New York, New York, USA 05 June 2018 -- Mercer International Inc. (Nasdaq: MERC, TSX: MERC.U) (the "Company") today announced that it has determined to proceed with a Phase II expansion and optimization project at its Friesau sawmill (the "Friesau Facility"). The project is designed to, among other things:

 increase annual lumber production capacity at the Friesau Facility by approximately 200 million board feet to an aggregate of approximately 750 million board feet on a continuous operating basis, through the addition of two new sorting lines and the completion of expansions to existing sorting lines;

 improve production grade capabilities by modifying primary breakdown lines to allow for expanded sorting capabilities, including the processing of shorter and more variable log grades; and

 improve efficiencies at the Friesau Facility, including by increasing production speeds and lowering personnel costs.

The Company currently estimates that capital expenditures will total approximately €37.5 million (approximately US$41.6 million) and that the project will be completed in or about the second quarter of 2020. The project is in addition to the Company's previously announced Phase I project at the Friesau Facility, involving the installation of a new planer line.

David M. Gandossi, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, stated: "We are pleased to announce this Phase II expansion and optimization at our Friesau Facility, which we believe furthers our strategic expansion into lumber production. Based on the estimated cost and timing of the project, we believe this is a high-return project and an excellent opportunity to enhance shareholder value. The expansion of annual production capacity by 200 million board feet is roughly equivalent to the size of a new sawmill in the U.S. South. We look forward to working with our team at the Friesau Facility to implement this project."

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

* We are looking for a Production Shift Team Leader to maintain high standards, plus ensure safety policies and regulations for a company located close to Chicago's Midway Airport. If you are experienced team leader who has a four-year degree in an engineering/technical field (paper science degree preferred, and experience in recycled linerboard or corrugating medium paper mills is a plus), we are looking for someone like you! If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* A family owned and operated corrugated packaging solutions company in Illinois is looking for an experienced Maintenance Technician to maintain production and quality by ensuring operation of machinery and mechanical equipment. Relocation and other perks are available to the right candidate who is committed to working third shift. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* Are you an experienced Maintenance Mechanic and would like to work for a family owned and operated corrugated packaging solutions company that invests in the best equipment and technology? If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* A leading company in the corrugated solutions packaging business is looking for a experienced Electrician. The right candidate will possess the following skills: electrical; hydraulic; automatic drives (basic component machines 122 to 440 bolts). If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* An expanding company is looking for a Corporate Industrial Electro-Mechanical Engineer near Allentown, PA. Relocation is available. Do you have a storied list of unique electrical and mechanical engineering skills you're ready to take to the next level? Do you envision yourself in a corporate-level leadership role that your experience finally merits? And do you relish any opportunity to troubleshoot and solve real-time problems, all while designing and installing new services and systems that will not only ensure safety, but also turn a potentially hazardous work environment into a continuously thriving one? If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

* An expanding company is looking for hands-on Electro Mechanical Maintenance Techs in Conyers, Georgia. Preference will be given to candidates with higher education and additional certificates or training. You must be able to work any shift. Pay is negotiable with excellent perks and benefits. Relocation assistance is available to the right candidate. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412.

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