The opening ceremony for the new factory, which was built at the existing DSM NeoResins+ production site in Waalwijk, was performed by Feike Sijbesma, CEO of DSM, together with Hans Wijers, CEO of AkzoNobel. DSM Resins, the business group that includes DSM NeoResins+, is one of AkzoNobel's key suppliers of innovative resins used in a broad range of AkzoNobel's coatings for a variety of end-markets.

Waterborne acrylic resins manufactured by DSM NeoResins+ have far less environmental impact and are much more painter friendly than traditional solvent-based resins while offering high performance and durability standards. The waterborne acrylic resins, which comply with current and future legislation regarding volatile organic compounds (VOC), are used in coatings for joinery, decorative and industrial wood applications as well as in the graphic arts industry.

"This expansion is an important milestone for DSM NeoResins+ as a trusted, innovative partner for the coatings industry. That an important partner and highly valued customer such as AkzoNobel agreed to open this facility underlines this. Even though we find ourselves in the midst of an economic downturn, we continue our strategic commitment to innovation and sustainability as highlighted by this important expansion," Feike Sijbesma, Chairman of the DSM Managing Board said.

"AkzoNobel and DSM Resins have been valued partners for a long time. This partnership helps us to supply customers with new, innovative coatings that are more environmentally and painter friendly than traditional solvent-based coatings," Hans Wijers, Chief Executive Officer of AkzoNobel said.

During the ceremony both CEOs stressed the importance of innovation and collaboration between companies, as illustrated today by DSM and AkzoNobel. "It is of vital importance for a country such as the Netherlands to remain focused on innovation and sustainability, especially in the current economic climate. This will ensure an improved competitive position for the country in the future," Sijbesma and Wijers jointly said.

Waterborne acrylic resins use water as a carrier instead of oil-based solvents. Solvent-based paints contain a variety of VOC that are harmful to the environment and painters. New and upcoming environmental regulations, in both Europe and North America, are driving demand for low-VOC and zero-VOC coatings which are durable, cost-effective and less harmful to both the environment and painters. DSM NeoResins+ has been an early adapter to the new regulations, and has worked on building a portfolio of products that meet future requirements today, without compromising on performance.

DSM NeoResins+ is also taking up its leadership role in markets such as China where solvent-borne resins are still commonly used to convince governments to apply stricter regulations to enable a switch to more environmental friendly waterborne resins.

DSM NeoResins+

DSM NeoResins+ is a leading, committed, global supplier of innovative specialty resins, specialized in the development and manufacturing of resins that are focused on fulfilling the needs of the coatings and graphic arts industries. DSM NeoResins+ has 1,250 employees and operates seven manufacturing sites across the world. DSM NeoResins+ is committed to a strong focus on customer needs and has five application and research & technology centers, which are further supported by three customer service centers. The business also includes the in 2008 acquired company DSM NeoSol based in Providence (United States). DSM NeoResins+ is headquartered in Waalwijk (Netherlands).

DSM - the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences Company

Royal DSM N.V. creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences that contribute to the quality of life. DSM's products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and more enjoyable way of life. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrical and electronics, life protection and housing. DSM has annual net sales of EUR 9.3 billion and employs some 23,500 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations on five continents. DSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information: www.dsm.com

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Forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of DSM and information currently available to the company. The statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and therefore DSM does not guarantee that its expectations will be realized. Furthermore, DSM has no obligation to update the statements contained in this press release.

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