(Archived) Praxair Increases Quarterly Dividend 39% In First Quarter 2006

DANBURY, Conn., January 25, 2006 — The board of directors of Praxair, Inc. (NYSE: PX) has declared a quarterly dividend of 25 cents per share, an increase of 39% over the previous quarter. The dividend is payable on March 15, 2006 to shareholders of record on March 7, 2006.

"Praxair's track record of consistently strong performance in varied economic environments gives us the confidence to make this substantial increase in the dividend as well as demonstrates our continued commitment to deliver increased shareholder value," said Dennis H. Reilley, chairman and chief executive officer.

Praxair is the largest industrial gases company in North and South America, and one of the largest worldwide, with 2005 sales of $7.7 billion. The company produces, sells and distributes atmospheric and process gases, and high-performance surface coatings. More information on Praxair is available on the Internet at www.praxair.com.