CeBIT Asia 2002, the continent's largest exposition of information technologies, has attracted 550 telecommunication enterprises and service providers from 25 countries and regions worldwide including big names such as Intel, Philips, Samsung, Pioneer and National.

Statistics show China's information industry has been growing at an annual rate of 20 percent in recent years and is a pillar of the national economy.

By the end of July 2002, the number of fixed and mobile telephone users totaled 380 million, ranking first worldwide, and 40 million people have Internet access.

It is estimated that, by 2005, Chinese citizens will own 80 million computers, 300 million mobile phones and 260 million fixed telephones. It is further estimated that by 2005, some 200 million people will enjoy Internet access and cable TV.

The telecommunications industry is becoming China's new economic growth focal point, according to Lou Qinjian, vice minister of Information Industries.

Official statistics show the country's information export industry totaled US$65 billion in 2001, accounting for 24 percent of the national export total.

Organizers say global telecommunications giants have brought the most advanced technologies and products and have experimented with several marketing techniques at CeBIT Asia 2002 as part of an overall strategy to explore the Chinese market.

CeBIT Asia was held for the first time in Shanghai in 2001, attracting 509 telecommunications enterprises and some 25,000 members of the public. This year's four-day exposition is expected to lure more than 50,000 visitors, according to the organizers.

(China Daily September 3, 2002)