Statement re Fitch Upgrade

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC
                  

                       Fitch Upgrades Smurfit Kappa Group

                                   SKG.I SKG.L

Smurfit Kappa Group plc ('SKG' or the 'Group'), one of the world's largest
integrated manufacturers of paper-based packaging products with operations in
Europe and Latin America, notes today's press release by Fitch Ratings and
welcomes the upgrade of its debt rating to 'BB'.

Ian Curley, Group Chief Financial Officer commented, 'We welcome today's upgrade
by Fitch Ratings. For 2007, SKG delivered EBITDA growth within the range of
expectations set at IPO, industry leading margins and exceeded both its leverage
and synergy objectives.'

About Smurfit Kappa Group

Smurfit Kappa Group is a world leader in paper-based packaging with operations
in Europe and Latin America.

Smurfit Kappa Group operates in 22 countries in Europe and is the European
leader in containerboard, solid board, corrugated and solid board packaging and
has a key position in several other packaging and paper market segments,
including graphic board, sack paper and paper sacks. Smurfit Kappa Group also
has a growing presence in Eastern Europe. Smurfit Kappa Group operates in 9
countries in Latin America and is the only pan-regional operator.

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Contacts                                                                              Information

Smurfit Kappa Group                               [phone]          Beech Hill, Clonskeagh
                                                                                Dublin 4, Ireland
K Capital Source                                  [phone]              Ph [phone]
                                                                  [e-mail]
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