NEW LODGING IN EL TIGRE

Hampton Inn, part of the Hilton Hotel Group, has just opened in the oil town of EL TIGRE,
Anzoátegui. Eurobuilding Prime Group is responsible for launching the Hampton chain in Venezuela
and plans to open five hotels over the next three years in Maiquetía, Mérida, Maracay, Puerto Píritu
and Caracas. The chain already has almost 1,100 hotels around the globe and on average opens a
new one every three days.

The EL TIGRE project cost about $ 10 million, and value minded travelers will find 81 comfortable,
well equipped rooms and suites that meet or exceed international standards. A 100%Satisfaction
Guaranteed program promises high quality accommodations, friendly efficient service, and clean,
comfortable surroundings – or the guest stay is free. Because of its location, the majority of
Hampton Inn El Tigre clients come from PDVSA, Schlumberger, BP, and other oil companies.

Anzoátegui Governor David De Lima presided over the grand opening attended by more than 200
people, 100 of whom flew in from Caracas expressly for the event.

NEW PROTINAL PROAGRO VP

Ernesto Vogeler became the new vice president of PROTINAL PROAGRO as of March 1. Prior to
assuming, this position Vogeler acted as director of the company since 1997. He will now report
directly to Marty Reagan, president of Ag Processing Inc. (AGP), the world´s largest soy processing
cooperative. Vogeler replaces Joe Meyer, group vice president of Ag Processing Inc. , who retires
after working 38 years in industrial farming.