Preparation for the Fifth China Hi-Tech Fair (CHTF) were proceeding well, the organizing committee said Thursday as Shenzhen was getting ready for the opening of the annual event Sunday (October 12th).

The CHTF, which highlights Shenzhen's efforts to become a high-tech giant, has become a platform for domestic and foreign enterprises seeking exchange and cooperation in various high-tech projects since it was launched in 1999.

This year's fair (2003) will be held from Sunday (October 12th) to next Friday (October 17th).

So far, more than 1,000 investors from home and abroad have confirmed their registrations.

Liu Minghui, director of the China Hi-Tech Transfer Center, said this year's event would have a number of new features.

Prominence will be given to the city's high-tech achievements, which include digital TV, 3G industrial chain and the software industry.

The Fifth CHTF will be a more international event with the number of foreign participants registered at a record high.

So far, exhibitors from some 42 countries and regions have confirmed their registrations and 18 foreign government delegations and 27 multinational firms will attend.

The science ministers' seminar on the role of government in the development of science and technology will see the presence of high-ranking leaders from countries including China, Britain, Egypt, Russia and the United States.

Liu said a highlight of this year's fair would be the offering of menu services tailored to the specific needs of participants, including online inquiries as well as a brochure containing the schedule of the main activities.

Another highlight will be the opening ceremony along with a special exhibition of the achievements of previous high-tech fairs.

"To celebrate the fifth anniversary of CHTF, an opening ceremony, grander than previous years, has been planned this year," Liu said.

The founding members of CHTF and representatives of previous organizing committees will attend a forum during the fair.

For the first time, the fair will introduce the system of news spokespersons for media to better cover the event, Liu said.

One of the CHTF's highlights, the Overseas Listing Consultation Program, will be held for the second time this year, involving 11 leading stock exchanges from home and abroad.

Editor: Catherine