FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tokyo, June 9, 2008 --- Japan Tobacco Inc. (JT) (TSE: 2914) announced today the launch of ''Camel Nutty Lights Box'' with sales beginning in Fukuoka Prefecture in July 2008. The new ''D-spec(*1)'' product was developed in response to consumer demand for a non-menthol variation of the popular ''Camel Menthol Box.''

The Camel brand(*2) was first introduced in the United States in 1913, and was the first to adopt the ''American blend'' method, which has become the most widely used method of tobacco blending for cigarettes. JT holds the rights to the Camel brand outside of the Unites States through the acquisition of R.J. Reynolds International(*3) in 1999. Since then, JTI, JT's international tobacco business subsidiary, has continued wide-range efforts to strengthen Camel's brand equity, such as through the rejuvenation of the brand with the introduction of a new, globally consistent taste and packaging design in 2002. Camel remains a powerful international brand, ranking fifth(*4) in sales volume worldwide.

With the aim to increase its brand equity in the Japan's domestic market, where Camel has not yet gained a substantial market share, JT introduced ''Camel Menthol Box'' nationwide in March 2007, soon after a successful test marketing phase. ''Camel Menthol Box,'' which is also a ''D-spec'' product, was well received in Japan, and its popularity led to JT's decision to introduce ''Camel Nutty Lights Box,'' as a non-menthol alternative for ''Camel Menthol Box.''

As of March 31, 2008, ''D-spec'' products had grown to account for 4.59 percent of Japan's domestic market share, increasing 0.55 percentage points over the previous year. The decision to launch ''Camel Nutty Lights Box'' is in line with JT's strategy to develop high value-added products, such as products utilizing its original ''D-spec'' technology, which the company aims to expand through its vast distribution channels in Japan. Following the newest introduction, a total of 20 ''D-spec'' products will be available in Japan.


(*1) ''D-spec'' reduced odor products (known as Less Smoke Smell products abroad) incorporate the company's odor reducing technology developed in response to customer demand for the reduction in the unpleasant smell of smoke.
(*2) Camel was introduced by R.J. Reynolds in the United States.
(*3) JT International was formed following JT's acquisition of R.J. Reynolds International.
(*4) Source: The Maxwell Report ''Top World Brands'' in 2006.

Profile of Camel Nutty Lights Box

Price:	320yen / 20 cigarettes
Tar / Nicotine:	6mg / 0.5mg
Sales Areas:	Fukuoka Prefecture