INTERIM REPORT, JANUARY 1 – JUNE 30, 2006

• Net sales increased to SEK 23,465 M (21,102). • Profit after financial items improved to SEK 629 M (525). • Net profit for the period amounted to SEK 446 M (378). • Earnings per share after dilution amounted to SEK 4.13 (3.49).

If you have any questions, please contact: Financial Director Ann-Sofie Danielsson (Tel: +46 8 585 517 17, or +46 70 674 07 20) Senior Vice President Corporate Communications Annica Gerentz (Tel: +46 8 585 522 04, or +46 70 398 42 09).