Botnia's Fray Bentos pulp mill reaches full production in record time

METSA, Finland, April 29, 2008 (Press Release) - Botnia's pulp mill in Fray Bentos has reached its nominal production capacity in only 145 days from start-up. This is a new world record in pulp production, the last two best marks being 171 and 174 days achieved by other mills of similar production technology and capacity. The nominal production capacity was achieved on a thirty-day rolling average basis.

Thanks to the best available technology, design and highly qualified teamwork, Botnia's Fray Bentos mill achieved excellent performance during start-up both in production and in environmental care. To date, the mill has produced 377,000 tons of pulp, of which 70% is exported to Europe and 30% to Asia.

The environmental performance of the mill during the start-up period has exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, Botnia was committed to use Best Available Techniques (BAT). Thanks to this the mill has during the start-up phase complied with the strictest standards and is today one of the best mills in the world in environmental performance.

"Already during the very first months, the environmental indicators have been well below the permit limits set by the National Environmental authorities (DINAMA) and those established by the European Union", stated Gervasio González, Manager of Environment at Botnia's mill in Fray Bentos. "As the mill has been performing very well already during the start-up phase, we can expect an excellent performance in the future as we continue fine-tuning our processes", he concludes.

"We are all proud of achieving this new record. It has been possible due to the outstanding team of professionals working at the mill", says Sami Saarela, Mill Manager. "I have participated at several mill start-ups and can say that this was really the best one. The successful start-up shows that the mill has excellent design and best available technology and that the team of highly qualified professionals ensure the smooth running of all processes", Saarela adds.