DuPont first-quarter profit increases

DuPont Co, the No 2 US chemical maker, said first-quarter profit excluding some costs rose to 95 cents from 61 cents, as sales volumes gained in most businesses.

The company now expects 2004 earnings before one-time items of $2.10 to $2.30 a share, 10 cents more than a January forecast.

DuPont said quarterly profit improved on strong sales, particularly in agriculture and nutrition. Chief executive Charles Holliday, who announced more than 3,500 job cuts on Monday, has been reducing costs and focusing on more profitable lines after chemicals demand slowed and raw materials costs rose.