killing at least eight people, local media reported.

At around 15:40, a train collided with a bus at a railway crossing in Ratchathewi District, triggering a fire accompanied by an explosion. Several other cars and motorcycles were also involved.

More than 20 people were injured, according to the Thai transport ministry, as rescuers rushed to the scene to put out the fire and carry out rescue operations.

Deputy Minister of Transport Siripong Angkasakulkiat said in an interview with Thai media that the bus had stopped at the railway crossing due to a red light, preventing the railway barrier from lowering. The freight train was too heavy to brake in time, leading to the collision.

At least 8 dead in train-bus collision in Bangkok