Rio, January 13, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - During the last quarter of last year, Aracruz's cellulose production totalled 485 thousand tons, which represents a 43% increase over the previous year's for the same period. Cellulose sales in the quarter came to 467 thousand tons.

In the fiscal year ending in 2002, total production was 1.656 million tons, 30% more than in the previous year. Annual sales came to 1.585 million tons, representing 22% growth. Standing out among the major markets are Europe (40%), North America (39%), and Asia (18%).

The company's net earnings in 2002 were R$ 2.034 billion, 50% more than the R$ 1.351 billion registered in 2001. (DAS)