Midland, MI. - September 30, 2008 - The Dow Chemical Company recently received the highest rating possible for corporate governance practices from GovernanceMetrics International (GMI), an independent research and ratings agency. Dow was awarded a perfect overall global score of 10. Only one percent of all the companies evaluated received a score of 10. This year 42 companies, including Dow, out of the 4,200 companies assessed received a best-in-class rating.

"As we have seen demonstrated with recent headlines, now more than ever it is important for companies to exercise prudent judgment and responsible actions -- which is precisely why we place such a priority on corporate governance within Dow," said Andrew Liveris, Dow Chairman and CEO. "It is extremely gratifying that our efforts are being recognized and validated by a third party expert. Dow is committed to the highest standards of corporate governance, and the Company, along with its Board of Directors, has a long history of adopting strong practices and transparency."

GMI ratings provide institutional investors an objective way of assessing corporate governance risk as well as governance leaders in their portfolios. The criteria used to rate companies is based on an appraisal of best practices in corporate governance, statistical analysis, empirical research, stock exchange listing requirements and model corporate governance codes.

About Dow
With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

OLD - Dow Chemical Company

OLD - Dow Chemical Company

With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.