Trading Update

De La Rue PLC 16 February 2006 DE LA RUE PLC PRE CLOSE PERIOD TRADING UPDATE Prior to entering the close period for the year ended 25 March 2006 the Board of De La Rue plc today issues the following trading update: Trading since the half year has been strong throughout the Group, aided by the continued benefits of productivity initiatives and the strength of the US dollar. Within Security Paper and Print, banknote volumes in the second half have been stronger than anticipated and levels are now expected to exceed last year. In addition, favourable customer mix has led to an improvement in margins in both the banknote and banknote paper activities. The division has also benefited from ongoing cost reduction and productivity initiatives. Consequently, operating profits are expected to be ahead of last year. Cash Systems has continued to benefit from earlier than anticipated progress on the manufacturing rationalisation programme outlined in December 2004, and the strength of the US Dollar. However, the first half of 2006/2007 will see the critical phase in the completion of this programme. Growth in the Original Equipment Manufacture (mechanisms for ATMs), particularly in the Asian market, and the Desktop Products businesses has been ahead of our expectations. Consequently, the Board now expects full year profit before tax, exceptional items and goodwill to be significantly ahead of 2004/2005 (on a comparable IFRS basis). De La Rue anticipates entering the new financial year with good visibility for the first half in Security Paper and Print. The Board therefore remains confident of the outlook for 2006/2007. -ends- 16 February 2006 For further information please contact: Stephen King Group Finance Director +44 (0) 1256 605307 Mark Fearon Head of Corporate Affairs +44 (0) 1256 605303 Richard Mountain Financial Dynamics +44 (0) 207 269 7291 Notes to Editors: 1. In 2004/2005, IFRS adjusted profit before tax, exceptional items and goodwill from continuing operations was £65.2m 2. De La Rue will announce its preliminary results on 24 May 2006. 3. De La Rue is the world's largest commercial security printer and papermaker, involved in the production of over 150 national currencies and a wide range of security documents such as travellers cheques and vouchers. The Company is a leading provider of cash handling equipment and software solutions to banks and retailers worldwide, helping them to reduce the cost of handling cash. Employing over 6,200 people across 31 countries, De La Rue is also pioneering new technologies worldwide in government identity solutions for secure passports, identity cards and driver's licences. For more information visit www.delarue.com This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

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