China constructing largest IT hub

Seeking to give a stiff challenge to India’s booming software industry, China has started constructing the world’s largest software and IT services hub in Dalian, a coastal city in Northeast China.

“Stretching over 40 kilometres, we’ll build Lushun South Road into not only China’s Silicon Valley, but the world’s leading IT city with a first-class environment,” Mayor of Dalian, Xia Deren said at the launch ceremony.

The development of the Dalian Tiandi Software Hub will involve a total investment of 15 billion yuan from Hong Kong-based Shui On Group and Dalian-based Yida Group.

The city plans to increase its software exports almost eight-fold to $3.5 billion by 2012. In 2006, Dalian exported $450 million worth of software products and IT services, accounting for almost one-third of the country’s software outsourcing revenue.

The software hub is a mixed project comprising office buildings, residential and commercial properties, as well as recreational and educational facilities, chairman of Shui On Group, Vincent Lo said

PTI