International Business

Kodak May Take Stake in Chinese Film Firms: Eastman Kodak Co. is negotiating to buy controlling stakes in China’s three biggest makers of photographic film, executives at two of the companies said. The move would allow the Rochester, N.Y.-based photo giant to bypass China’s high import duties and gain broader distribution. The Chinese film and photographic paper manufacturers would gain much-needed capital to expand plants and upgrade equipment, executives said. Kodak spokesman Charlie Smith said the company has been in discussions with Chinese executives, but he declined to disclose the substance of the talks.