nkt cables realized negative organic growth of 14%, primarily caused by the general economic slowdown that has resulted in a substantial fall of 25% in sales of low voltage products to the building and construction sector. Sales to the high voltage sector and sales of catenary wires particularly, which in 1st quarter 2009 were up by 48% on the same period in 2008, are having positive influence, however. Operating income (EBITDA) measured in standard metal prices was 1.5% for 1st quarter 2009 compared with 10.4% for the same period in 2008. Construction of the new high voltage factory in Cologne is proceeding to plan and pilot production began in April. In January, nkt cables signed a 750 mDKK contract for the supply of high and medium voltage armoured subsea cables, and in March the company signed a conditional joint venture agreement concerning production and sale of high voltage cables in China.