Akzo Nobel expanding coatings activities in the Czech Republic

- Akzo Nobel, the world’s biggest coatings company, is continuing to build its position in Central Europe having signed an agreement to acquire Balakom a.s., one of the leading paint companies in the Czech Republic. Based in Opava in the Czech Republic, the purchase of Balakom - which was established in 1907 - will substantially increase Akzo Nobel’s domestic market share and provide a solid base for further expansion. “Strengthening the presence of our coatings activities in Central Europe is a key element of the company’s global expansion strategy and this deal makes sound business sense on a number of levels,” explained Akzo Nobel CEO Hans Wijers, who is also the Board member responsible for Coatings. “Balakom is a respected company with a long and proud history in the coatings industry and its sound technological base has resulted in the development of a number of well known brands,” he continued. “There is an obvious strategic fit which will provide the necessary momentum for us to grow our Decorative Coatings business in what is a highly attractive region.” Added Christian Seidler, Balakom’s General Manager: “We are excited about joining the world’s largest coatings supplier. Balakom has a comprehensive responsible care program and in that respect we will also fit nicely into Akzo Nobel.” Balakom - which has 183 employees - produces paints, varnishes, enamels and lacquers, as well as powder coatings. Sales, which are mainly in the domestic market, totaled EUR 16 million in 2005. The transaction - for which regulatory approvals are being sought - represents the latest in a series of deals involving Akzo Nobel Decorative Coatings, with acquisition agreements having also been signed in the Ukraine, China, Switzerland and Germany during recent months. Akzo Nobel has also made an offer to acquire Sico Inc., Canada’s leading coatings company. Akzo Nobel – Global Leader in Coatings Akzo Nobel is the world’s largest coatings manufacturer. The company achieved global sales in coatings of EUR 5.56 billion in 2005 and command leading market positions in nearly all its coatings businesses. Akzo Nobel develops, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality products and services for most coatings market segments. The company’s extensive portfolio includes decorative paints; products for industrial applications such as powder, wood, coil and specialty coatings; automotive refinishes; marine, protective and aerospace coatings; and coatings related products such as wood and building adhesives. Brands include global and household names such as Crown®, International®, Sikkens®, Interpon®, Levis® and Sadolin®. --- Not for publication – for more information Akzo Nobel nv Corporate Media Relations, tel. +31 26 366 43 43 Contact: Holger Ebbighausen Note for the editor Akzo Nobel is a Global Fortune 500 company and is listed on both the Euronext Amsterdam and NASDAQ stock exchanges. It is also included on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes and FTSE4Good Index. Based in the Netherlands, we are a multicultural organization serving customers throughout the world with human and animal healthcare products, coatings, and chemicals. We employ around 61,500 people and conduct our activities in four segments − human and animal health, coatings and chemicals − subdivided into 13 business units, with operating subsidiaries in more than 80 countries. Consolidated revenues for 2005 totaled EUR 13.0 billion. The financial results for the second quarter will be published on July 20, 2006. Internet: www.akzonobel.com Safe Harbor Statement* This press release may contain statements which address such key issues as Akzo Nobel’s growth strategy, future financial results, market positions, product development, pharmaceutical products in the pipeline, and product approvals. Such statements should be carefully considered, and it should be understood that many factors could cause forecasted and actual results to differ from these statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, price fluctuations, currency fluctuations, progress of drug development, clinical testing and regulatory approval, developments in raw material and personnel costs, pensions, physical and environmental risks, legal issues, and legislative, fiscal, and other regulatory measures. Stated competitive positions are based on management estimates supported by information provided by specialized external agencies. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risk factors affecting our business please see our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, a copy of which can be found on the company’s corporate website www.akzonobel.com. The 2005 Annual Report on Form 20-F will be available at the end of the second quarter of 2006. * Pursuant to the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act 1995.