Trading Statement

Tate & Lyle PLC
                  

24 September 2003 - Tate & Lyle PLC

Trading Update

In line with its regular practice, Tate & Lyle issues the following trading
update prior to meeting with stockbrokers' analysts and entering its closed
period for interim results to 30 September 2003. The interim results will be
announced on 6 November 2003.

Based upon the results for the five months to August 2003, profit before tax and
exceptional items has been in line with internal expectations we set at the
beginning of the financial year. Our major business units have all traded at or
around plan levels.

Results from the citric acid production line have improved following the
acceleration of the closure of the Mexican plant in July 2003 and a small
increase in spot selling prices. Trading in the last three months has been at
the break-even level.

The actuarial review of the UK pension fund at 31 March 2003 has not yet been
finalised but it is anticipated that there will be a small deficit which will
result in a modest additional charge to profit.

The dry weather in Europe has resulted in both wheat and maize price increases
in Europe the effect of which we intend to mitigate with selling price increases
in the second half.

The first half last year benefited from strong trading and unusual interest
income. As indicated in the announcement of the results for the year to March
2003, we expect a more even split of profits in the current financial year with
the first half weaker and the second half stronger than in the previous year.